An elopement timeline

You did it! You decided to elope, and now that the decision is made you can focus on the things that really mater. Cut out the stress of handling a large wedding, organizing vendors and worry about if you’re going to enjoy the day.  I know this feeling, because it was what I did as well. When I made this decision, I kind of winged it- all we really knew is that we only wanted our immediate family there, to make them a part of the experience, and to do it somewhere in the mountains. But it was so exciting! We were able to shift to what mattered most to us, getting married. 

So now that you’ve made the choice to elope, time to consider just what kind of elopement you want. Do you want to have an intimate adventure elopement, incorporating some adventure or destination, and then on another day, throw a big ass party? Do you want to have the 10-20 people who mean the most to you there and celebrate something intimately with them by your side? There is no wrong choice here. You can make it whatever you want. 

1- Get a Marriage License

Every state is going to have different rules regarding this process. Make sure to plan ahead for it, as sometimes it is a bit tedious. Along this line, consider if you require witnesses/an officiant to seal the deal on your day! These particulars require brief google searching, and I am more than happy to help here also if you’re feeling lost!

2- Choose a date and location

This part can be fun! When considering the ‘when’ of your dream elopement, other factors to consider are ‘where’ and ‘with whom’. The season, hemisphere, time of day and choice of entourage all impact this choice so consider them as well. If you’re flexible on your day, make sure to check in with your photographer’s schedule to arrive on a good day.  

As a side, I really enjoy this part of planning! If you have a location in mind, especially if it’s international or involving a National Park some of the caveats to reserving dates are tricky. I am here as a resource and listener for this process, and have some great inspiration. 

3- Get ready for your adventure 

The best part! Packing for your elopement all depends on your vision, so start by keeping a list of things you may need on the day of. Don’t worry- when it comes to hiking, traveling and adventuring Im pretty comfortable so I too will have backups and extra trail mix for when the time comes. 

This is going to be beautiful, come rain or shine. Its your wedding after all, and eloping I think, is the greatest decision you as a couple can make.