Overwhelmed by options? Learn how to choose the perfect elopement location that fits your vibe, vision, and values—with tips from a destination elopement photographer.

✨ The Location Sets the Tone

You’ve decided to elope—hell yes!
Now comes the biggest question: Where?

Choosing your perfect elopement location is about so much more than a pretty backdrop. It sets the tone, vibe, and pace of your entire day. Whether you’re dreaming of misty mountain peaks, an epic coastline, a quiet forest, or a cozy Airbnb in the middle of nowhere, the location is what helps turns “just another Tuesday” into the best day of your life.

But with so many breathtaking places out there, how do you actually choose?

As a destination elopement photographer who’s helped couples elope everywhere from Iceland to Alaska to the Colorado backcountry, I’ve got you. Let’s break it down.

1. Start with the Feeling

Before diving into maps or Pinterest boards, ask yourself this:

👉 How do I want to feel on my elopement day?

• Wild and free?
• Cozy and connected?
• Adventurous and awe-struck?
• Luxurious and intentional?

Let the emotion lead the two of you, and really let this decision be a joint one. This will naturally start to narrow down whether you’re leaning toward a hike-in mountain vista, a cliffside ceremony by the sea, or a warm cabin in the woods. Your perfect elopement location is out there – lets go find it.

Check out this article by Junebug where Faith and Zach opted for the best of both worlds in Seward, Alaska.

✨ Pro tip: Write down 3–5 words that describe your ideal day. Use these as a filter when looking at locations. And if you’re words are a little bit different, see if you can combine the two (I’m almost certain it’s possible!)

Of the next 2 bullet points to consider, I often tell couples that you can find 2/3 following pretty easily. Accessibility. Privacy. Views. So for example you can find something super accessible and beautiful, but the privacy levels may be quite low. Keep reading for more examples of how to choose the perfect location for your elopement.

2. Consider Accessibility and Effort Level

Not all stunning views require a 10-mile hike, but insta famous spots will *almost always* be busy.

Ask yourself:

• Do we want a hike-in spot, or something drive-up accessible?
• Will we be bringing guests (and do they have mobility needs)?
• Will we be in wedding attire? Hiking boots or heels?

Balance your dream vibes with your comfort level. I promise we can find somewhere epic and doable.

*if you choose a location that’s incredibly popular, like Reynisfjara beach in Iceland, lets opt for sunrise or late late once the crowds have diminished.

3. Think About Privacy and Popularity

Nothing kills the intimacy of your vows like 20 tourists with GoPros standing nearby.

If privacy is important to you, we’ll want to:

• Avoid tourist hotspots during peak hours
• Consider sunrise (trust me, it’s worth it)
• Explore lesser-known trails or hidden gems

Some couples are cool with a few people around, while others want total seclusion. Your comfort matters. Another great option when choosing your perfect elopement location is to consider an airbnb for your vows, and then we can scoot off somewhere epic for photos. That way privacy is ensured. Read more about the airbnb elopement route here!

4. Factor in Weather and Seasonality

The same spot can look completely different in July vs. October.

When choosing your location, research:

• Typical weather patterns
• Daylight hours
• Road closures or trail access
• When crowds peak (hello, fall colors)

For example, Iceland is lush and green in July, moody and magical in October, and snowy and dark in February. What vibe are you going for?

5. Check the Legal Stuff: Permits + Marriage Laws

You’d be surprised how many beautiful outdoor spots require permits or have restrictions. Before you get too attached to a location, check:

• Do we need a ceremony permit?
• Are there group size limits?
• Are photographers allowed?
• Can we legally get married there, or should we do paperwork at home?

✨ Don’t stress—I help my couples navigate this part all the time.

6. Let Your Photographer Help (Seriously)

You don’t have to figure this out alone. I’ve spent years location scouting, hiking trails, and researching dreamy destinations. When we work together, I’ll help you:

• Narrow down location types
• Choose the best lighting + timing
• Handle permits and weather plans
• Build a timeline around the experience you want

I’ve got you—from secret spots to Google Maps rabbit holes. For example this is my saved locations map from Iceland – every single dot and heart is a spot I think would be perfect for your elopement.

7. Bonus: Don’t Be Afraid to Dream Big

Never been to Alaska? That’s okay. Haven’t hiked a glacier before? Even better.

You don’t need to be a world traveler or an experienced outdoorsy couple to elope somewhere epic. With the right planning, we can create a day that feels adventurous and intentional—without overwhelm.

So dream big. I’ll help you make it happen. That’s always included in my bookings, at no extra cost.

💍 Why Elope in the First Place?

Let’s zoom out for a second—because choosing the perfect elopement location isn’t just about picking a pretty place. It’s about intentionally creating a wedding day that actually feels like you.

For so many couples I work with, eloping isn’t a last-minute decision or a “less-than” version of a traditional wedding—it’s a powerful, soul-centered choice. It’s about stripping away the expectations, the pressure, the performative parts of a big wedding… and choosing meaning over spectacle.

Maybe you’re not into being the center of attention.
Or you don’t want to spend $40k on a party that doesn’t reflect your relationship.
And you’re craving an experience that’s more about you two and less about seating charts and champagne towers.

When you elope, you get to:

• Prioritize your relationship instead of the guest list
• Design an experience that’s deeply personal (and actually fun)
• Slow down and connect instead of rushing through a jam-packed day
• Say your vows in a place that inspires you—not just one that was available
• Ditch the rules and embrace whatever lights you up

You could wake up slowly in a cabin, make coffee together, hike to a mountain overlook, read vows through happy tears, pop champagne, and end the night under the stars. That’s your whole wedding day—and it’s 100% yours.

I’ve seen couples cry happy tears just being able to breathe on their wedding day—free from pressure, free from judgment, and fully immersed in each other.

Because here’s the truth:
Eloping isn’t about running away from something. It’s about running toward something that feels more aligned.

And when you give yourself permission to do that—to intentionally craft a wedding experience that fits your love story—the result is something magical. Something sacred. Something that will stay with you forever.

That’s why where you choose to elope matters.
It’s not just a location—it’s the setting for your story.

💬 Ready to Choose Your Dream Elopement Location?

Whether you have a place in mind or you’re starting totally from scratch, I’m here to help you find the choose the perfect elopement location to say your vows.

Let’s find a location that feels like you.