Top 10 Elopement Planning Mistakes to Avoid

✨ You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know

Eloping is supposed to be simple, stress-free, and wildly true to who you are as a couple. But even small, intentional weddings come with a few planning challenges—especially if you’ve never done this before (and let’s be real—most people haven’t!).

As an elopement photographer who has captured ceremonies in Iceland, Alaska, Colorado, and beyond, I’ve seen firsthand how a few common mistakes can cause unnecessary stress—or worse, regret.

Here are the top elopement planning mistakes to avoid—and how to create a day that actually feels like you.

1. Planning It Like a Mini Wedding

You chose to elope for a reason—so don’t let your day become a smaller version of a traditional wedding. Elopements are about freedom and intention, not rigid timelines and guest lists that snowball out of control. Think of this as your chance to create a day that feels true to your relationship—not just shrink down something you didn’t even want in the first place.

It is a celebration and a commitment. It is just as valid, wonderful and meaningful as a wedding just in different shoes. I would encourage you to frame your perspective that way.

2. Skipping Permits and Legal Research

This is one of the most common elopement planning mistakes—assuming you don’t need permits or paperwork. Spoiler: you probably do.

Just because you’re heading into the wild or busting out the passport doesn’t mean you can skip the red tape. National parks, public lands, and even beaches often require permits for elopements. And if you’re eloping abroad? Research the legal requirements (or plan to do the paperwork at home). You don’t want to be scrambling at the last minute—or worse, getting fined. As your photographer, this is something I have a lot of experience with and can help guide you in the areas of legalities. However, I always encourage you to do your own research!

A note on international elopements – it is strongly encouraged to get legally married in the states, and then have a symbolic ceremony at your destination. The reason for this is the legal loopholes you have to jump through, that often require months of preparation. (think sending birth certificates, copies of passports etc) I have found that it’s simply more enjoyable a process to have a symbolic destination wedding!

3. Choosing the Wrong Time of Day

Lighting can make or break your photos and your experience. Harsh midday sun? Not ideal. Golden hour or sunrise? Chef’s kiss. Plus, in popular locations, early morning often means more privacy. Your photographer (hi, it’s me 👋🏼) can help you plan for the most flattering light and the most magical vibe.

A large part of this choice is going to be seasonal dependent – but that’s something that I always help you with too! Dont make the elopement mistake of having your ceremony when it will be rough on the eyes.

4. Overpacking the Timeline

Here’s your permission to slow. it. down. Your elopement should feel like a breath of fresh air, not a checklist.

This is your day—not a marathon. Avoid the elopement planning mistake of packing in too many stops, hikes, or locations. Build in time to breathe, snack, enjoy each other, and be spontaneous. Build in buffer time to snack, take it all in, or reroute if the weather shifts. Some of the best moments happen in the in-between. While destination elopements can be full of romance and that buzz of excitement, it is so important to be present and intentional about how the day is spent. Here’s an example of what a timeline could look like – from an actual eloping couple!

Even if that’s just packing a bottle of wine for your picnic and being in no rush to finish it – that’s what it’s all about anyway!

5. Underestimating Weather (and Not Having a Backup Plan)

Especially for destination elopements in places like Iceland or Alaska, the weather can change in five minutes. It is critical to understand the significance of preparation here! Bring layers, prep for wind/rain/sun, and work with someone who can pivot with a backup plan if needed. Pro tip: if you’re willing to dance in the rain, you’ll have some unforgettable photos.

Again, weather changes are largely seasonal and can vary depending on things like elevation changes or proximity to the ocean. I will always have contingency plans in place for elopements that take place in weather variant areas – this is a big part of what my services always include!

6. Not Communicating with Guests (or Inviting Too Many)

If you’re planning a guest-inclusive elopement, make sure everyone knows the plan—and the vibe. Elopements often involve hiking, early starts, or unstructured moments. Set expectations early and keep the group small to preserve the intimacy you’re craving. One of the biggest mistakes to avoid when planning your elopement is to over invite. Keep it small, intimate and if you must throw a big ass party later on to invite everyone then I am 100% on board with this!

7. Thinking You Don’t Need Full-Day Photography

A huge elopement planning mistake is assuming that a smaller wedding needs less photo coverage. But your elopement isn’t just a 10-minute ceremony—it’s a full, meaningful experience. In fact, because you’re choosing to do it your way, shouldn’t that inspire a full day (or two!) of intention and joy?

Getting ready. Reading vows. Exploring landscapes. Eating tacos. These are the moments that matter, and they deserve to be captured in full. Especially if you are considering an activity or excursion, these things take time and you want to build your experience around them!

8. Trying to Do Everything Yourself

You don’t need to go it alone. Elopement planning still requires thoughtfulness and logistics—especially in unfamiliar or remote places. And yes, eloping still requires planning. It’s not something that you can ‘just wing’

Let your vendor team help. I often assist with timelines, travel tips, weather backup plans, location scouting, and vendor recommendations. Lean on us—this is what we do! I also have worked with some incredible individuals over the years and so I come with suggestions and recommendations for people to help bring your vision to life!

While every elopement is different, I do highly encourage hiring some professionals for the things that matter most. Eating delicious food a favorite pastime? Lets get a private chef on the books. Worried that you wont get your hair right for the big day? Let me help you find a makeup and hair artist. These small choices really make a tremendous difference in the planning of your elopement day!

9. Skipping Personal Touches

Elopements don’t mean “bare bones.” Want to bring vow books, a picnic, a handfasting cord, or your dog? Do it. Your day should feel personal, meaningful, and uniquely yours.

The little things—like a handwritten note or your grandma’s earrings—are what make the day feel real.

Ive also had couples elect to take the theme of unity ceremony and make it their own. Peanut butter and jelly sandwhich unity ceremony?? Sign me up!

10. Not Trusting Your Gut

Last but not least: trust yourself. There’s no one-size-fits-all for elopements. If something doesn’t feel right—a vendor, a tradition, a location—don’t force it. One of the biggest elopement planning mistakes is to be overly influenced, and not listen to what you know is best.

You have full permission to elope your way. Your day should feel like you. I’m here to make sure that the photos reflect that, and capture you in all the moments on your elopement day!

💬 Ready to Start Planning?

I help couples craft elopements that are wildly true to who they are—whether that’s hiking through Iceland, exchanging vows at sunrise in Colorado, or cuddling up at an Airbnb on the Italian coast.

Want help creating your dream day (and avoiding the common pitfalls)?

Let me help you!