How to Elope: The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Elopement

So you’re thinking about eloping, and you have no idea how to actually elope?! You’ve come to the right spot. While an elopement may easily be associated with spontaneously heading to the courthouse to get married, the meaning of eloping has drastically changed throughout the years. Now elopements are intimate wedding ceremonies that usually involve just the couple or a small group of people to witness them tying the knot. Whoever couples decide to invite, elopements are meaningful and full of intent, skipping the 10+ tables and the hours taking selfies with a bunch of guests.

With the growing popularity of eloping also comes a lot of elopements that have evolved into “adventure elopements”, where couples travel to amazing places around the world to explore. Overall eloping involves far less planning, logistics, and expenses than a traditional wedding. However, that doesn’t mean couples don’t invest thought, preparation, and coordination into their elopement ceremony.

Whether you’re drawn to the idea of exchanging vows in a breathtaking destination, avoiding the stress of a traditional wedding, or simply focusing on your love story, eloping offers endless possibilities. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step you need to know about how to elope—from planning to legal considerations to making the day uniquely yours.

Step 1: Decide What Eloping Means to You

Photo by Nikki Rivera Photography

Eloping isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s about creating a day that reflects who you are as a couple. Start by envisioning your perfect day. Ask yourselves:

• Do you want a spontaneous elopement or a well-planned one?
• Will it just be the two of you, or will you invite close family and friends?
• What location fits your relationship best—mountains, beaches, forests, or a vibrant city?
• Are there traditions you want to incorporate?
• How flexible do you want your schedule to be?
• Is there a specific date or season that means something to you?
• Will you celebrate later with a reception?

Your answers will shape the entire experience. Once you have a vision, everything else will fall into place.

Step 2: Pick the Perfect Location

Photo by  Wild Connections Photography

Your elopement location sets the tone for your elopement. Here are some options to consider:

Outdoor Elopements

• Mountains: Ideal for adventurous couples who love hiking.
• Beaches: Perfect for those who want a relaxed, serene ceremony.
• Forests and National Parks: Great for nature lovers looking for privacy and beauty.

Destination Elopements

• International: Iceland, Italy, and Bali are top choices for breathtaking scenery.
• U.S. Destinations: Hawaii, Colorado, and California offer diverse and stunning backdrops.
• Caribbean: Costa Rica, Puerto Rico, and Mexico offer a great beach escape.

Urban Elopements

• Cities: New York, Paris, or San Francisco provide iconic views and easy logistics.

Questions to Help You Decide:

• What scenery represents your relationship best?
• How far are you willing to travel?
• What time of year are you planning to elope?
• Are there legal requirements for your chosen location?
• Do you prefer a private or public setting?

Teaming up with a local elopement photographer can help you find hidden gems and plan for backup locations in case of weather changes.

Step 3: Set a Budget

Photo by Julia Goldberg Photography

Eloping is generally more affordable than a traditional wedding, but costs can add up depending on your plans. Here’s how to break it down:

• Travel Costs: Flights, accommodations, and transportation.
• Permits and Fees: These are required for many national parks and outdoor spaces.
• Photography/Videography: Worth investing in to capture your memories.
• Officiant Fees: Some locations require a licensed officiant.
• Attire, Hair, and Makeup: Even simple elopements deserve a special look.

Decide on a budget and prioritize what matters most to you. For many couples, photography tops the list because it’s the one thing you’ll have to remember the day.

Step 4: Check Legal Requirements

Photo by Rachel Beckwith Photography

Eloping still requires some paperwork and preparation to make it official. Key legal considerations include:

• Marriage Licenses: Research requirements based on your elopement location. Some places have waiting periods or documentation needs.
• Permits: Outdoor locations, especially national parks, often require special use permits.
• Officiant Rules: Some states like Colorado and California allow self-solemnization, meaning you don’t need an officiant.

If traveling abroad, check how marriage laws differ. In some cases, it’s easier to legally marry at home and hold a symbolic ceremony at your destination.

Our Wandering Weddings members are experts in these requirements, so we highly recommend teaming up with one of them. 

Some couples become worried about how to elope in a different state, so we are here to say that it can be easier to officially get married and obtain your license at a city hall in your own city. After you obtain your marriage license, you can hold a commitment ceremony at your wedding destination without stressing about the logistics of it all. 

Step 5: Hire Key Vendors

Photo by Sheena Shahangian Photography LLC

Even the simplest elopements benefit from a few essential vendors:

• Photographer/Videographer: To capture your adventure from your day.
• Hair and Makeup Artist: Helps you feel your best.
• Florist: Adds beauty with bouquets or boutonnieres.
• Officiant: Ensures your ceremony is legally binding (unless you’re self-solemnizing).
• Planner: Especially useful for destination elopements or unique setups.

Our elopement packages are created with our couples in mind to be go-to resources. These packages are a great step-by-step guide to planning your small wedding at a specific location you’re interested in. Our elopement packages also contain reliable vendors who are experienced in planning and documenting elopements in that area. 

Step 6: Create Your Elopement Timeline

Photo by  Meagan Lawler Photography

A well-thought-out elopement timeline will help your day run smoothly while allowing for spontaneity. Consider:

Some ideas include:

• First Look: If you love the idea of seeing each other for the first time in your wedding attire, a first look can be a sweet and emotional way to kick off the day.
• Ceremony: Your elopement ceremony can be as formal or casual as you want. You can exchange vows privately, include religious prayers or traditions, or even invite a few close friends or family members.
• Adventure: If you’re eloping in a scenic location, plan a hike, boat ride, or scenic drive to soak in the surroundings and take beautiful photos.
• Celebratory Meal: Whether you have a romantic picnic, stop at a local restaurant, or even bring a cake to share, take time to celebrate after the ceremony.

Step 7: Consider the Details: Attire, Accommodations, and Activities

Photo by Wild Vows

When planning your elopement, don’t forget to consider the finer details that will make your day unique. Choose attire that suits your style and location—whether it’s a flowing gown, hiking boots, or something traditional. Plan your accommodations in advance, especially if you’re traveling to a popular destination. Think about activities to incorporate, such as a scenic hike, a romantic dinner, or even an adventurous experience like skydiving or a hot air balloon ride.

Detail Questions to Consider:

• What will the weather be like on your elopement day? Do you need extra layers or breathable fabrics?
• How formal or casual do you want your attire to be?
• Are you comfortable wearing this attire for the duration of the day, especially if you’ll be hiking or exploring the area?

Questions to Consider for your Accommodation:

• How close do you want to be to your ceremony location to avoid long travel times on the day of the elopement?
• Are there unique accommodations that can add to the experience, like a treehouse, yurt, or a secluded mountain cabin?
• Does the accommodation offer amenities like a hot tub, fireplace, or private deck where we can unwind after the ceremony?

Questions to Consider for Activities:

• What do you enjoy doing together that would make your wedding day more memorable? (e.g., hiking, kayaking, exploring a new city, etc.)
• Do you want to include an adventurous activity like a hot air balloon ride, horseback riding, or a helicopter tour for a unique twist?
• Would you prefer a quiet, intimate activity, such as a private dinner, stargazing, or a relaxing soak in a hot spring?

By asking yourselves these questions, you can create an elopement day that’s not only about the ceremony but also reflects who you are as a couple—whether that’s exploring new terrain, staying in a cozy cabin, or wearing hiking boots under your wedding dress!

Step 8: Create a Cash Fund

Photo by Katie Dawn Photo

If you’re eloping and skipping the traditional wedding gift registry, consider setting up a cash fund to help cover your elopement costs or fund your honeymoon. Many couples use cash registry websites where friends and family can contribute to specific experiences or expenses. Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Honeymoon Fund: Request contributions to your post-elopement honeymoon, whether it’s for flights, accommodations, or unique experiences.
• Adventure Fund: If you’re planning an adventure elopement, you can ask guests to contribute to activities like hiking tours, outdoor experiences, or travel gear.
• Elopement Costs: Some couples set up funds to help cover the costs of the elopement itself—whether it’s for a photographer, officiant, or accommodations at a destination.

Step 9: Celebrate Your Way

Photo by Sheryl Anne Photography

Eloping doesn’t mean skipping the celebration. Consider:

Post-Elopement Parties: Host a casual gathering or dinner with loved ones.

Adventure Honeymoons: Continue the adventure with a trip to your dream destination.

Announce Your Elopement: Share the news with friends and family through photos, videos, or a special announcement.

Final Thoughts: Eloping is What You Make It

Photo by Amy Galbraith Photography

Eloping is all about crafting a day that reflects your love story and values. Whether it’s just the two of you or a small group of loved ones, focus on the experience and embrace the flexibility that comes with elopements. From the location to the activities to how you announce it afterward, elopements offer a personalized, stress-free way to get married. Follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a day that’s unforgettable.

Photo by Rachel Beckwith Photography