Elopement Packages

Maryland Elopement Packages

Maryland may not be at the top of your list of the “best places to elope”, but you really should consider adding it! Maryland is such an underrated and gorgeous state to explore during your elopement with smaller crowds and gorgeous elopement destinations. We are going to cover everything you need to know when putting together your Maryland elopement package or intimate wedding, including our top featured vendors to help you plan your wedding day.

This resource is long, so feel free to use the links below to jump to the most interesting section.

Elopement Vendors For Your Maryland Elopement
Where to Elope in Maryland
When to Elope in Maryland
Permits and Leave no Trace in Maryland
Maryland Marriage Licenses
Best Places to Stay Near Maryland

Elopement Vendors For Your Maryland Elopement

Photo by Evergreen Photo

Our top advice for couples planning an adventure elopement will be to always team up with an experienced elopement vendor. Our Maryland elopement vendors specialize in location scouting, packing list, elopement timelines, and so much more. An experienced elopement vendor is your number one resource when it comes to planning a stress-free elopement day. They even have secret locations that are more off the beaten path on their list to share with you. Just connect with one of them below and don’t forget to ask what they individually include in their Maryland elopement packages.

Team Up With an Elopement Vendor

Search Vendors

Where to Elope in Maryland

Sugarloaf Mountain

In Frederick Country, Maryland Sugarloaf Mountain is a popular spot to plan your elopement ceremony. This state park may need a wedding permit to hold your ceremony here, it’s best to contact the park and double-check with your vendor. Another thing to note is they do have specific areas designated for weddings, which have restrictions on wedding party size, setup, and such. This usually isn’t an issue for couples planning an elopement, but it’s something to consider if you’re planning a small wedding in Maryland here.

Kilgore Falls

Photo by Evergreen Photo

Kilgore Falls is another popular elopement destination with gorgeous waterfall views and whimsical scenery in Rock State Park. The waterfall itself is 17 feet high, which is Maryland’s second-highest waterfall!

Reservations are required to visit the Rocks State Park – Kilgore Falls and Falling Branch Area on weekends and holidays from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day. This is super important to keep in mind when planning your elopement here.

This area is very popular in late spring, summer, and early fall – even on weekdays. Patrons are encouraged to carpool and arrive early since the parking lot is pretty small.

Mount Vernon

Photo by Evergreen Photo

Maryland has a little bit of everything for every couple. Mount Vernon is a fun neighborhood near Baltimore filled with grand old mansions and boutique hotels. Even though it isn’t mountains and forests, it does have gorgeous greenery around, and it’s a great spot to have your elopement photographer document you both exploring shops and museums and sipping on a cup of coffee at a cute coffee shop.

Cascade Falls

In Catonsville, Maryland, there’s a trail that will take you to Cascade Falls. This trail is moderately challenging and will take about an hour to complete. This area is a popular spot for a lot of locals and tourists, so keep that in mind when planning your adventure. Patapsco Valley State Park also charges a fee to enter (per vehicle on weekdays and per person on weekends and holidays).

Underpass in Federal Hill

Photo by Evergreen Photo

Federal Hill Park in Baltimore, Maryland has a pretty cool underpass that makes for pretty picturesque and unique elopement photos. It’s also tucked away, so it’s a good place to escape for a fun photoshoot to celebrate your wedding day. The park itself has plenty of other spots to explore, but don’t forget to check out the underpass itself!

Rock State Park

There are plenty of gems in Rock State Park, but one of our favorites has to be the King and Queen Seats. The best part? It’s actually super close to Kilgore Falls if you want to plan to visit both! This is an EPIC cliff overlooking the park. This is probably one of the dreamiest views for any part of your wedding day. Be ready, however, to do some walking and climbing (so wear good shoes).

Fells Point

One of the oldest neighborhoods in Baltimore, Maryland. Fell’s Point is known for its pups, taverns, live music, and seafood! There’s a good Waterview point for you to exchange vows together, and then head off to explore. This is a great elopement spot for couples who want something that doesn’t involve hiking, but who also crave unique scenery.

Brookside Gardens

Another good elopement option for couples looking to plan an elopement in Maryland is Brookside Gardens. These are public gardens located within Wheaton Regional Park in Silver Springs. The gardens are open daily without a charge to explore, but just keep in mind that there are certain events they may be hosting that could interfere with your elopement plans. You will only need a special events permit if you have more than 35 people with you.

Glen Echo Park

When all else fails, just keep things simple and plan your elopement at a local park. Glen Echo Park is an arts and culture center in Maryland. There’s plenty of history and even a unique carousel to take photos at.

When to Elope in Maryland

Photo by Evergreen Photo

Even though Maryland isn’t a top spot to elope, crowds still are a thing! Think about the season you would prefer during your elopement. We personally love spring and fall for all the new blooms and fall foliage but try planning a weekday elopement versus a weekend wedding ceremony.

If you really want to beat the crowds, then opt for a sunrise elopement instead of a sunset elopement. Many people will stick around until sunset, but not many will wake up extra early to catch the sunrise. Ask your elopement photographer to see sample elopements during sunrise and ask about any lighting concerns during specific locations.

Permits and Leave no Trace in Maryland

Photo by Evergreen Photo

Like with anywhere you decide to elope, permits and regulations are subject to change at any time. A lot of locations in Maryland don’t require a special use permit to elope, but may if you have a certain number of people or include any decor and setup. It’s important to always double-check your elopement destination’s website to make sure you have the most up-to-date information.

Use your elopement vendors as another resource because they are familiar with the area and the regulations that come with it.
Make sure to follow the rules and respect the land you are visiting, making sure to leave it better than you found it.

Check out how you can leave no trace during your elopement and why it’s so important.

Maryland Marriage Licenses

Planning to make your elopement official in Maryland? Make sure to pay your marriage license fee (the average is $35, but it depends on which county you’re applying for your license). Maryland also has a 48-hour waiting period before the marriage license is issued, so you need to plan accordingly if you’re traveling to Maryland for your ceremony.

Once obtained, your license is valid for 6 months from the date it is issued. Other than that, make sure to bring the appropriate paperwork, obtain an officiant, and have at least two witnesses to make your Maryland wedding ceremony legit.

Thinking about planning a commitment ceremony instead? Check out our guide to learn the difference.

Best Places to Stay Near Maryland

When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay for your Maryland elopement, you want to keep in mind where your elopement destination is. Once you have considered travel times to and from your adventure, think about who is staying with you at your accommodation. Finding unique rentals is always an awesome option for a more intimate and unique stay during your wedding day. Check out these places to stay we’re loving: