Misty Vows & Mountain Picnics: Roxanne & Craig’s Dreamy Dolomites Elopement

Some love stories are meant to be told in the great outdoors, surrounded by nature’s beauty. For Roxanne and Craig, the Dolomites were the perfect place to begin their next chapter together. With mist rolling over Lake Braies and the quiet grandeur of Passo Giau as their backdrop, their elopement was a dream. It was intimate, and adventurous, and reflected beautifully their love for each other. Get all the details below.

Are you ready to plan your epic love adventure? Explore our Italy elopement packages to start planning. 

About This Elopement in the Dolomites

Photography by In Bianco e Nero

“In the heart of the Dolomites, Roxanne and Craig found their perfect elopement destination. The untamed beauty of the mountains and serene lakes set the stage for their intimate celebration. Embracing the adventure and tranquility, they read their vows amidst a romantic fog at Lake Braies and enjoyed a whimsical picnic in the deserted peaks of Passo Giau, unfazed by the light rain. Their calm, relaxed approach perfectly resonated with the natural surroundings, creating unforgettable memories in one of nature’s most enchanting elopement spots.” [Emanuele, the photographer]

For them, it was never about grand venues or elaborate decor. Instead, it was about the feeling. The peacefulness of the mountains, the crisp alpine air, and the simplicity of standing side by side in a place that truly resonated with them.

Are you thinking about planning an elopement? We wouldn’t blame you! Check out these 10 reasons to elope and see if you align with one (or more) of the reasons!

A Day to Remember: Vows, Mountains, & a Romantic Picnic

Eloping in the Dolomites is all about embracing the moment, and Roxanne and Craig did just that. Their day began at Lake Braies, where they had booked the exclusive platform for a private, early-morning experience. As the world was still waking up, they exchanged heartfelt vows on the dock, with mist hovering over the emerald water, a scene straight out of a fairytale.

“Two moments really stood out to me: first, their vows on the dock, surrounded by the stillness and a light mist, creating such a mystical atmosphere.” [Emanuele, the photographer]

After their lakeside ceremony, the couple journeyed through the winding mountain roads to Passo Giau, one of the most stunning locations in the Dolomites. Here, they set up a charming picnic, complete with cozy blankets and local delicacies. Even the light rain drizzle couldn’t dampen their spirits! It only made the moment feel more intimate and romantic.

“The picnic at Passo Giau – a short hike to a secluded spot, with breathtaking mountain views while they shared their meal. Pure magic.” [Emanuele, the photographer]

Permit & LNT

When planning a picnic in the mountains, popping champagne, and exploring remote trails, it’s important to keep Leave No Trace (LNT) principles in mind. The Dolomites are a pristine natural wonder, and eloping here means respecting and preserving their beauty for future visitors. Please keep this in mind when planning your adventure.

“There are no specific permits or restrictions for elopements in the Dolomites or for the locations used during this elopement. The exclusive platform at Lake Braies can be booked directly through their website, and couples get private access (or shared access with another couple at half price) to the lake and a boat for an hour and a half at sunrise, before the public arrives.” [Emanuele, the photographer]

Here are some key LNT tips tailored specifically for this kind of adventure elopement:

1. Pack Out Everything (Including Champagne Corks!) – If you plan to celebrate with champagne, make sure to collect the cork and wire cage so they don’t get left behind. Even biodegradable items like fruit peels or food scraps can disrupt the local ecosystem.

2. Choose Low-Impact Picnic Setups – Bring reusable plates, cups, and utensils instead of disposable ones. Opt for a picnic blanket instead of heavy setups that could disturb vegetation.

3. Stay on Established Trails and Durable Surfaces – When hiking to your picnic spot or photo locations, avoid stepping on fragile alpine plants. Stick to designated trails and rocky surfaces to minimize impact.

4. Keep Noise Levels Low – The Dolomites are known for their serene, untouched beauty. Keep music, loud voices, and other noise to a minimum to maintain a peaceful atmosphere for other visitors (and to soak in the magic yourselves!).

Planning a Dolomites Elopement: Top 4 Tips

Thinking of eloping in the Dolomites? Here are some expert tips to make your experience as magical as Roxanne and Craig’s:

1. Be flexible with the weather. The Dolomites can be unpredictable, and locations like Lake Braies have a no-refund policy. If it rains, embrace it—it can add a dreamy, moody feel to your photos!
2. Don’t underestimate travel times. The Dolomites may look close on a map, but the winding roads can add unexpected time to your journey. Plan accordingly, and give yourself room to enjoy each location.
3. Choose a photographer who knows the area. The right photographer will not only capture stunning shots but also guide you to hidden gems and optimize your timeline. (Looking for an expert? Check out our list of top Dolomites elopement photographers)
4. Add personal touches. A simple picnic, a cozy campfire, or even a helicopter ride over the peaks can elevate your elopement experience.

Interested in unique elopement ideas? Browse our elopement planning resources!

What Made This Elopement Special?

What truly made Roxanne and Craig’s elopement unforgettable was how effortlessly their day reflected who they are.

“I absolutely loved their outfits. The colors and details blended perfectly into the landscape, like pieces of a puzzle coming together. Each detail was thoughtfully chosen, with nothing overwhelming the other.” [Emanuele, the photographer]

They didn’t need extravagant decor or an audience to make their love feel monumental. Instead, they embraced the stunning natural scenery, allowing their connection and the breathtaking landscape to speak for itself.

Shop our favorite elopement dresses and wedding accessories for your big day!

Final Advice for Couples Planning a Dolomites Elopement

If you’re drawn to the idea of an intimate, nature-filled elopement, take this as your sign to go for it and just elope! But as with any adventure, come with an open heart and mind.

“Approach your elopement with an open heart and mind. Be flexible and open to the unexpected – these experiences are about creating memories, not just getting the perfect shot. Small touches, like a helicopter ride or choosing a unique spot, can make a huge difference in the memories you carry with you.” [Emanuele, the photographer]

Whether it’s hiking to a secluded peak, saying your vows by a misty lake, or sharing a quiet moment under the stars, your elopement should be about you. The Dolomites offer the perfect setting for an unforgettable experience—one that, just like Roxanne and Craig’s, will feel like a dream come to life.

Ready to Plan Your Dolomites Elopement?

If Roxanne and Craig’s story has inspired you, we’re here to help make your own adventure a reality. Team up with In Bianco e Nero, OR check out our ultimate Dolomites elopement guide for tips, location ideas, and expert recommendations to start planning your dream day!

Vendors 

Photographer & Planning | In Bianco e Nero

Location | Lake Braies Stilt House

Bride Dress | Candler Budget Bridal 

Groom Suit | Studio Suits 

Photos From This Elopement

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