Yay! So you have decided to elope! But now the questions start. Where do we go? What do we need to prepare? There is so much it might be overwhelming!

The best part is, eloping can be as simple or as difficult as you make it. Here is the Best Elopement Planning Checklist to make sure all of your boxes are checked, and you can have a stress free and enjoyable day to write your love story!

Where to Start:

-       When will you get married? This can be a specific date or even a season. Start somewhere and narrow it down when you check off everything else.

-       What is your budget?

-       Where do you imagine eloping to? Somewhere local or far away? Somewhere you know well or somewhere you’ve never been?

-       Who, if anyone, will you be inviting?

Location Planning

When you have almost the entire world at your fingertips to pick from, it may be difficult to narrow down where you want to say I do. However, while it may feel overwhelming, choosing a special location may be one of the best things you can do for your perfect elopement day. Some elopement photographers are also great at helping you plan your entire day, including location. If you are having a difficult time deciding, reach out to your favorite photographers for help.

-       Choose somewhere meaningful. Even if you have never been there before, choose somewhere that matches your vibe, and what you both enjoy when being somewhere.

-       Check that it is legal for you to get married at that location. Do you need permits, extra paperwork? Each country, and states or provinces have their own rules for who can and can’t get married.

-       Pick a location that is suitable during the date you would like to get married. Not all locations are accessible, let alone enjoyable, in every season.

-       Lastly, if you are inviting any guests, choose a location that is accessible for all members attending.

Once you have your location picked, book:

1. Flights

2. Car rentals

3. Hotels/Airbnb

4. Venue (if desired)

Ceremony Planning

-       You need someone to officiate your wedding. Depending where you are, you may have to hire an officiant, designate a close friend or family member, or you may be able to self solemnize. Check out the requirements of your chosen location.

-       Legal documents: check out the legalities for your location. Most places need at least a marriage license. Some locations need permits to perform a wedding ceremony. There can be wait times so be sure to apply for these in advance.

-       Ceremony time: Sunrise, midday, or sunset? What time would you like to say your vows?

-       Vows: Though you have the choice of saying generic vows, I highly recommend writing your own. It will personalize the ceremony so much, and you won’t forget the look on your partner’s face as you tell them exactly what they mean to you.

-       Traditions: is there any other traditions you would like to include in your wedding?

-       Rings: if you chose to exchange rings don’t forget them!

Attire Planning

-       Wedding dress and/or suit. Whatever you both choose to wear, pick something that complements each other, and that you feel comfortable in.

-       Footwear: ensure that it is suitable for whatever terrain you will be on

-       Jewelry: earrings, bracelets, cufflinks… you name it. (I already mentioned the rings)

-       Veil: If you plan to use a veil, don’t forget to pick up your favorite!

-       Jackets or other layers if you get cold.

-       Gloves and hats: any other accessories you may love the look of

-       Backpacks if you are hiking!

Vendor Planning

Here is a list of possible vendors you may want to have for your elopement. Absolutely none of them (minus an officiant to make it legal) are required, but they certainly may help make your day more special!

-       Florist for bouquets, boutenierres, floral crowns etc

-       Baker for cake or other goodies

-       Officiant

-       Picnic rental or other event rentals for backdrops, seating etc.

-       Hair and makeup artist (because everyone wants to look their best, and who wants to get pampered the day of their elopement?)

-       Videographer

-       Photographer

-       Calligrapher for stationary and/or vow books

-       An elopement planner

-       Any activity you might want to do the day of (tour guides, helicopter tours, horseback riding etc)

 Post Ceremony Planning

You are officially married! Now what?

-       Decide what you want to do with the rest of your elopement day. This can be literally anything, but if you need ideas of what activities you may want to partake in, check out my blog here

-       Be sure to plan and reserve any special dinner locations, or other activities, in advance to avoid disappointment.

Post Elopement Planning

Your post elopement process can be very simple, or more extravagant.

-       Ensure all your legalities are in check. Send off your marriage certificate, change your name officially etc.

-       Announce the news! Many photographers provide sneak peeks shortly after your elopement so you can have some photos to share with friends and family. You have so many options, including sending out stationary, to just making a post on Facebook.

-       Do you want an at home celebration for all the friends and family you didn’t invite?

 Feeling ready to elope?

Don’t feel overwhelmed at the idea of how many things you will have to get ready! While it may feel like a lot, it's not meant to be a stressful process, and your photographer should be there to help you every step of the way if you need it.