How to Plan an Elopement Wedding: Your Ultimate Elopement Checklist

You know that you want to do it... But do you know how you are going to make it happen? The idea of an elopement wedding might seem quick and straightforward, but planning an elopement takes some skill and organization to perfect! 

Don’t stress though! This simple elopement checklist will help you prepare for your perfect elopement! 
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Let’s take a look!

If you would like to download the elopement checklist PDF file, you can scroll down to the bottom... don't worry, its completely FREE!

Step One: Plan the Vibe

When you think of your dream day, what do you picture? Do you see just you and your spouse saying I Do on top of a mountain? Or, do you see you and your partner with a small group of friends and family celebrating matrimony as the beach waves roll in? 

This is your first step! Deciding on the vibe, you are searching for will help everything else fall into place. So, close your eyes and picture the perfect elopement wedding... What do you see, what do you hear, what do you feel? Go with it! 

Making It Happen:

• Keep your elopement wedding to a maximum of 20 people to keep the vibe 
• Play some of your favorite songs that remind you of your partner while you brainstorm 
• Browse elopement photography in the area you are interested in having the elopement

Step Two: Set a Budget

Now that you’ve got the aesthetic you are looking for down on paper, it is time to think about making it happen within your budget. Although the location might be free, remember to factor in other key components of your wedding day, such as an elopement photographer, marriage license, hotel, travel costs, etc. 

Make It Happen:

• Discuss budget ahead of time with your partner before you get too deep into planning
• Write down a number and stick to it to avoid any monetary stresses 
• Write down everything you want to be included and work down from there 
• Keep in mind that elopements are quality over quantity

Step Three: Location and Travel

Let’s say you decided on a beach elopement...Well, there are a lot of beaches in the world! Your perfect location for elopement might require a little travel though. If you're staying within the United States, I highly recommend considering the PNW. A Cabin elopement up in the mountains sounds like a dream come true to me. If you're more open to traveling further, then you HAVE to book an elopement in Iceland. It's truly an amazing place.

​Make It Happen:

• Book accommodations ahead of time so you are not scrambling last minute 
• Make sure to book a photographer who can travel 
• Send out invites with enough time so guests can make arrangements to travel

Step Four: Find Your Team

Although elopements are more low-key than traditional weddings, you will still want to ensure that you are not missing out on any of the usual exciting details! You might need hair and makeup, a florist, an elopement photographer, tour guide, planner, etc. 

​Make It Happen:

• Write down your must-haves (elopement photographer) 
• Research vendors who will travel in your area
• Look at pictures of their past work to see if they will be a good fit

Step Five: Attire and Glam

Elopements have come a long way from quick courthouse I Do’s in casual wear. Glam is half the fun of planning an elopement nowadays.​

​Make It Happen: 

• Check the weather for the time of year you’ll be eloping and plan your attire accordingly
• Browse different wedding makeup looks and try some test looks ahead of time 
• If you are eloping outdoors...Be prepared! (Hiking Boots, Raincoat, Etc.)

Step Six: Handle Logistics

The tedious part is sort of the most critical part... Legal logistics. Each state has different requirements to get a marriage license, use the land, etc. You must handle all of these things before your big day.

​Make It Happen:  

• Check the legal requirements for marriage licenses in the state you will be eloping 
• Verify if you will need an officiant or witness to say I Do 
• Check the regulations for elopement ceremonies
• Make sure you have all the appropriate documents (Social, ID, Birth Certificate, Etc.)

Your Dream Elopement Wedding

Planning your dream elopement wedding will be a breeze with this simple elopement planning checklist! With that being said, having an advocate on your side will make things even easier. I do my best to ensure that each elopement I am a part of is unique and unforgettable! 

I am willing to travel across the globe to help my clients create the most amazing and memorable experience. Not only am I a photographer, but I am also able to help with the logistics of your elopement ceremony! Contact me today, so I can help make your special day come to life!

Let's Get Started

Elopement Checklist PDF

Want to download and use my simple elopement checklist PDF file? It's completely free, just subscribe with your email and I'll send it over to you!

If you would like more resources for planning your elopement wedding, check out the links below
FAQ for Elopement Weddings
Planning for an Elopement in Washington State