5 Tips For An Epic Elopement From A Professional Photographer
Good vibes, even better views!
1. Nobody ever regretted going “too big.”
Just because you decided to elope, doesn’t mean that it has to be a small ordeal. One of the biggest selling points of having an elopement is that you get to make it all about you! And I’m here to tell you that you deserve it. Your love story deserves it. So don’t regret going too big!
Let’s take that additional 30 minute drive or cross country flight. Invest in the florist and details if that’s important to you. And wear that gorgeous outfit.
Most people only want to do this one time. So why not make an experience you’ll never be able to forget?! Your photos will also love you better for it.
2. Think about the weather.
This one is a huge starting point to figuring out your final location. If you have to get married in a certain month/season, then you’ll want to dress appropriately and plan accordingly. If there’s a chance of snow, let’s not show up in a dress without some sort of heated blanket or coat ready nearby. Only good vibes allowed on your elopement day.
Contrastingly, if you’re flexible, then aim for the months with the best weather and landscapes! Fall is a particularly busy time of year, for instance. Because everyone is trying to catch a light breeze alongside golden leaves.
Whatever your plan, be sure to have at least one backup plan as well! Can you reserve your photographer for two days? Can we dress up your backyard? Think of Plan A, B, and maybe C.
3. Feel free to get all sentimental and romantic.
Is there a spot that means something to your love story? Maybe somewhere you escape to or went on a first date? It will make your elopement even more magical, just trust me. You’re allowed to cry. It’s just us, after all.
Speaking of…
4. Make those vows special.
Your partner will definitely thank you. An elopement’s ceremony section of the day can be already so minimal, so one of our biggest tips is to take your time and make this moment absolutely special and mindful. Feel free to speak as much as you like, cry, take a break, tell a story.
It can be hard to profess your undying love in front of a crowd of people. But that doesn’t apply here. You got this!
5. Add unique moments and details for the ultimate experience!
Honestly just ask yourself how you can make this day a lot more fun. Is it with a celebratory champagne toast? Shotgun contest? How about bringing the your dog along? Oh wait! McDonald’s run. That’s the one.
Make your elopement your own. I promise it will be a lot more memorable and cooler, obviously.
6. Consider permit costs and acquisition.
Elopements are great because they can kind of happen anywhere. We say kind of because obviously some places have special rules or permit purchase requirements. Don’t let this stop your dreams of getting married at your top site! Most permit fees are minimal and it can honestly guarantee less of a crowd than at a public site.
Thoroughly research your location of choice even if you think it is public. Trust me, you do not want to get to your elopement day and then get kicked out.
7. Research local marriage laws.
While we’re on the topic of research, be sure to know the local marriage laws before you travel. Different states will require a unique process to ensure your marriage is “legal.” For example, most states require some sort of officiant and two witnesses present to sign a marriage certificate that you have to apply for.
Colorado and Washington D.C. are unique states that make it easy to “self-solemnize.” Meaning that it can just be you, your love, and a photographer (me, hopefully) at the top of a cliff at sunset.
8. Make it a whole day adventure!
Some people want to make their special day as easy and quick as possible. But for those couples who crave adventure and once in a lifetime experiences, why not go all out?
We’ll meet you at your getting ready location, perhaps a gorgeous cabin with mountain views or a tipi in the Utah desert. Hike to the top of the trail and get married. Pop some champagne, have a dance party, and let us take some photos. Finish with a hot air balloon ride, at a bar with friends, night time lantern photos on the beach, horse back riding, run around the city and eat pizza! The ideas are only limited to your imagination. And it should definitely be documented to show how epic it was.
9. Don’t forget the video.
Photos are undoubtedly the priority of most couples. But if you really want to relive the emotion, the celebration, or even funny moments, video will capture that even better! In combination with your photos, your gallery will be absolutely stunning and everything your story deserves!
I’ve had too many friends tell me that they regret not adding a video package. The day flies by so quickly when you’re having fun, so we’re here to capture all of it. Plus, elopement vows and b-roll are, in my experience, so much more beautiful. Your video will be one-of-a-kind!
If you’re looking for a Denver Photography and Video team, you’ve found them! We offer all-inclusive elopement photo + video packages to make your day beautiful and stress free. Plus, we bring good vibes only!
