Are you dreaming of an intimate wedding day in a stunning location? If so, a destination elopement wedding might be the perfect choice for you! As a destination elopement photographer, I absolutely love helping couples plan their dream elopement from start to finish.

In this blog post, I’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your perfect destination elopement wedding, from choosing a location to budgeting and more!

Deciding to Have a Destination Elopement Wedding

First, let’s talk about why eloping can be an amazing choice. With a destination elopement wedding, you get to:

• Focus on what matters most – your love and commitment to each other
• Avoid the stress of a big traditional wedding, because having a huge wedding can be EXHAUSTING!
• Get married in a COOL location that inspires you
• Celebrate in an intimate way and have a more intentional time with your people
• Combine your wedding and honeymoon into one epic adventure

If this sounds like the kind of wedding you want, then a destination elopement could be perfect for you! The most important thing is that you and your partner make decisions that feel right for you.

Choosing Your Destination Elopement Location

One of the most exciting parts of planning a destination elopement is picking your location. Whether it’s a sandy beach, a mountain peak, or a charming foreign city, the possibilities are endless. Some questions to consider when choosing your elopement location:

• What kind of scenery do you love? Mountains, ocean, desert, etc.
• How far are you willing to travel?
• Is it a place that holds special meaning for you as a couple?
• Will the weather be ideal for your wedding date?
• Are there any legal requirements or permits needed to get married there?
• Does it matter how easily reachable your location is and whether it has amenities you need for your your elopement and any post-elopement celebration?

As a destination elopement photographer, I’m always happy to help couples scout epic locations that fit their dreams! I love traveling, including for weddings and elopements. You can check out my previous travels and travel schedule here!

Also, you don’t need to leave the country for a stunning destination elopement wedding. The United States is brimming with breathtaking spots that are perfect for your special day. There’s Montana, Alaska, Colorado, California and so many more states with beautiful scenery, perfect for ANY vision!

Planning the Details of Your Destination Elopement

Once you’ve chosen your dream elopement location, it’s time to start planning the details. Here are some of the things to think about:

• Accommodations – Will you stay in a hotel, Airbnb, or campsite? Popular destinations can fill up fast, so secure your accommodation as soon as you set your date. You can also consider resorts that offer wedding packages, those can simplify planning your big day!
• Vendors – You’ll need an officiant, photographer, and potentially hair/makeup, florals, etc. Look for vendors with elopement experience.
• Attire – Will you wear a traditional wedding dress and suit, or something outside the box?
• Activities – In addition to your ceremony, what other activities do you want to do on your elopement day? Hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding, going on a winery tour, etc.
• Guests – Will you have any guests join you, or keep it just the two of you?
• Permits – Many locations require special permits for weddings. As your destination elopement photographer, I can help you figure out what’s needed.

As an elopement photographer, I love helping couples plan all these details. I can provide vendor recommendations, share sample timelines, and give advice on everything from packing to writing your vows.

Budgeting for Your Destination Elopement

One of the biggest questions couples have is how much a destination elopement costs. The truth is, it can vary widely depending on your location, number of guests, and how elaborate you want to go.

Some general costs to factor in:

• Airfare and transportation
• Accommodations
• Marriage license and permits
• Officiant and ceremony fees
• Photography and videography
• Hair, makeup, florals, and attire
• Activities and food

Depending on all these factors, your elopement could cost upwards of $10k. You can definitely elope for less if you’re willing to get creative and prioritize what matters most to you. One of the biggest advantages of eloping is that you can customize your budget to fit your needs. You don’t have to worry about pleasing everyone else – it’s all about creating your dream day together.

Cassie Beth Photo | Destination Elopement Photographer