5 Tips for a Stress Free Elopement
Does it sound a little like an oxymoron that a wedding or elopement could be stress free? Believe it or not, IT’S POSSIBLE!! And it can be totally attainable. I’ve compiled a list of 5 tips for couples planning to elope who want to serve their future selves on their wedding day.
1. PLAN, PLAN PLAN. Here me out all you non type A people — planning now, before the big day, will save you a world of headache. Having a secure plan in place will help you be able to focus on the moment. All the major and small details will drift into the background of your conscious and you’ll you'll have the freedom to soak in the emotions, the beauty of your surroundings, and the joy of being with your partner. Planning ahead gives you time to work with vendors, scout locations, and create a timeline that aligns with your dream elopement. It allows you to talk about and decide what’s most important to you and then communicate that to your vendors.
With the right vendors on your side and well communicated goals and visions, the vendor team becomes your personal cheerleaders, assistants, and go-getters ensuring your vision comes to life. Whether it’s finding the perfect mountain vista at sunrise or arranging a cozy dinner after the ceremony, planning ensures your day feels like you.
2. MANAGE EXPECTATIONS: Even with the best-laid plans, elopements often come with an element of unpredictability, especially in the mountains. Weather, trail conditions, or unexpected delays can shift the day's flow—but embracing flexibility will make your experience far more enjoyable.
Start by setting realistic expectations for what your day might look like. If you're planning a mountaintop elopement, know that clouds or fog might obscure the view—or create a dreamy, ethereal backdrop for your photos. If hiking is part of your plan, prepare for the possibility of mud, wind, or changes in trail access. By reframing these potential challenges as part of your adventure, you’ll stay positive and in the moment.
Prepare for changes by having a backup plan. For instance, identify an alternative location nearby in case your first choice isn’t accessible. Pack essentials like sturdy shoes, umbrellas, and warm layers so you’re ready for any surprises. These small steps ensure that even if things don’t go exactly as envisioned, the day will still feel magical and stress-free. When you trust the process and embrace the unexpected, your elopement becomes a unique story that’s authentically yours.
3. FOCUS ON THE RIGHT THING: Your elopement is about one thing: celebrating your love and commitment to each other. It’s easy to get caught up in the details—what to wear, where to stand, or how everything will look on camera—but the real magic of your day comes from the moments you share together.
Instead of fixating on perfection, prioritize the experiences and emotions that matter most to you. Is it the quiet exchange of vows in a breathtaking location? The joyful laughter as you toast with your closest loved ones? The exhilarating feeling of adventure as you hike to a stunning vista hand in hand? Let those moments take center stage.
When you focus on what’s truly important—your love story, your connection, and the meaning behind your day—you create space for authenticity. This will not only make your experience more meaningful but also lead to photos that feel raw, honest, and timeless.
So, let go of the small stuff. If your dress gets a little dusty or the wind blows your hair, embrace it as part of the story. At the end of the day, it’s not the details that will stand out—it’s the love and joy you felt that will stay with you forever.
4. EMBRACE THE PIVOTING: If there’s one thing I’ve learned in photographing weddings and elopements for the last 10 years it’s this: things are not going to go exactly as planned. But, it’s in those unplanned moments of surprise that the magic happens — that your day becomes unlike anyone else’s story. When you embrace the pivot, you give yourself the freedom to enjoy the experience rather than stress over things you can’t control. Rain might mean cozying up under an umbrella for beautifully moody photos. The key is to approach your day with flexibility and a sense of adventure. Have backup plans in place, trust your photographer and vendors to adapt with you, and remind yourself that your love is what makes the day special—not the perfect conditions. After all, your love story is a unique adventure of its own — why should your wedding day be any different?
5. HIRE EXPERT VENDORS: One of the best ways to ensure a stress-free elopement is to hire experienced vendors who understand the unique needs of an intimate, adventurous wedding day. From photographers to florists, having the right team in place means you can relax and trust the experts to handle the details.
Experienced vendors bring more than just their craft—they bring knowledge, problem-solving skills, and the ability to adapt to unexpected changes. A seasoned photographer, for instance, knows how to work with shifting weather, changing light, and adventurous locations to capture stunning, timeless images. A skilled planner or officiant can help navigate logistics and ensure your day flows seamlessly.
When you hire vendors who specialize in elopements, you’re also gaining access to their insider knowledge. They can recommend the best locations, the right timing for optimal lighting, and tips for making your experience unforgettable. Their expertise allows you to focus on your love story while they handle the behind-the-scenes details.
Investing in experienced professionals isn’t just about the day itself—it’s about creating memories you’ll treasure for a lifetime. With the right team on your side, you can step into your elopement with confidence, knowing everything is taken care of.
Ready to plan your own adventure together?
I value direct communication and couples who place their story, moments, people, and legacy over productions or perfection. My couples actually like and enjoy each other. They don’t want the same ole boring wedding photos, but they value real art, honest adventure, intentional stories.
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