Elopement Planning Checklist

Just the two of you? Parents? 10 friends? Mountain, beach, city hall, or backyard? Decide the scale and setting.

Consider accessibility, weather, permit requirements, and how the backdrop will photograph.

You still need a legal ceremony. Research licence requirements, witnesses, and any waiting periods.

Even elopements need a legal officiant. Some locations have on-site options.

Many photographers offer 2-3 hour elopement packages. Their photos will be the centrepiece of your memories.

Elopements can cost $1,000-10,000 depending on location, travel, and how you celebrate after.

Dress up, dress down, or anything in between. Wear something that makes you feel incredible.

Check your local processing times and any required documentation.

This is the heart of your elopement. Take your time and be honest.

Make the night special. A boutique hotel, cabin, or Airbnb with a view.

Just the two of you at a special restaurant, or a small dinner with your guests.

National parks, beaches, and some public locations require ceremony permits.

A single bouquet and a boutonniere. Simple and beautiful.

Send them the location pin, timing, and any special requests.

Have a backup location or embrace the conditions.

Print or write them neatly. Practise reading them out loud.

Outfits, rings, licence, vows, ID, and a phone charger.

Before or after, your choice. Some couples announce the same day.

There are no rules. Do what feels right for the two of you.

The whole point. Be present. Look at each other.

Make it legal. Your celebrant will guide you through this.

Let your photographer capture you being yourselves. Adventure portraits, quiet moments, and the joy.

Champagne, dinner, dancing in the kitchen, or a hike. However you want.