Planning an Elopement
If you’re planning an elopement but don’t know where to start, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. I’ve created a checklist below to help you plan the day of your dreams. Whether you’re an experienced traveler or you just got bit by the travel bug, creating an extraordinary elopement involves a little in-depth planning. I’ll walk you through it all so you can relax on the day you say your vows.
I’m all about being spontaneous, however, I’ve learned from experience that a little bit of planning makes things go a whole lot smoother. At times, being spontaneous results in stress, picked-over options, and higher prices.
On the other hand, if you’re a big planner, my advice is to be prepared but be flexible. An adventurous elopement sometimes means changing plans last-minute due to weather or other uncontrollable circumstances. So have a back up plan, or a few, that you’ll be just as happy with. Above all, remember that planning should be exciting, so have fun with it!
My recommended process is to first create a vision with your partner about what kind of day you want. That will affect location, style, etc. Then work out the logistics from there. I have plenty of resources that will help you create the day of your dreams. So let’s get into it!
Ultimate Elopement Checklist
Planning an Elopement
3-4 months
☐ Create a vision for what your perfect day looks like
☐ Choose a date
☐ Pick a wedding location
☐ Book vendors
☐ Look up legal requirements of eloping in the chosen destination (permits, legal marriage requirements)
☐ Set a budget
☐ Pick a honeymoon location (if different than wedding)
☐ Research travel requirements (passport/visa, shots, etc.)
☐ Buy wedding attire
2 Months
☐ Choose who you want to be a part of your day (witnesses/friends/family)
☐ Buy groom wedding attire
☐ Get marriage license
☐ Book accommodation + transport
1 Month
☐ Order/exchange foreign currency
☐ Get wedding dress fitted and altered if needed
☐ Buy shoes + accessories
☐ Confirm all vendors
☐ Make restaurant reservations ahead of time (you’ll probably want a nice meal to celebrate after!)
☐ Create day of timeline
☐ Arrange care for pets/plants
☐ Request time off work
☐ Confirm all bookings (accommodation, flights, etc.)
1 Week
☐ Check weather
☐ Pack
☐ Get nails done
☐ Buy adapters for plugs/electronics if needed, and any other travel necessities
After
☐ Announce your elopement
☐ Plan a celebration with loved ones if you want
…
Planning an Elopement
I’m a Spain based wedding photographer. Above all, my goal is to capture the authenticity of your relationship + the essence of the experience. I help my couples create unique adventures.
I’ve traveled to 25+ countries, documenting destination weddings and elopements internationally. So whether you’re looking for a photographer in Scotland or Morocco, I’m always down to meet you for an incredible journey.
My couples are the daring ones who aren’t afraid to go after what they want + live in the moment. Reach out for more info, and let’s create something extraordinary!
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