A Complete Elopement Checklist

Just you. Your love. Whether in front of the local courthouse or a little villa on the Amalfi Coast, elopements strip away the distractions of traditional weddings, leaving only the pure love and connection woven between you. 

While elopements require less planning, a few logistics still need sorting. As an elopement photographer, I’ve crafted this elopement checklist to help you get hitched without a hitch.

YOUR ELOPEMENT CHECKLIST

Research & Pick Your Location

Embrace the spontaneity, but don’t forget the details! Research your dream spot and check if you need a permit. 

For example, if you’re eyeing one of Colorado’s beautiful state or national parks, find out if a permit is required. If you’re jetting off to a different country, check if you can have a legal ceremony there.

If it’s a destination wedding:

Get any necessary permits.

Book your flights and/or transportation.

Reserve your accommodations.

If it’s at the courthouse:

See if you need to make an appointment beforehand.

Check if you can write and recite your own vows.

Find out if it can accommodate any guests you might want there.

Make sure you can have a photographer present if you’d like that moment captured.

Sort Your Marriage License & Officiant.

Make it official! Get your marriage license before the ceremony: 

Bring any required documents.

Find out if you need any witnesses.

Send in any paperwork afterward to finalize your marriage license.

If you need an officiant to make it official, get right to it!

Find out if you need an officiant.

Check their availability for your date.

Plan What Matters.

Make your elopement uniquely yours by focusing on the details that matter most to you. Whether it’s having your hair professionally styled or picking out the perfect flowers, find the cute little touches that make it yours.

Hire an elopement photographer.

Choose your elopement outfit.

Order bouquets and/or boutonnieres if you want them.

Get your hair and/or makeup done (again, only if you want!)

FINDING AN ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER

Elopement photographers specialize in creating that intimate, magical vibe while capturing your love story so you can remember your big day forever.

Wherever you want to say “I do,” I’ll be there. Reach out to me here, and I’ll get back to you ASAP — I can’t wait to witness your love story come to life!