After making the decision to elope, one of the most exciting parts of planning your epic day is deciding where to tie the knot! But as a queer photographer, I know that for LGBTQ+ couples, there’s the added stress of figuring out which countries you can get legally married in, and how to ensure that you’re safe when traveling abroad. To help you out, and give you some ideas for all the beautiful places you can elope in, here are 10 LGBTQ+ friendly destination wedding locations around the world!
What is an LGBTQ+ Friendly Destination Wedding Location?
Before I get into the list of destination wedding locations, what makes a place LGBTQ+ friendly?
First, the ability to get legally married. More and more countries are passing legislation to allow same sex couples to tie the knot, and all of these LGBTQ+ friendly destination wedding locations are places where your marriage will be legally recognized.
But, while legal recognition is amazing, another huge factor in determining whether a place is an LGBTQ+ friendly destination wedding location is safety - is being gay generally accepted, and will you be able to enjoy your elopement and your honeymoon without worrying about any negative reactions?
All of these LGBTQ+ friendly destination wedding locations are generally considered safe for couples of all genders and orientations, and you will be able to get legally married!
For a full, in depth understanding of LGBTQ+ rights all over the world you can check out this resource! EQUALDEX This website rates countries on LGBTQ+ friendliness based on things like legality, but also on friendliness of the people within each country.
10 LGBTQ+ Friendly Destination Wedding Locations for Your Elopement
Here are 10 LGBTQ+ friendly destination wedding locations to consider for your elopement!
1. Denmark
In 1989, Denmark was the first country in the entire world to give same sex unions the same legal rights as heterosexual marriages - and though at the time, LGBTQ+ couples still couldn’t get married, this was a huge step in the right direction, and one that got the ball rolling in the rest of the world.
Denmark is a gorgeous place to elope, with scenery that includes rolling hills, lush forests, cliffs over the ocean, and sandy beaches! It’s also considered one of the happiest countries in the world, with friendly locals and a laid back atmosphere - all of which makes it one of the best LGBTQ+ friendly destination wedding locations!
2. The Netherlands
The Netherlands, being the first country in the world to officially legallize gay marriage, is now one of the best places to elope for LGBTQ+ couples! You’ll find stunning countrysides and adorable villages, and if you want to explore the city, Amsterdam is one of the best places to go. With adorable cafes, canals through the city, and stunning architecture, it’s an amazing place to tie the knot.
3. Argentina
Marriage equality in South America started with Argentina, and today, it’s one of the best LGBTQ+ friendly destination wedding locations in the world! In Buenos Aires you’ll find a vibrant culture and tons to explore in the city, and if you want to explore some of the incredible landscapes, Argentina has absolutely stunning mountains, deserts, and everything in between. The region of Patagonia, which stretches across both Argentina and Chile is an especially gorgeous place, with wild, rugged terrain!
4. Iceland
Iceland is known for being one of the most scenic countries in the world, and a popular elopement destination. It’s a great choice for LGBTQ+ couples who want to get married amongst the incredible waterfalls, mountains, and glaciers! Fun fact: shortly after gay marriage was legalized in Iceland, the prime minster at the time married her same sex partner.
5. Hawai’i
Don’t forget about the US when you’re thinking of places to elope! There are plenty of beautiful elopement locations all over the United States, but Hawai’i is truly a slice of paradise. Along with the stunning scenery, it’s an LGBTQ+ friendly place for adventure elopements!
For some inspiration, check out this guide to eloping on Oahu.
6. Spain
Spain has been ahead of most other European countries when it came to protecting rights for same sex couples, and it’s a beautiful place to elope! With some of the best nightlife in the world, and some of the most beautiful beaches, it’s a great place to tie the knot whether you’re looking for culture and city adventures or serene nature.
7. Bora Bora
One of the best tropical, luxurious LGBTQ+ friendly destination wedding locations is Bora Bora - an island in French Polynesia that offers dreamy ocean views and turquoise waters, lots of opportunities to spot marine life, and some of the most incredible resorts in the world! It’s the perfect place for an elopement that combines adventures and relaxation.
8. British Columbia, Canada
All of Canada is a great LGBTQ+ friendly place to elope (couples from the US used to travel to tie the knot in Canada before the United States passed marriage equality), but British Columbia is one of the most scenic provinces, offering some incredible, diverse landscapes. There are stunning mountains and alpine lakes, rugged coastlines, and some of the most amazing forest scenery!
9. Uruguay
Uruguay is an underrated destination in South America, and has actually been one of the leaders for transgender rights around the world. The landscape features gorgeous rolling hills, peaceful countrysides, and some of the most amazing beaches!
10. Ireland
Last but not least, Ireland is one of the best places to elope for LGBTQ+ couples. With stunning cliffs over the oceans, ancient castle ruins, lush greenery, and all around stunning landscapes, you’ll have countless beautiful options for incredible places to tie the knot!
For a full blog on how to elope in Ireland CLICK HERE.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Elopement Location?
Part of my job as an elopement photographer is to help couples like you find the perfect place to tie the knot! Whether you want to travel abroad or stay close to home, I’ll help you find a spot that feels right to you. Each couple is different, so the perfect elopement location for you is unique too!
Contact me to start planning your amazing destination elopement, and let’s dream up an incredible adventure!
