Scotland Elopement Guide - How to Get Married in Scotland

Scotland is known for its gorgeous isles, rich traditions, and thousands of beautiful lakes to explore -  making it the ultimate adventure elopement destination! For any couple who wants to tie the knot abroad, there are countless incredible places to elope in Scotland, and plenty of adventures waiting across the pond.

This guide will tell you everything you need to know to plan a Scotland elopement, and to start your next adventure!

Set a Date for Your Scotland Elopement

One of the first things you'll do when planning your Scotland elopement is set a date! Consider what you want your day to look like when it comes to seasons, weather, and privacy.

Weather in Scotland

The weather in Scotland changes a ton - throughout the year and across the country. A short drive can take you to a completely different climate and because the weather is unpredictable, they say you can experience all 4 seasons in one day! So, regardless of the season you choose, it’s best to be prepared for a little bit of everything - lots of layers and a good waterproof jacket are a must.

Summer in Scotland is the warmest time to go. Along with the ideal weather, Scotland experiences “The Summer Dim” from early May to early August, meaning that the sun sets just below the horizon and the sky never gets fully dark, giving you a ton of extra daylight  time to explore the beautiful nature that Scotland has to offer. This is the most popular time of year to go, so there will probably be a lot of crowds.

Winter in Scotland can be sort of dark and gloomy due to short days, along with the rain and snow. Some mountain roads will be closed this time of year due to snow, and a lot of rural areas shut down tourism for the season so you won't be able to explore some of the more remote areas of Scotland. This time of year is great to go to if you want to explore the city, since they have tons of events going on. And if you're a snowbird, you can enjoy spending time in the mountains hitting the slopes or taking a winter hike!

Spring and fall are the shoulder seasons, where the weather is dry and you'll find fewer crowds. In the spring, you'll find lots of wildlife and beautiful wildflowers in the countryside. The fall brings its own beautiful landscapes of browns and golds. Hiking or cycling in both seasons is a pleasure! 

Avoiding Crowds When You Elope in Scotland

When you’re saying your vows, you probably don't want a bunch of strangers hanging! Luckily, I have a few tips on avoiding the crowds.

Like I said, if you go to Scotland during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall), you'll find that fewer people are around. But, you'll still get nice weather and gorgeous backdrops!

Another thing I like to suggest if couples want to avoid crowds for their elopement is to do a sunrise ceremony! You typically won't get as many people early in the morning, plus saying your vows as the sun comes up behind you is an incredibly cool experience.

The last tip I have for avoiding crowds is to plan your ceremony for a weekday! While people are busy going to work and school during the week, you likely won't see as many people out and about so you'll have a better time finding a spot with nobody around.

The Best Places to Elope in Scotland

Scotland is full of beautiful places to elope. It’s definitely hard to narrow it down, but here are a few of my favorites!

Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is an island that’s 50 miles long, with no more than 5 miles between the ocean on either side. The dramatic coastline surrounding the island makes this one of the most iconic spots in the country, and one of the best places to elope in Scotland! It has gorgeous medieval castles, rugged landscapes, and quaint fishing towns, and you can elope at the Fairy Pools, Old Man of Storr, or even the Harry Potter Bridge!

Glencoe

If you're looking for a quaint Scottish town that's close to nature and easily accessible, eloping in Glencoe might be for you. Not far from the town center, you can find babbling brooks, small lakes, and even wild deer! Glencoe is one of the best places to elope in Scotland in the spring, because the wildflower fields bloom, covering the countryside with pops of color. A few beautiful places to get married in Glencoe are Glencoe Lochan, Glen Etive, or Signal Rock.

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

For couples who want views of serene lakes and mountains for miles, without going too far from the city, look no further than Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park! You can hike up to the summit of Ben A'an, stand on the shores of Loch Lomond, or explore the small island of Inchcailloch.

How to Get Legally Married During Your Scotland Elopement

Typically when getting married abroad, it's easier to do your paperwork at home because international marriage laws can be a bit confusing!

If you decide to legally tie the knot when you elope in Scotland, here’s what you need. Plan to do these things in advance in case you come across any legal hiccups with your paperwork.

1. apply for a UK marriage visitor visa - £95 

2. register your marriage with the Scottish registrar - £70 

3. find a celebrant to officiate your wedding - £450

1. Get a Marriage Visa

You can apply for your UK marriage visitor visa online up to 3 months in advance and it can take about 3 weeks for a decision about your application to come back after you've submitted it. You'll only need to have a valid passport to apply for your visa, but having some proof of intent to register your marriage in Scotland can help move your application along.

2. Register with the Scottish Registrar

You'll need two M10 forms which you can print off and send by mail to the registrar that's closest to your ceremony location. You can declare your marriage up to 3 months in advance, so submit it early because you'll need to register it at least 28 days before your ceremony! With your form, you'll need your birth certificate, passport, a recent utility bill to prove your residence, names of 2 witnesses over the age of 16, and the name of your celebrant. If you don't have all of these sorted out, you can still submit your M10 forms to get the process started - just make sure to send them in later, so they can approve your marriage as soon as possible!

Find a Celebrant in Scotland

Every marriage ceremony in Scotland requires a celebrant to officiate your wedding. There are two types of celebrants - humanist and independent (aka civil). For an elopement, you'll want to look for a humanist celebrant since they can go anywhere to marry you.

Once the registrar approves your marriage, you'll receive a marriage schedule that you'll need to pick up from the registrar's office during open hours in the week leading up to your wedding date. This is proof that you can legally get married and is the legal document to be signed (in black ink) by you, your celebrant, and witnesses that you'll return to the registry office within 3 days after your ceremony.

Things to Do When You Elope in Scotland

Scotland has tons of outdoor activities to choose from if you're looking for an adventure! From hiking or skiing in the Scottish highlands to exploring the lakes on a white water rafting tour, you'll find something exciting for you and your partner to do together.

Go Hiking

There are thousands of beautiful hikes in Scotland, so you'll have plenty of options. Whether you want to take a coastal walk along the white sands of Achmelvich beach or hike to the peak of Stac Pollaidh to find 360-degree views of the Northwest Highlands, there's a hike for everyone. 

White Water Rafting

If you want to add a thrilling, adrenaline-filled experience to your trip, Scotland has some of the best rivers in Europe to go white water rafting! This 6-hour tour goes down the River Findhorn and even includes optional cliff jumping when you stop for lunch! If you're looking for something a little shorter, this 3- hour tour takes you down the River Tay, one of the most popular white water rafting rivers in Scotland.

Hit the Slopes

Ski season in Scotland generally lasts from December until April, but because the weather is super changeable, your best bet to make sure you get ample snow in the mountains is to go from January to April. Head up to Glencoe Mountain - Scotland's oldest ski resort with some spectacular mountain top views and it has runs for all skill levels. If you're more experienced, you might want to check out Nevis Range - Scotland's newest ski resort with the best backcountry skiing!

Scotland Elopement Packages

As an elopement photographer, I know how important this day is - you want a wedding that’s one of a kind, so my Scotland elopement packages are designed to help you plan every part of your day!

From location recommendations to creating a timeline, I'll be there every step of the way to help you have a stress-free day. If you're ready to elope in Scotland, contact me to book a free consultation call!

Canyonlands National Park Wedding Guide - How to Elope in Canyonlands

Located in southeastern Utah is one of the most unique national parks in the country - the dramatic desert landscape carved out by the Colorado River, with huge mesas, towering rock formations, and remote canyons. Canyonlands National Park is the perfect place to elope if you’re looking to get married in a way that’s truly one of a kind!

This guide will tell you everything you need to know to plan a Canyonlands National Park wedding, from the best places for an elopement ceremony to planning tips! 

Getting There

If you need to hop on a plane to get married in Canyonlands National Park, the closest airport is the Grand Junction Regional Airport. From there, it’s about two hours to drive to the park. You’ll definitely need a car, but the roads don’t require a 4x4 or anything fancy!

During your Canyonlands National Park elopement, I recommend staying in the nearby town of Moab. (If you’re interested in other parks near the town of Moab, check out my other blog about how to elope in Arches National Park HERE)

The Best Time to Get Married at Canyonlands National Park

One of the first things you’ll do to plan your Canyonlands National Park wedding is set a date! Before you decide, here’s what you can expect throughout the year.

Weather in Canyonlands National Park

Weather varies a ton in the desert landscape, so the time of year you elope will make a big difference! Here’s a graph of the weather averages in Canyonlands National Park.

As you can see, summers are really hot! During the day, the heat can get brutal, but if you elope at sunrise or sunset, you can beat the heat.

The best time to get married at Canyonlands National Park, for most couples, is going to be spring and fall. The weather is a lot more mild, so it’s perfect for outdoor adventures! 

Avoiding Crowds

Privacy is super elopement for an elopement day - and though Canyonlands National Park is a pretty busy location, there are a few things you can do to avoid the crowds.

The best way is to elope in the off season - winter. However, the weather can be harsh and this may not be ideal! Instead, consider tying the knot during shoulder season. Shoulder season refers to the time right before or right after the peak, when the weather is relatively nice but there are fewer people around. The most popular times to visit Canyonlands National Park are spring and fall, so shoulder season would be February to March, June, August, and November to December.

No matter when you elope, I recommend planning your ceremony for a weekday! There are always more people out and about on weekends, so this will help a ton. You can also plan to tie the knot at sunrise!

The Best Places for a Canyonlands National Park Wedding

There are countless gorgeous elopement locations around Canyonlands National Park - but there is a list of approved locations, and wedding ceremonies can only take place in these spots! Don’t worry, we can still take photos and explore afterwards, but for the ceremony, this is where you can actually tie the knot in Canyonlands:

• Grand View Point - up to 25 people

• Green River Overlook - up to 25 people

• Mesa Arch - up to 25 people

• Shafer Canyon Overlook - up to 10 people

• Pothole Point - up to 10 people

• Needles Campsite - up to 50 people

• Wooden Shoe Campsite - up to 25 people

• Split Top Campsite - up to 15 people

The Legal Stuff

There’s a little bit of paperwork to do if you want to get married at Canyonlands National Park! Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.

Canyonlands National Park Wedding Permits

Canyonlands National Park requires a wedding permit for all ceremonies - yes, even if it’s just the two of you! A permit costs $185, and you can find the application online.

You can see the most up to date location options and ceremony rules at NPS.gov. Getting a permit helps the park office keep track of what’s happening in the park, and ensure that all regulations are being followed!

Marriage License

To get legally married when you elope at Canyonlands National Park, you’ll need a marriage license. It needs to be from the state of Utah, but you can go to any county clerk’s office in the state. The closest one is the Grand County office, located in Moab.

You can find the application online here, and fill it out in advance. But don’t sign it yet! You’ll both need to go to the county clerk’s office in person, with a photo ID and $40. You’ll sign your application there, and you’ll get your marriage license right away. There’s no waiting period, so after this, you can get married! 

Officiant

Utah requires an officiant to sign the marriage license. You’ll need to provide their name when you apply, so make sure to get this figured out in advance! You can hire a professional elopement officiant, or have a friend or family member get ordained on ULC.org.

Witnesses

Along with the officiant, you also need two witnesses to make your marriage legal. They need to be over 18, so you can ask your guests, or your wedding vendors, or even any two people you run into throughout the day!

What to Do When You Elope at Canyonlands National Park

Eloping is all about the experience - no going through the motions, no following the mold, no being pressured into throwing a wedding for everyone but you to enjoy! So, when you tie the knot at Canyonlands National Park, plan an adventure you’ll remember forever. Here are some ideas for things to do!

A 4x4 Tour

In Canyonlands National Park, there are some roads that take a little bit of effort! These less traveled paths require a 4x4, and hopping in to adventure over the rocky, rugged terrain is a great way to experience the more remote areas of the park. You can rent your own vehicle, or take a tour!

Stargazing

Imagine ending your wedding day lying together, under a blanket of the brightest stars you’ve ever seen. Canyonlands National Park is remote and far from any big cities, so it’s dark and perfect for stargazing! If you want to see the Milky Way, your best bet is to plan your elopement for a new moon - any sliver of light will make it a little harder to see the stars.

Rock Climbing

Canyonlands National Park is a rock climber's paradise! So if you’re into that sort of thing, bring your gear and try out the sandstone towers at Island in the Sky. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, there are some routes for you! 

Canyonlands National Park Wedding Packages

Every couple deserves a wedding day that makes them head over heels ecstatic - and I’m here to take the stress off, be your planning assistant, your hype woman, and your adventure buddy!

As your elopement photographer, my job is to help with everything you need to plan the most amazing elopement - recommendations for places to stay, help with permits, creating a customized timeline, and so much more! If you’re ready to plan the wedding day of your dreams, contact me to learn about Canyonlands National Park wedding packages.

The Cost of Eloping - Elopement Budget Checklist

One of many myths about elopements is that they’re for couples who don’t want to spend money on their wedding day - that they’re a “cheap” way to get married. 

While elopements tend to cost significantly less than a traditional wedding, this happens because couples shift their priorities. Instead of spending money on things you won’t use again and paying for a big party that you hardly get to enjoy, eloping allows you to decide what’s important to you, and where you want to spend your hard earned cash!

This brings the cost of eloping down a ton - but this is still your wedding day, and I think that’s worth investing in. It’s all about deciding what’s important for your day, and what isn’t! In this guide, we’ll compare the cost of eloping to the cost of a traditional wedding, and go over what things couples include in their elopement budget.

The Average Cost of an Elopement

In the US, the average wedding costs over $30,000! That’s a pretty hefty price tag, and more and more couples are realizing that they just don’t want to shell out the cost of a new car for their wedding. 

The average cost of an elopement is a little harder to define, because every elopement is so different! Eloping means there are no rules, so your day is totally customizable. You can elope at the courthouse for just the cost of a marriage license, or you can fly across the globe to elope at a luxurious resort - and of course, the budget will look so different.

I’m a big advocate for investing in your elopement, and making sure that you’re prioritizing the experience you have. But, it’s not how much money you spend that determines the value! We’ll talk about what goes into an elopement budget later in this guide, but most couples who have an adventure elopement spend between $5,000 and $15,000, making the average cost of an elopement around $10,000.

Tips for Creating  an Elopement Budget

One of the first things you should do when planning any wedding is to come up with a budget! Sitting down with your partner and communicating your expectations and plans will ensure a smoother planning process.

To create your elopement budget, I recommend starting by talking about what your priorities are - what’s important to you for your elopement? You can both make a list of what you’re envisioning, and what you want your elopement day to include. I recommend actually writing this down to keep track! 

Include anything and everything that you can think of - in the beginning, it’s good to let your imagination run wild and dream big. Write down what kind of scenery you want to see, if there are places you want to consider for your ceremony location, any activities that you want to do, and anything that comes to mind. Make notes about things that are “must haves,” things that are “wants,” and things that you’ve thought of but aren’t set on. Talk together about what’s most important - for some people, what they wear for the ceremony is a priority, while others would rather buy a budget dress or suit and spend that money elsewhere. It’s all about deciding what matters to you! 

The Cost of Eloping vs. the Cost of a Traditional Wedding

Here’s a quick budget breakdown considering the average cost of eloping vs the cost of a traditional wedding!

Elopement Budget Checklist

When you’ve made a list of priorities, it’s time to create the elopement budget, and be specific about how much you’ll be spending! Not every elopement will include all of these things, but here are some things that can go into the elopement budget, and a more detailed breakdown of the average cost of eloping.

Wedding Permit

Some locations require a permit - this usually ranges from $50 - $400, though some places are free to get married in! NAtional and state parks usually have entrance fees as well, averaging $30 for national parks and $10 for state parks.

Ceremony Attire

Ceremony attire can include dresses, suits, shoes, and any other accessories that you want for your elopement! 

Wedding dresses for an elopement typically range from $500 - $2,000 if you go to a bridal shop. BHLDN and Daci Gowns are both great shops, offering tons of variety in styles for every budget. Lulus is a really amazing place to find dresses that are much less expensive, and you can even check your favorite stores for cute dresses that you could wear again. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of alterations, if necessary - these usually range from $100 - $1,000.

Suits come in every budget as well, usually ranging from $200 - $600 on average. For more casual elopements, you might also go with a simple button up and dress pants. The Black Tux is an amazing place to get your elopement suit, and Men’s Warehouse has a wide variety of styles. For gender neutral suits, Bindle and Keep is the best! Alteration costs can be a factor as well, ranging from $30 - $100 on average.

Hair and Makeup

At a traditional wedding, some couples pay for their wedding party or family members to get hair and makeup done as well, which can add up! For an elopement, it’ll likely be just one or both of you, which averages $200 - $500 per person.

Florals

Adding flowers to your elopement is a great way to instantly elevate the look and feel of your day. Florals can include bouquets, boutonniere, arch and arbor decorations, hair accessories, and matching collars for your dog! On average, a professional florist ranges from $200 - $1,000. 

Officiant

Some couples choose not to hire an officiant for their elopement (hi! I can legally sign as your officiant and I do this for my clients for free), but if you do go with a professional, they typically range from $100 - $500.

Food and Cake

Not paying for catering for 200 guests saves a ton of money! The food for your elopement day can range from a picnic with store bought ingredients or a private chef, ranging from $20 - $1,500. Getting a cake or other dessert is a fun way to celebrate on your elopement day, and can range from a $20 grocery store cake to a $300 one by a professional baker.

Vow Books

Even if you write your vows in the notes app, transfer them to a piece of paper! Even just scrap paper works great, and looks much better in photos, but you can also get cute personalized vow books for about $30.

Travel to Your Elopement Location

One of the things to think about when planning your elopement is how you’ll get to your location. Of course, this will vary a ton depending on where you elope. Think about plane tickets and rental car costs, if you’re traveling far from home!

Lodging for Your Elopement

You’ll need a place to stay, and a home away from home to come back to after a day of elopement adventures! You can often camp for free, or you can book a luxurious, relaxing resort at your elopement location. Of course, there are tons of options in between as well! In most places, Airbnb is the best place to find accommodations that are budget friendly, with the privacy and amenities you want on your day.

Elopement Activities

One of the most exciting parts of your elopement is planning the adventure you’ll have! You can hike, kayak, take a helicopter tour, rent a boat, snorkel, have a picnic, stargaze, and anything else you can possibly imagine. Your budget will vary depending on what you want to do, so think about what would make this day truly incredible.

Elopement Photographer

A photographer will be one of the biggest investments you make for your elopement, but it’s so worth it! Documenting these memories is so important, and being able to look back on your photos is something you’ll treasure forever.

My couples, on average, spend $4000 booking me. This includes planning assistance, location recommendations, and everything you could possibly need to plan your adventurous elopement - at any budget! Looking to start planning your elopement? Click HERE to contact me.

The Best Places to Elope in Arizona - Elopement Locations Masterlist

The red rock deserts, cactus gardens, deep canyons, towering mountains, and scenic rivers found in Arizona make the state a perfect backdrop for any adventurous couple. If you want your wedding day to be unlike any other - if you want to ditch the traditional venue and be surrounded by jaw dropping scenery as you read your vows, eloping in Arizona might be for you!

But with so many natural wonders, how do you choose just one spot to say your vows? While narrowing it down might still be a challenge, in this guide I’ll tell you the best places to elope in Arizona - so that you can start dreaming up your elopement and planning the adventure of a lifetime!

Best Places to Elope in the Desert in Arizona 

Of course, Arizona is best known for its vast desert landscapes. If you want to tie the knot amongst the red rocks, or the cactus gardens, or the desert canyons, here are the best places to elope in Arizona!

Monument Valley

On the border of Utah and Arizona is Monument Valley, a unique landscape made up of red rock formations and towering buttes, sculpted by millions of years of erosion. The desert has been the site of several old western films, and whether you take the winding road and drive through the valley, or you hike some of the trails, the views are one of a kind! The southwest is known for its incredible sunsets, and when the red rocks glow with the setting sun in Monument Valley, this place is no exception.

Grand Canyon National Park

The Grand Canyon is perhaps the most iconic landmark in Arizona, with it’s layered rocks telling the story of the Colorado River that carved through the landscape, forming the plunging canyon you see today. This is one of the best places to elope in Arizona for couples who want easily accessible but stunning views, as the park has several overlooks and short trails. But, there are also miles of long trails that lead you through the walls of the canyon - so whatever kind of adventure you’re looking for, you’ll find it at the Grand Canyon!

Saguaro National Park

You have to see them to believe them - the cactuses at Saguaro National Park tower at an average of 48 feet tall. They can get up to 70 feet high, and wandering through the park surrounded by the giant Saguaro’s is a surreal experience, and the unique landscape makes this one of the best places to elope in Arizona - especially in the spring, because the wildflower fields are in full bloom! 

Sedona

The town of Sedona is known for being a spiritual vortex - promoting healing, peace, and meditation! Sedona is full of artisan shops and local eateries, and the red rock formations that surround the town contain miles and miles of trails. Cathedral Rock is a popular place to elope, but there are tons of lesser known spots that offer some incredible desert views!

I have a whole guide on how to elope here. Click HERE to check it out!

Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is a popular spot close to Page, Arizona, where the Colorado River carved a horseshoe-shaped incisor through the rocky walls. If you elope at Horseshoe Bend, be sure to plan for a weekday, and have your ceremony at sunrise. Even then, you’ll run into some crowds, but it will help you get a little more privacy! (I also have a whole blog on how to elope in this city! Click HERE.

Best Places to Elope by the Water in Arizona 

If you’re eloping in the hotter months, getting married by the water will help you beat the heat! But no matter what time of year you elope, these spots are gorgeous, and perfect for couples who want to experience a different view of Arizona’s landscape.

Lake Powell

Lake Powell is located in the Glen Canyon Recreation Area, spanning both Arizona and Utah. There are several resorts along Lake Powell, providing a perfect place to relax during your elopement, and a cozy home base to come back to after a day of exploring. The rocky formations and cliffs peeking out of the water make this a unique spot along the Colorado River, and one of the best places to elope in Arizona - whether you want to explore the backcountry or relax by the water!

Watson Lake

Watson Lake is located in the city of Prescott, Arizona. The blue water surrounded by desert rocks and boulder formations offers some incredible views, and this is also the perfect place to go for couples who love to spend time on the water. You can rent kayaks or canoes, hike through the Watson woods, or rock climb!  

Best Places to Elope in the Mountains in Arizona 

The desert may be what Arizona is best known for, but there are also plenty of mountain views! Whether you want to hike or find an easily accessible overlook, these are the best places to elope in Arizona if you love the mountains.

Lockett Meadow

Lockett Meadow is a gem just outside of Flagstaff, offering views of aspen trees and pine trees that decorate the hills. In the spring, the wildflowers bloom, covering the landscape in bouquets of different colors! If you’re looking for a little more greenery, this is the perfect place to see some non-desert scenery, and there are mountain peaks to explore all around Lockett Meadow.

Mogollon Rim

The Mogollon Rim offers sweeping views, encompassing the different landscapes of Arizona. You can stand at the top of the 2,000 foot drop to see some of the most incredible scenery the state has to offer - pine forests, mountains, and the desert. The sunsets here are epic, and it’s one of the best places to elope in Arizona for breathtaking views and a variety of scenery!

Phoenix

Phoenix is the capital of Arizona, known for year round sunshine and warm weather! In the city, you’ll find luxurious spas and resorts that would make a great place to stay when you elope in Arizona, and just outside of town you’ll find some incredible mountain views. The Superstition Mountains aren’t your typical snow capped peaks, but the landscape combines mountain and desert scenery with the towering rocky mountains and cactuses all around. 

Tucson

The city of Tucson is surrounded by four mountain ranges, making it one of the best places to elope in Arizona for mountain views! The landscape of the Sonoran Desert  is unique, with giant cactuses sprawling across rocky hills, with mountain peaks in the distance. Catalina State Park is a less traveled spot just outside the city, with towing mountains and Saguaro cactuses.

Arizona Elopement Packages

There’s a lot to think about when it comes to finding the perfect place to elope. Good views, privacy to say your vows, maybe its proximity to a Chipotle… it can be overwhelming! But as an elopement photographer and an Arizona local who’s explored all the hidden gems and secret spots, I’m ready to help you find the best place for your elopement.

Contact me, tell me what you’re dreaming of, what kind of scenery you want to be surrounded by, and what your perfect wedding day looks like - and let’s make it come to life!

The Best Places to Elope in the Pacific Northwest

RUBY BEACH, WASHINGTON

The Pacific Northwest is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in the country - the top left corner of the US is jam packed with mountains, waterfalls, forests, coastal scenery, and more! Generally considered to include Washington, Oregon, and parts of Idaho and California, the PNW is the perfect elopement destination no matter what kind of adventure you’re looking for. 

In this guide, you’ll find the best places to elope in the Pacific Northwest, and a few tips for planning your unique day!

HURRICANE HILL, WASHINGTON

Best Places to Elope in the PNW for Mountain Views

The PNW has some of the most incredible mountain views - with jagged peaks, snow capped summits, and trails filled with alpine lakes and wildflowers. Here are the best places to elope in the Pacific Northwest for mountain landscapes!

North Cascades National Park, Washington

North Cascades National Park is less visited than Washington’s other parks, but it’s one of the best places to elope in the Pacific Northwest! The incredible scenery, along with the relative remoteness of the park makes it a great place to explore on your elopement day. Check out the Heather Maple Pass Loop for a gorgeous hike, or the Washington Pass Overlook for an easily accessible spot!

Mount Hood, Oregon

Mount Hood is Oregon’s most prominent peak, offering miles of trails for hiking and skiing, and plenty to explore! As the second most climbed mountain in the world, this PNW elopement location is perfect for couples looking to adventure - whether that’s summiting the mountain or strolling along the wildflower meadows below.

HOH RAINFOREST, WASHINGTON

Best Places to Elope on the PNW Coast

The rugged coast of the PNW is jaw dropping, with rocky beaches, dramatic cliffs, and sea stacks poking through the water.

RUBY BEACH, WASHINGTON

Ruby Beach, Washington

On the Washington coast, remote beaches sprinkle the shoreline. You can spot tide pools by the sea stacks when the tide is low and explore the beaches lined by pine forests, with Ruby Beach being one of the most popular spots on the Washington coast!

Brookings, Oregon

The beaches in Washington are remote and rugged, while the ones in Oregon are usually bordered by cute beach towns! Brookings is located in the south of the state, close to several rocky beaches. One of my favorite spots is the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, famous for the stone bridges that connect the sea stacks!

RUBY BEACH, WASHINGTON

Best Places to Elope in the Forest in the PNW 

The magical pines, towering Redwoods, and dense wooded groves found all around make for some of the best places to elope in the Pacific Northwest. Here are some of the most scenic backdrops!

Del Norte, California

In Northern California, just past its border with Oregon, you’ll find the incredible coastal Redwood trees, towering high above, reaching into the foggy mist that often rests close to the ocean. You can walk the trails through the trees, and end up on the rocky coast!

HURRICANE HILL, WASHINGTON

Olympic National Park, Washington

Olympic National Park covers nearly all of the Olympic Peninsula on the west coast of Washington. You’ll find incredible, diverse scenery - including woodsy forests. Check out the Hoh Rainforest, a mossy, temperate rainforest, or the pine trees that line the mountain sides at Hurricane Ridge!

HURRICANE HILL, WASHINGTON

Best Places to Elope in the PNW Desert

The desert may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the PNW, but on the east side of Washington and Oregon, you’ll find some incredible, unique landscapes!

Alvord Desert, Washington

The Alvord Desert is one of the most remote, best places to elope in the Pacific Northwest. The desert is several hours of driving away from anywhere, which means you’ll enjoy some solitude on your elopement day! The desert is surrounded by mountains, and there’s even a hot spring.

Painted Hills, Oregon

In eastern Oregon you’ll find a landscape that looks like it came straight from Mars! The Painted Hills are formed by different colors of sediment, creating striped hills and brightly colored layers. You can walk along the hills and feel like you’ve been transported from the PNW to another planet!

Best Places to Elope Near Hot Springs in the PNW 

Did you know that the Pacific Northwest has natural hot springs all over? I can’t think of anything more relaxing than a sunset soak to end a day of adventures!

Cougar Hot Springs, Oregon

The Cougar Hot Springs in Oregon are one of the best places to elope in the Pacific Northwest. Located in the national forest, there are several cascading pools of different temperatures, with clear blue water surrounded by pine trees.

Rocky Canyon Hot Springs, Idaho

The three tiered Rocky Canyon Hot Springs are close to Boise, Idaho, and offer hillside pools with views of the river! It’s a gorgeous place to relax, and the perfect place to spend your elopement day.

RUBY BEACH, WASHINGTON

Best Places for Waterfall Elopements in the PNW 

The waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest range from small streams to cascading falls - and they make some of the best elopement backdrops!

Columbia River Gorge, Oregon

The Columbia River Gorge has the highest concentration of waterfalls in the country, making it one of the best places to elope in the Pacific Northwest. The gorge borders Washington and Oregon, but the south side is more scenic, with more falls to see. Check out easily accessible places like Horsetail or Wahclella Falls, or hike a little to reach Punchbowl Falls or Oneonta Gorge.

Palouse Falls, Washington

Palouse Falls is located in the desert region of eastern Washington, with a huge waterfall plunging over the rocky landscape. It’s easily accessible, but crowded - so be prepared to navigate around other visitors if you elope here!

RUBY BEACH, WASHINGTON

Tips for Eloping in the Pacific Northwest

Eloping comes with some extra logistics - and here are some tips to make your elopement in the PNW absolutely perfect!

Be Prepared for Any Weather

The weather in the Pacific Northwest is infamously unpredictable - especially during the rainy season, which is pretty much any time that isn’t summer. October to June, you can expect rain most days in many parts of the PNW - but it’s often interrupted by sunshine, and rarely pours harder than a light drizzle. No matter when you elope, be prepared with rain gear and extra socks! If you’re hiking, trails are often muddy after long periods of rain. The good news is that the overcast weather makes for great photos, and it’s all part of the adventure!

Research Elopement Permits

Many elopement locations in the PNW (and everywhere else) require a permit to have a ceremony. The rules vary depending on the location, so after you’ve decided where you’ll elope, do some research and figure out if you’ll need a permit!

Hire a PNW Elopement Photographer

As an elopement photographer, along with documenting the best day of your life, I provide each of my coupoles with a customized list of the best places to elope! Some couples are looking for long hikes, others want a more relaxed day - some want hot springs, others want mountains. Contact me, and let’s talk about what you’re dreaming of for your day!

RUBY BEACH, WASHINGTON

Page, Arizona Elopement Guide - How to Elope in Page

A small town with BIG scenery and plenty to explore, Page is the perfect elopement location for any desert-loving couple who wants to elope amongst the slot canyons, plunging gorges, and rocky formations carved by centuries of river erosion. This Page, Arizona elopement guide will tell you all about how to elope in this unique town!

Getting There

Page is right on the northern border of the state, close to Utah. If you're flying in, you can land in the Page Municipal Airport and be right in town! But, The Phoenix International Airport is bigger and offers more flights, and is usually a cheaper option - it’s a four hour drive from Phoenix to Page, but you can plan to explore a little along the way as you head to your elopement location.

The Best Time to Elope in Page, Arizona

Before you set an elopement date, take a look at a weather report! Page is in the desert, which means the weather can get extreme. Here’s a graph of weather averages throughout the year.

Winter in Page, Arizona

As you can see, winters are definitely chilly! While daytime temperatures can be mild, mornings and evenings are much colder. This can be a great time for a Page, Arizona elopement because you’ll likely see a lot less people out and about. Just be prepared with layers, and be ready for some snow.

Spring in Page, Arizona

Page doesn’t have much of a rainy season, which means spring is a great time to elope! The weather is comfortable and not too hot, and it’s much less busy than the summer. Eloping in early spring gives you the most privacy, so you’ll be able to find a quiet spot to read your vows! Mornings and evenings can still be chilly, so bring layers.

Summer in Page, Arizona

Summer is definitely the most popular time to visit Page, so be prepared to run into some crowds. The weather can get really toasty during the day, so I wouldn't recommend this time of year if you plan to hike. But, if you want to elope by the water, the weather is perfect for a dip in the lake!

Fall in Page, Arizona

Fall is another great time for a Page, Arizona elopement. The weather cools down and gets much more mild, and the crowds get much smaller. This time of year is perfect for hiking and exploring outdoors!

Choosing an Elopement Location

There are so many gorgeous places for your Page, Arizona elopement - but here are a few of my favorites!

Lake Powell

Extending across Arizona and Utah, Lake Powell is one of the most iconic places in Page! It’s a reservoir where you can swim, water ski, cliff jump, hike, camp, take a boat tour through the canyon walls, and more. There are tons of resorts surrounding the lake, so you’ll find plenty to do when you elope!

Horseshoe Bend

I’m a little biased because I got married here! But Horseshoe Bend is a gorgeous spot in Page, where the Colorado River carved out a horseshoe shaped rock wall. This place has become really popular - so to avoid the crowds that gather at the cliff, you can take a plane ride over the canyon for some incredible views! Or, see the canyon from below with a rafting tour.

Alstrom Point

Alstrom Point is an overlook, offering some of the best views of Lake Powell! It’s a great place for off road adventures if you want to take the bumpy drive up to Alstrom Point, but you can also rent a houseboat for a unique elopement experience. Spend a few days on the lake, with views of this spot from below - you can even hop off the boat to explore a little!

Buckskin Gulch

This one is close to Page, and a great opportunity to explore a slot canyon! At over 20 miles long, Buckskin Gulch is the longest and deepest canyon in the Southwest - but don’t worry, there are plenty of shorter trails if you don’t want to go too far. The red sandstone and the unique curves of the rock walls make for a gorgeous walk!

Getting Legally Married in Page, Arizona

To get legally married during your Page, Arizona elopement, here’s what you’ll need! 

Marriage License

You can get your marriage license anywhere in the state, but Page is in Coconino County, so the closest place to get your paperwork is the Flagstaff county clerk’s office. You’ll both need to go in person, so plan ahead if you’re making travel plans! The license is $83 (this can vary if you go to a different office), and you’ll need an ID. You’ll get your marriage license right away, and it’s valid for one year!

Officiant

An officiant has to sign the marriage license. You can hire an elopement officiant to perform the ceremony, or have a friend or family member marry you! Getting ordained is quick, easy, and free on ULC.org, so if there’s someone you trust to officiate, this can be a fun way to include them in your ceremony. 

Witnesses

You need two witnesses to sign as well, but the only requirement is that they are over 18 - which means if you aren’t inviting any guests, you can ask any adult you see throughout the day! Your vendors can sign as witnesses, or you can ask someone at your elopement location.

Make Your Bookings

For your page, Arizona elopement, it’s best to make bookings as early as possible! Accommodations can get booked pretty fast, and vendors fill their calendars early.

Accomodations

For somewhere to stay during your elopement, there are plenty of options around Lake Powell! With resorts and hotels all around, you can find something with incredible views. But, for the best views, rent a houseboat! You can stay right on the lake, with gorgeous scenery, plenty of privacy, and a home away from home. 

Vendors

Elopement vendors are the key to a perfect elopement day! They’ll be there to help ensure everything goes according to plan, and take all the pressure of elopement planning off of you. Page is a small town, so you’ll likely be hiring vendors from outside the city - but don’t worry, one thing that nearly all elopement vendors have in common is that they love to travel! Here are some of my favorites.

Hair + Makeup: 

Heylo Beauty

Florist: 

Moelleux Events

Photographer: 

Yours truly!

Ready to Elope in Page, Arizona?

Your wedding day should be about the experience - it’s not just exchanging rings, it’s about spending time together doing something you love, and celebrating the beginning of your marriage! My mission is to make sure every couple has a stress free elopement day that reflects who they are as a couple - so if you’re ready for your Page, Arizona elopement, let’s start planning! Contact me, and we’ll talk about how to make your adventure happen.