Grand Teton Elopement Guide - Elope at Grand Teton National Park

From winding rivers through valleys of evergreens, to pink sunrises against towering mountains, Grand Teton National Park is full of beautiful landscapes. For many adventurous couples,  a Grand Teton elopement is the perfect way to tie the knot! 

From choosing the day you'll say "I do" to picking the perfect spot for your ceremony, I’ve got you covered! This guide will help you figure out all the details, and tell you everything you need to know to get married in Grand Teton National Park.

Weather & Seasons at Grand Teton National Park

Choosing the date of your elopement is an important step in planning your perfect wedding day. Here’s what you can expect throughout the year, and things you can do in each season!

Winter Elopements at Grand Teton National Park

Snow drapes the Grand Tetons in the winter, making for a magical experience. Though most of the roads and campgrounds are closed, winter is the best time for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing - if you're the adventurous type, there's primitive winter camping near the Colter Bay Visitor Center in the winter. Since a lot of the park is closed to cars, there aren't as many people around which means, while you can't have your ceremony here, some of the best photo locations are a lot more private!

Spring Elopements at Grand Teton National Park

During the spring, there's usually still a bit of snow, so many roads don't open up until May 1st. You can still go snowshoeing and cross-country skiing early in the season, or wait until later in the season when you can go hiking and have your ceremony at the park.

Summer Elopements at Grand Teton National Park

Summer in the Grand Tetons is a perfect time for an elopement. In higher elevations, you might still find some snow, but by late July it's usually all melted - meaning it's a great time to hike any of the trails in the park! The warmer weather means more crowds at the park, so to get some more privacy, plan for a sunrise or sunset elopement, and try to pick a date that falls on a weekday.

Fall Elopements at Grand Teton National Park

Fall is a great time to elope in Grand Teton National Park - oranges and reds begin to frame the mountains, creating an unforgettable landscape! If you visit in September, you'll be able to see the park before it's covered in snow, but after the height of crowds have left the park after Labor Day. A fall elopement means there will still be moderate weather for hiking in Grand Teton - check out Paintbrush Canyon or the Teton Crest Trail!

Grand Teton Elopement Locations

At Grand Teton National Park, if your ceremony is less than 12 people, you can have your ceremony anywhere - however, even with a smaller ceremony, if you’re hiring a photographer (which you should!), you’re still limited to the pre-approved locations.

If you have your heart set on a certain spot that's not on this list, we can definitely adventure around the park to take photos after the ceremony. Here are the 6 locations where you can have your Grand Teton National Park elopement.

Schwabacher Landing

Sitting on the edge of the beaver ponds, Schwabacher Landing is one of the most beautiful elopement locations in Grand Teton National Park. The Teton Range perfectly reflects in the clear alpine lakes on a clear day, and they shine as the sunrise hits them each morning. This location is the least busy midday, but it's worth it to say your vows at one of the best sunrise views in Grand Teton!

Mormon Row

Once home to two settler farmers, Mormon Row is a historic site that gives visitors a look into the early 1900s western farming community. The historic buildings are set on wide-open fields, with views of the eastern front of the Tetons in the background. The North features an adorable pink stucco house and the South has a rustic wooden barn - both perfect backdrops for any elopement. Shoot for a sunrise or sunset elopement to avoid the crowds here, since this is a popular spot for other park visitors!

Mountain View Turnout

A field of flowers coupled with a view of the Grand Tetons in the background makes any elopement feel like a fairy tale. This location is usually much less busy, so you don't have to worry about crowds! 

Glacier View View Turnout

At Glacier View Turnout, you'll find an unobstructed view of 3 of the Grand Tetons’ incredible glaciers - Middle, Teepee, and Teton Glaciers. Saying your vows in a field of sagebrush with the Tetons behind you is really a dream come true for any couple. 

Snake River Overlook

One of the most popular locations in the Grand Tetons is Snake River Overlook - with the curves of the Snake River and the Grand Tetons in the distance, it's not hard to see why! A sunrise elopement will help you avoid the crowds, and if you're lucky, you might even get some pink clouds and the moon setting behind the Tetons.

Colter Bay Swim Beach

If you've always dreamed of a lakeside wedding, look no further than Colter Bay Swim Beach. The rocky shores of Jackson Lake are the perfect location to say "I do." There are views of the Tetons in the distance and who doesn't love a beach wedding? This is one of two swim beaches at Grand Teton National Park, so it’s great if you want to get in the water!

How to Get Legally Married During Your Grand Teton Elopement

Now that you've thought about when and where you want to have your elopement, it's time to do a bit of legal stuff to make your marriage official. In Wyoming, couples are required to show up to the county clerk's office together to pick up their marriage license. When you go to pick up your license, you'll need to bring your ID, a filled-out copy of Wyoming's Marriage License Questionnaire, and $30. There's no waiting period in Wyoming, so as soon as you get your license, you're ready to have your ceremony!

The closest office to Grand Teton National Park is in Jackson, WY. You'll need to make an appointment to get your license, and because it's a popular place for people to say "I do," make your appointment early and give yourself a little time before your ceremony in case you run into any hiccups in the process.

To make your marriage official, you need to have an officiant and two witnesses to sign your license. An officiant can be anybody who is legally able to officiate a wedding, so you can hire somebody or have someone you know get ordained through the Universal Life Church!

Grand Teton Wedding Permits

Having your ceremony at Grand Teton National Park isn't as simple as showing up and saying your vows. On top of paying your entrance fee, you'll need to get 2 types of permits to have a Grand Teton elopement - a Reserved Site-Specific Ceremony Permit and a Portrait Service Commercial Use Authorization Permit (CUA) - so let's talk about how to get those.

To get into Grand Teton National Park, each car must pay an entrance fee of $35 and your pass is good for 7 days. If you have an America The Beautiful Pass, it'll waive your entrance fees to the park - the pass costs $80 and gets you into every national park in the country for an entire year!

For all wedding photos, you'll need a $300 Portrait Service CUA permit. Your photographer will need to apply for this permit at least 30 days before your ceremony. For the ceremony, you'll need a reserved site-specific ceremony permit for $200. You'll need to apply at least 30 days in advance, so I'd suggest applying as soon as you set your date - the NPS accepts applications starting in February each year.

Grand Teton Elopement Packages

You want a wedding day that's as unique as your love, and I understand how important it is to make it special! My Grand Teton elopement packages are designed to help you plan a day that's stress-free and all about you.

From location recommendations to planning a timeline, to navigating the unique and kinda confusing permit requirements, I'll be with you every step of the way to make sure you have the best day ever! If you're ready to elope at Grand Teton National Park, or want to learn more about my elopement packages, contact me!

Also check out this LGBTQ+ wedding in the Grand Tetons that I blogged HERE.

10 LGBTQ+ Friendly Destination Wedding Locations for an Elopement

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!

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!