Congrats! You’ve chosen to elope and have managed to save yourselves from having to make all of the stressful decisions associated with a traditional wedding. Your choice to elope means usually means that the most challenging decision you’ll be making is where you’ll spend your elopement day. This can seem super daunting because Pinterest will have you convinced that there are well over a million spectacular destinations to choose from. This can have you scrolling for days thinking that the perfect location is waiting on the next page. But, remember, you decided to elope because you didn’t want the stress that came with a big wedding and a multitude of decisions.

Are you looking for more one on one guided help with finding the perfect location for your elopement and
know that you want meaningful images that tell the story of your day?

Reach out and let’s get started, I can’t wait to help you find your perfect elopement location!

Here are a few simple things to keep in mind when choosing your elopement location:

Determine What Is Most Important To Both Of You

Since you don’t need to worry about providing food, seating, and a dancefloor for upwards of 100 people, you have so many more options when it comes to your location. Since you’re going to be having a more intimate ceremony, it can be a great idea to each write a list of things that matter to you most to help you narrow down where you’d like to elope. Consider details like your number of guests, how far you’re willing to travel, and who will be your officiant (if you even have one). 

Choose Somewhere Meaningful

The sentimental value should be on the top of your list when choosing a location for your elopement. Try thinking of a place that you’ve both adored. Is there a place that immediately comes to mind? What makes it feel magical to you? Is it the spectacular views? Are you in love with the culture? For whatever reason, there’s something about that place that holds a deeper meaning to you both, so it might be the perfect spot for you to elope and share with those closest to you. 

On the other hand, it doesn’t even need to be somewhere you’ve been, especially if you’ve never had the chance to travel together. Maybe you’ve saved some locations while scrolling through Instagram, or you’ve made a Pinterest board of all the places you’d love to visit someday. Of all the places you’ve saved or discussed in the past, which ones got you the most excited? Don’t choose a place just because it’s trendy or someone else recommended it. Think of the activities, the food, and the culture that you both love, and choose a place you’ve always wanted to visit that fits your style. 

Be Mindful Of The Weather

A desert wedding can be absolutely breathtaking, but you want it to be the result of the incredible views, not the scorching heat. The same can be said for visiting a tropical location during a stormy season or a hilltop in the dead of winter. Consider the time of year you want to elope in and make sure that the temperature in that area is suitable for long periods of standing. Keep in mind that you and your guests may be dressed up for your wedding so remember to come prepared and dress for the weather. 

Find A Place With A Beautiful Views

If you’re going to do any sort of traveling, be it several hours by car or plane, choose a location with stunning views. Since this is among the most significant decisions of your wedding, make it count. With such a small party or no party at all, you can really go anywhere you’re able to get to by car or on foot. There is always a chance that you’re an adventurous pair of rock climbers that are willing to pack your finest clothes into backpacks as you scale a cliffside, but this often isn’t the case. You aren’t having an extravagant wedding, so take the extra steps to get some photos in locations that will still take your breath away for years to come. It’s always a great idea to hire a photographer that is excited to embark on this exciting adventure with you. 

If Inviting Guests Make Sure It’s Accessible For Them

While your guest list won’t be nearly as long as the one you might have had for a traditional wedding, you still want to make sure that the people you invite are physically able to come. Your shortlist will get even shorter if you choose a location that isn’t easily accessible or affordable to certain members of your group. At some point, you’ll ultimately need to make a decision about whether or not the location or certain friends and family members are more important to you. There’s no wrong decision, but it is one you’ll have to make if you’re hoping to elope somewhere more unique or exotic.

Don’t Overthink It

The truth is, you really can’t go wrong unless you overthink it. If you spend too much time worrying about whether or not one more hour of scrolling could have led to someplace even better, you’re only taking away your own enjoyment. This is where I come in to help. I send a broad questionnaire that helps to find what type of scenery, difficulty level and general area you’d like your location to have. Once filled out, I get to work on narrowing down a few location options. I go over your list of must-have details to help you determine whether your current dream locations pair with your criteria. You’ve spent the time dreaming, and I spend time doing the tedious work of location research to find you the perfect spot to say “I do.”!

Ready to elope but don't know where to get started? Hi, I’m Liz, I specialize in Pennsylvania elopement photography and planning. I help couples create an elopement day that’s intentional and stress-free by offering a supportive, knowledgeable and kind experience that includes vendor and location research, a comprehensive elopement guide and custom timeline curation, ensuring couples get beautiful photos while having an incredible time.