Eloping does not mean you have to be a minimalist, you can still incorporate typical wedding day elements into your big day. There are parts of a typical wedding day that some brides or grooms don’t want to cut out simply because they are eloping. There are no rules or expectations when you elope!

PEOPLE

Eloping no longer means the two of you secretly running away and getting married. Times have changed and what elopements look like have also changed! You can bring people to your big day. Some people want their parents there, some want their siblings there, while others simply want themselves and their dogs. There is a rule of thumb (may change according to the photographer’s view) on how many guests make up an elopement vs. how many guests make up a microwedding.

Elopement-10-15 guests.

Microwedding- 20+ guests. 

There is no right answer here. I am writing this so you understand that people are allowed at your elopement, if you want them to be. I suggest that you and your partner sit down and make sure that you’re on the same page with having guests at your elopement. 

***Some locations will not allow guests for the ceremony, make sure your photographer looks into this aspect before choosing a location!

FLOWERS

Bouquets and/or boutonnieres are a beautiful touch to any elopement. I’ve had couples do fresh flowers that they pick up the day of their elopement or those who have used dried/wood flowers. I always suggest making a vision board for your elopement day and getting an idea of what you want for your bouquet. 

If you choose to have a bouquet, a fun idea is to keep them and send them off to someone to press and frame them!

Link to press your flowers here!

FOOD AND DRINK

The day of your elopement can be as busy or as casual as you want it to be. Regardless, you will be eating the day of your elopement. I love when couples have a vision of a lake side picnic and we make it happen. As a photographer, I often bring items such as a thermos and blanket for times like this. 

Getting to sit down and eat some of your favorite snacks can make the day that much more enjoyable! 

Some Items to Consider…

• Charcuterie Boards (meat and cheeses)
• Pizza (find a local pizzeria and order take out)
• Sandwiches
• Cake
• Champagne
• Local Beer

All items are welcome and should be suited to fit your guy’s taste! I provide items such as plates, cutlery and glasses! 

DETAILS (for detail photos)

Everyone has seen the beautiful and unique detail photos for almost every wedding day. You know the one, the rings, vow books, shoes, veil, jewelry… literally all the things! You can totally have that too! Bring the small, special items to your elopement. Whether it is hand written notes/vows, your hiking boots, rings, anything at all. Your photographer will be able to work their magic and create some stunning detail shots for you!

As someone who eloped I wish I would have included more special touches to my day. There were elements of a typical wedding that I felt I missed out on and could have easily incorporated in. I want to help you plan the perfect elopement day, right down to the smallest of detail.