When you hear the word “eloping” you probably think of a couple hiking and saying their vows on a mountain. But it is so much more than that. There are so many elements of an elopement day that people aren’t aware of. Those who elope aren’t always aware of the different elements that they can include on their big day that can make it feel that much more special. Here are some elements to include on your elopement day if you are looking for special and meaningful touches. 

Having friends and family write letters to read.

Not everyone runs away and elopes without telling the people in their life. I’d argue that that is actually rare. Many people are letting their loved ones in on their excitement. I love when couples ask their friends and family to write them letters to read the morning of their big day. It really builds up the anticipation and it also helps the couple feel the love that others have for them and their relationship. These letters can be their best recommendations for a happy marriage, stories from your relationship or just their heartfelt wishes for your future together. I promise this is going to be a tear jerker!

First Looks 

This is such a special moment for any couple. This is not just for those having a traditional wedding. Many people think that this is not possible as couples are usually staying in the same room/Airbnb leading up to the elopement day, but it is absolutely possible. I have grooms get ready first and chill outdoors or somewhere that they can’t see the bride getting her dress on. Then the bride slips in her dress and we choose somewhere outdoors to do the first look. Every elopement first look that I have been a part of has felt just as special as the first looks of a traditional wedding day.

Picnics

Elopement days can be filled with activities such as hiking and can be so exciting that people forget to include time to replenish and eat! This is when I suggest setting a time for a picnic. The shores of Lake Superior can be a great location for this! I suggest couples packing something like cheese, meat and fruit or sandwiches. I usually bring a picnic blanket and have some cute touches to make the scene a bit more romantic. We can also do a cake cutting at the picnic to make it even more special and fun! This is a great way for couples to slow down and enjoy their day.

Choosing activities that are more than hiking. 

Hiking is an amazing way to experience the North Shore of Minnesota. But let me tell you, there are so many other activities you can be adding into your big day! Some activities that I love to see are paddleboarding, swimming (these can be done at the end of the day when you don’t mind your dress getting wet), fishing, brewery hopping, skiing and so much more. I love when couples bring their own ideas as well, this day should be filled with things that you enjoy together!

Hire a private chef.

It is no secret that I am a total foodie and I think that it is such a unique experience to hire a private chef for yourselves. Most couples I have worked with book an Airbnb, so having the chef come to your location after your adventurous day is so nice as it takes the stress from having to find a place. You can eat right in the comfort of your space and then relax after.

These are two awesome private chefs that you should definitely check out:

https://www.thegiftedgourmetmn.com/ 

https://www.rosemaryandpepper.com

Getting Tattoos:

Whether it is matching tattoos on your left fingers or different tattoos that are simply meaningful to you guys, it is such a unique thing to do! My husband got the Bible Verse from our elopement tattooed on his finger, mainly because he lost the ring two days after our elopement, so he won’t be losing this one. There are so many great tattoo parlors on the North Shore to check out. This is an experience you can get captured by your photographer as well!

There are no rules when eloping. You don’t have to follow any expectations, so make this day your own. Fill it with activities and elements that suit you two and your relationship.

I can’t wait to help you plan your perfect day!