Congratulations. You’ve decided to elope.
The increase in elopements has brought such joy to my little heart. I’ve always been partial to the off-beat rebellion type. The ones who forgo tradition and decide to walk their own path.
I have shot a number of elopements over the years, and seem to gravitate toward them more and more. Some choose to get married at an airbnb, or at home by the fireplace. Some choose to get married at city hall. Some choose to get married lakeside with a handful of guests. And some choose a real adventure – a hike up the hills and into the unknown. Even going as far as hopping on a plane and exploring a new country. This is by far my favourite. The intimacy of the wander through the forest to an unexplored location. Just you and your partner, and some crazy girl with a camera leading the way.
I thought it might be wise to gather some of the information for those considering an adventure type elopement, especially those that require travelling to another country. Although not all of this will be specific to your scenario, maybe some of this information will be useful!
CONNECT WITH AN EXPERIENCED PHOTOGRAPHER
Hey, that’s me! If you are heading into another country, having someone who has the knowledge in this area will be vital for helping you cross all your “T”s and dot your “I”s. Currency exchange, location regulations and permits, documents required, vendor connections etc. If this is offered as an all-in service then you can enjoy the process and relieve some of the stress!
CHECK THE WEATHER FORECAST FOR THE TIME OF DAY/YEAR FOR THAT LOCATION.
It might be sunny at home, but maybe you’re choosing a date in their rainy season. Also, when you’re up a mountain with no tree cover, how exposed to the elements are you? Will it be mid-day with full sun? Will it be sunset and the trees will hide all of the available light? Check with your photographer to consider all of the possible scenarios, and make sure there is a plan in place to accommodate all of the possibilities.
PACK LIGHT BUT PACK ACCORDINGLY.
Bring the essentials, but don’t overpack. Because what goes up, must come down.
WEAR SENSIBLE SHOES.
Heels and open toed sandals might look pretty, but they are not the best for hiking through loose gravel/rocks, smooth rocks (slippery), mud etc. If your pack allows for it, consider wearing hiking boots up and then changing into other shoes for photos or for the ceremony. Or do as I do and just go shoeless.
BRING SNACKS AND WATER, AND MAYBE SOME ADVIL.
Let me tell you, we hiked up once and the couple forgot water. It was a hot day and were up there for quite some time, which turned into a pretty bad headache for the bride. The last thing you want is to be feeling thirsty, hungry, or uncomfortable!
DRESS IN LAYERS
Maybe it’s a little cooler around that time of year. Having a jacket or sweater you can take off will make a world of a difference. And don’t be afraid to layer up with some long johns under your dress or pants. Mitts are handy and earmuffs are good if you want to keep your ears warm but limit messing up your hair! And for the unpredictable rain, throw in a plastic poncho just to be safe (and dry).
HANDWARMERS
You know those little packets that heat up? Yeah, those. Lifesavers.
LIGHTS
As the sun sets, the light disappears pretty quick – especially if the last leg of your journey is through the forest. Make sure you have something more to rely on for light other than a cellphone. Lanterns, headlamps, or a trusty flashlight. Batteries die, so be sure to have extras just in case!
WITNESSES
If you want to keep your elopement ceremony truly intimate but need two witnesses? Well, the good news is that your photographer and videographer can stand in as your witnesses. There are also places like Colorado that can have ANYONE as your witness, including your dog. Check with the elopement photographer for all of the requirements for the locations you have in mind.
BRING YOUR SENSE OF ADVENTURE
This is meant to be fun. It’s your day and you have chosen to go on this adventure together. Make the best of it, no matter what the day brings. The stories will outlive a lifetime. A seasoned photographer will capture your day from beginning to end, documenting all of the slow, intentional moments in a storytelling way. It’s not just about pretty portraits – although that’s a bonus! But being present with your partner, and soaking up the moments of the day… that’s the true beauty of an intimate elopement.
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