The Biggest Mistakes Couples Make After Deciding to Elope (And How to Avoid Them)
So, you’ve decided to elope—heck yes! No guest list drama, no seating charts, just an intimate and intentional day focused on you two. But before you dive into planning, let’s talk about a few common mistakes couples make after choosing to elope. I’ve seen it all, and trust me—avoiding these will make your elopement experience so much smoother and stress-free.
1. Not Hiring a Photographer Early Enough
Elopements may be smaller in scale, but that doesn’t mean you should wait until the last minute to book your vendors—especially your photographer. The best photographers (especially those who specialize in adventure elopements) book up fast. If you have a dream location or a specific season in mind, waiting too long could mean missing out on the photographer whose work really speaks to you.
Beyond just capturing your day, a great elopement photographer often helps with location scouting, timeline planning, and even offering guidance on permits. They’ve done this before and know how to create an experience that feels seamless and stress-free. Plus, having a photographer who truly understands your vision can make a huge difference in how your elopement day unfolds.
How to Avoid This:
Start looking for a photographer as soon as you choose your elopement date (or at least your general timeframe). If you’re flexible on dates, ask your photographer what availability they have for your dream location. And don’t be afraid to reach out early—even if you’re still ironing out details, having a photographer secured means you have an expert to help guide you through the process.
2. Underestimating Travel & Timing
Elopements may feel spontaneous, but they still require planning—especially when it comes to how you’ll get to your location and how much time you’ll need. A breathtaking mountaintop ceremony sounds dreamy, but if you underestimate the time it takes to hike there (or forget to factor in sunset lighting), you might end up feeling rushed or stressed instead of present and in the moment.
Some locations require long drives on rough terrain, while others have strict opening hours or limited parking. I’ve seen couples who assumed they could just show up, only to realize they needed to wake up at 3 AM for a sunrise hike—or that the road to their location was closed for the season.
How to Avoid This:
When choosing your elopement location, research how long it takes to get there, what kind of transportation is needed, and if any permits or reservations are required. If you’re hiking, add extra time for breaks, outfit changes, and unexpected delays. And always have a backup plan in case of road closures or weather shifts!
3. Forgetting About Permits & Legalities
Some of the most breathtaking elopement spots require permits, and nothing kills the mood faster than a park ranger telling you that you can’t have your ceremony there. In addition to location permits, many national and state parks also require special-use permits for photography.
Then there’s the legal side of things—marriage laws vary depending on where you elope. Some states allow you to self-solemnize (which means you don’t need an officiant), while others have residency requirements, waiting periods, or specific witness rules.
How to Avoid This:
Once you have a location in mind, check with the park service or local government about required permits. Many photographers (myself included!) help couples navigate the permit process so they don’t have to worry about missing any important steps. And for marriage legality, research the state’s requirements early so you can plan accordingly.
4. Thinking an Elopement Has to Be Just the Ceremony
Eloping doesn’t mean your day has to be a quick exchange of vows and a couple of photos. Your elopement is still your wedding day, and it deserves to be special, memorable, and full of meaningful experiences.
Some couples assume that because they’re skipping the big wedding, they shouldn’t plan anything beyond the ceremony. But an elopement is your chance to craft a day that reflects your love story—whether that’s hiking through the mountains, having a picnic at a scenic overlook, or celebrating with s’mores by a campfire.
How to Avoid This:
Think about what would make your elopement day feel truly you. Maybe you want to start the morning with a sunrise coffee date, take a scenic drive together, or end the night stargazing. The beauty of eloping is that there are no rules—so dream big!
5. Not Dressing for the Elements
Your elopement outfit should be stunning and practical. A heavy wedding dress might not be the best for a desert elopement, and a lightweight suit won’t keep you warm on a chilly mountaintop.
I’ve seen couples shivering through their vows or struggling to hike in shoes that weren’t made for uneven terrain. While you might be focused on how your attire looks in photos, how you feel in it matters just as much.
How to Avoid This:
Dress for the season and location. If you’re eloping somewhere cold, bring warm layers (even thermal leggings under a flowy dress). If you’re in a warm climate, opt for breathable fabrics. And for outdoor locations, comfortable shoes are a must—you can always swap them for dressier ones once you reach your spot.
6. Not Having a Backup Plan
Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate, and if you’re eloping outdoors, it’s crucial to have a Plan B.
Wildfires, unexpected snowstorms, or trail closures can throw a wrench in your plans. Without a backup, you might find yourself scrambling for a new location at the last minute.
How to Avoid This:
Choose an alternative location ahead of time. Talk to your photographer about backup options and stay flexible—sometimes the unexpected can lead to an even more magical experience!
Bonus: Skipping an Engagement Session
You might think, “We’re eloping, so we don’t need an engagement session,” but hear me out—this can be a huge missed opportunity!
An engagement session isn’t just about getting cute photos—it’s about getting comfortable in front of the camera before your elopement day. It helps you and your photographer build a connection, so by the time your elopement rolls around, you’ll feel totally at ease.
Plus, engagement photos can be used for announcements, invitations, or even just as a fun way to document this exciting chapter in your lives.
How to Avoid This:
Consider booking an engagement session with your elopement photographer. It’s a great way to ease into the process, shake off any camera nerves, and capture another special part of your journey together.
