When choosing your Epic Elopement Location

Things to consider

1. Scenery + Views

Oh my gosh, can we talk about the epicness of eloping with the most breathtaking scenery ever?! Imagine getting hitched with a backdrop that’s straight out of a fairytale. So, what’s your dream setting? Are you vibing with the thrill of standing on top of a majestic mountain? Or do you get all the feels in a mystical, ancient forest where the trees seem to whisper secrets? Maybe you're all about the roar of a stunning waterfall, the grandeur of a canyon, or the drama of a cliff diving straight into the ocean. Think about the spots that make your heart race, fill you with awe, and give you that blissful, zen feeling.

We all know that the scenery is one of the biggest parts of an elopement, afterall its the backdrop for all your wonderful memories. So, don't rush this part. Take your time and really think about what you want that day to LOOK like.

2. Seasons + Accessibility

When it comes to choosing the perfect location for your elopement, the season is a total game-changer!  Remember, spring in the U.S. is fall in the Southern Hemisphere, so knowing what kind of weather and scenery you’re craving can really help you pin down the right date and spot. Whether you’re dreaming of cherry blossoms in Japan, a sun-drenched beach in Australia, or a cozy winter wonderland in Iceland, aligning your desired season with your chosen location is key. It’s like setting up your dream scene so everything is just right. Also, let’s be real—honesty with yourself about what kind of weather you’re comfortable in is crucial. If you’re not a fan of the cold, opting for a destination with harsh winters might not be your best bet. Make sure you’re fully informed about the climate and accessibility so that your elopement is everything you’ve imagined without any unexpected surprises. The goal is to have a magical, stress-free day, so choosing a location and season that fit both your vision and comfort level is totally worth the extra thought! 

When it comes to picking the perfect elopement spot, seasonal accessibility is a huge deal! Some stunning locations are only reachable during specific times of the year, like mountain passes that are closed in winter or beaches that are best enjoyed in summer. Plus, think about how you’ll get there—some spots require a rugged 4x4 vehicle or a serious hike to reach, which can be a blast if you’re up for an adventure! But if you’re not keen on roughing it or prefer a more relaxed day, you might want to choose a location that's easier to access. Being honest with yourself about what you're comfortable with is key—if a long drive or challenging trek sounds like your idea of fun, go for it! If not, make sure to pick a spot that fits your vibe and keeps the journey as stress-free as the celebration itself. 

3. Remoteness + Populatirty

When selecting your elopement location, it’s crucial to balance remoteness and popularity. In today’s social media world, many stunning spots are showcased over and over, often becoming tourist magnets. While these popular locations might look picture-perfect, they can quickly become overcrowded, potentially turning your intimate elopement into a less-than-private experience. If you're craving a more secluded and personal celebration, you might want to avoid these overrun spots.

On the flip side, venturing to more remote locations can offer the ultimate in privacy and uniqueness, but it may come with trade-offs in accessibility. Sometimes, the most breathtaking and secluded places require a bit of extra effort to reach, like a longer hike or a rugged 4x4 journey. But this extra effort can be so worth it for the serenity and personal touch you'll experience.

To gauge a location's popularity and privacy, try searching for it on Instagram to see how many tags or posts it has. This can give you a sense of how often it's visited and how crowded it might be. Striking the right balance between accessibility and privacy is key to ensuring your elopement day is everything you’ve dreamed of—an unforgettable experience in a place that feels like it was made just for you. 

4. Experiences + Activities

When choosing your elopement location, considering the activities and experiences it offers can turn your special day into something truly extraordinary. Imagine exchanging vows while riding horseback through the rolling hills of Montana, followed by a cozy campfire under the stars. Or picture a ceremony amidst the colorful hot air balloons floating over Cappadocia, with a champagne toast as you drift above the fairy chimneys. For a more laid-back vibe, envision a charming vow exchange in a secluded vineyard in the South of France, complete with a private wine tasting to celebrate. These unique experiences can make your elopement even more memorable and reflective of your personalities.

But remember, not every destination will offer the same experiences, and that's perfectly okay! If you’re not into extreme adventures like shark diving or glacier trekking, you don’t have to compromise on your dream elopement. You might prefer a serene forest ceremony in the Pacific Northwest with a quiet picnic under the towering trees or a romantic sunset vow exchange on a quiet vineyard in Tuscany. The key is to dream big but stay true to what truly excites you and your partner. Choosing a location that aligns with your vision and comfort level will ensure your elopement is as magical and memorable as you’ve always imagined. 

5. Guests

Including guests in your elopement can add a special touch, but it's important to consider how their presence impacts your choice of location. First off, think about accessibility. If you’re planning to invite family and friends, make sure the location is reachable for everyone. A remote destination might be perfect for an intimate ceremony, but if it requires a long trek or is difficult to get to, it could be challenging for your guests. Locations with strict guest limits also need to be on your radar—some stunning venues might only accommodate a small number of attendees, so you’ll need to balance your guest list accordingly.

Weighing the value of having guests versus keeping it just the two of you is key to choosing the right spot. If you’re leaning towards a more private celebration, you might opt for a location with limited accessibility or one that doesn’t accommodate many guests. Conversely, if having your loved ones there is essential, pick a spot that allows for a larger gathering and is easier to access. For more guidance on who to invite and how to manage your guest list, check out our blog post                                                       Finding the right balance will ensure your day is as meaningful and enjoyable as possible, whether it’s with a small, intimate group or just the two of you.