What Does It Really Mean to Elope?
Traditionally, the word “elope” meant to run away secretly to get married—often without telling anyone. But that definition has evolved in the best way.
Now? Eloping means choosing you. Choosing a day that’s intentionally yours, with no pressure, no performance, and no expectations. It can look like a barefoot ceremony on a mountaintop, a quiet vow exchange in the forest, or sharing your day with your closest few in a beautiful place that makes you feel free.
Whether you’re dreaming of an adventurous escape for just the two of you or a relaxed, intimate day with a few loved ones, eloping is about creating a wedding experience that feels like you. Unscripted. Intentional. Magical.
If you’re here, you’re probably dreaming about eloping—or wondering if it’s the right fit. Either way, I’ve got you. This guide walks you through the steps of how to elope, from daydreaming to planning, and everything in between.
How to Elope: Your Step-by-Step Guide
1. Dream It Up
Start with a cozy night in and dream out loud. What kind of scenery makes your heart skip a beat—mountains, ocean, forest, desert? What season do you picture yourself in? Sunrise or sunset vows? Are you envisioning a full-day adventure or something simple and slow?
Write it all down—no limits, no rules. Just dream big. Most couples bring me in around this step, and I help take their vision and shape it into a real, beautiful, stress-free elopement. You don’t have to figure it all out alone—I’m here to guide you.
2. Map Out the Logistics
Once your vision is feeling clear, it’s time to set a budget and get into the details. Research:
- Travel costs (flights, rental cars, ferries)
- Accommodations
- Vendor pricing
- Permits or park fees (especially for national parks)
- Gear or attire you may need
This is where having a photographer who doubles as a planning guide (👋 that’s me!) becomes so helpful. I help my couples build a timeline, choose the best lighting, location, and season for their vibe—and recommend trusted vendors I’ve worked with.
3. Sort the Legal Stuff
This part depends on where you’re eloping! You’ll need to check:
- Marriage license requirements
- Waiting periods
- Witness rules
- Who can legally officiate (you can even have a friend or family member get ordained in some places!)
Pro Tip: If you’re traveling from out of province or country, it’s often easier to sign your paperwork at home before or after your elopement day. That way, your actual day can be about the experience, not the paperwork.
4. Book Your Travel + Vendors
Once your location is set, book flights, accommodations, and your dream team of vendors as early as possible. Booking early:
- Reduces stress
- Helps you space out payments
- Ensures your fave vendors are still available
Want your day to be low-stress and luxurious? I offer all-inclusive Alberta elopement packages that bundle photography, planning guidance, florals, hair + makeup, officiant, and more—so you can just show up and enjoy the magic.
5. Plan the Ceremony
This is where the magic happens. Think about:
- What time of day you want your ceremony
- Whether you want to exchange personal vows or keep things short + sweet
- What you’ll wear (I’ve got a client closet to help you out!)
- If you want florals or a picnic setup
- Who you want to include (if anyone)
- Activities that matter to you—like hiking, kayaking, or soaking in a hot tub post-ceremony
This part is entirely customizable. Elopements aren’t one-size-fits-all. They’re built around what feels right for you.
6. Final Touches
With your day approaching, now’s the time to finalize:
- Your elopement timeline (I create this with you!)
- All booked vendor details
- What you’ll pack (don’t forget your rings + vow books!)
- Any extra experiences you want to add (sunset picnic? first dance under the stars?)
7. Throw a Post-Elopement Party (Optional)
Some couples choose to celebrate with friends and family later—this could be a backyard BBQ, an intimate dinner party, or a full-on reception. It’s a great way to share your photos, tell your story, and celebrate without the stress of doing it all in one day.
8. Elopement Day—It’s Here!
This is it. The day you’ve been dreaming of. You’ve done the work, made the choices that feel right, and now you get to just be. Be present. In love. Be yourselves.
I’ll be by your side every step of the way—guiding, photographing, and cheering you on through every breathtaking moment.
9. Make the Announcement
Whether you eloped in secret or had a few witnesses, you can still let the world know however feels best:
- Social media post
- Custom elopement announcement cards
- Hosting a dinner party reveal
There’s no wrong way to share the news—just what feels right to you.
Elopement Do’s & Don’ts
| DO’S | DON’T |
| ✔️ Prepare for reactions. Not everyone will get it—and that’s okay. This day is about you. | ✖️ Forget to handle the legal stuff. Double check everything early to avoid last-minute hiccups. |
| ✔️ Invest in your experience. Hire a photographer, videographer, and planner who will bring your vision to life and make the day flow seamlessly. | ✖️ Assume eloping = super cheap. Eloping can save money, but it’s still an investment. Budget for the experiences and vendors that matter most to you. |
| ✔️ Choose meaningful witnesses. If your location requires them, pick people who fully support you—or ask your vendor team to sign (I’ve witnessed plenty!) | ✖️ Downplay your day. Eloping is just as special and real as any big wedding. Let it be meaningful, emotional, and absolutely worth celebrating. |
Looking for a Photographer Who Does More Than Just Take Pretty Photos?
I’m Allie—a certified professional photographer who helps couples craft intentional, unscripted elopement days that feel like them. From location scouting and timeline help to vendor recs and florals, I’m with you every step of the way.
Let’s dream something magical up together.
Inquire below and let’s start planning your one-of-a-kind elopement.
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