How to Elope in the Outdoors
So you want to get married.
Now what?
Getting Married Should Be an Authentic Experience
I mean what I said. Your wedding day shouldn’t be the crazy, complicated experience that some weddings can be. But if you’ve never planned a wedding or elopement, it probably feels overwhelming. As an adventure wedding and elopement photographer, I’ve photographed tons of elopements, so I know exactly what you need to do to get started. Permits? Locations? Ceremony sites? Outfits? Here’s where I come in.
but I’ve never eloped?!
We Got You—Here’s How to Elope
Hit Up a Photographer
Dates and locations are important, but all those things and more can be assisted by the right elopement and wedding photographer. Once you’re booked, we can begin planning together.
date +
location
You can come to your photographer with this information, or they can help you. Either way, a photographer will help you nail down the details of where and when to elope.
permits +
licenses
Most outdoor locations require a permit that you’ll want to get ASAP. You’ll also need to obtain a marriage license in the county you’re getting hitched in.
find your
vendors
Here’s where the fun begins! Dresses, suits, florals, decor, invitations, jewelry, shoes and more. But don’t forget one of the most important parts—your officiant.
Why Do People Elope?
When you think of your wedding day, do you think about celebrating in a way that fits you and yours? Do you think about an epic hike, or a beautiful sunrise? Do you dream of being married in a National Park? Your love deserves a great adventure, and you deserve a wedding day that’s just yours.
How Much Time Do You Need for Your Elopement?
Planning elopements can be an overwhelming experience. I should know—I planned one myself. We all know how a traditional wedding day goes—but when you decide to elope and have a wedding day that’s authentic to you, all the typical standards and traditions go out the door.
Can’t Decide Between a Wedding or Elopement?
Why Not Do Both!
Lots of people want to get married exactly the way they want to, but don’t feel like they can. You’re not the first person to encounter the stress of deciding. How do you balance compromise and standing your ground?
Fun Activities for Your Elopement Day
I adore elopements. It’s all the fun of a wedding day—plus greater freedom to celebrate the day however you want. But once couples realize they are untethered from tradition, they often have trouble figuring out what to do exactly. And that’s A-OK.
Elopement FAQ
-
Absolutely! There's so many to choose from, but we have guides for Joshua Tree and Death Valley, with more coming soon. And don't worry—we'll help you plan your epic National Park wedding. From weather to permits and more, planning your wedding doesn't have to be difficult. Reach out with any specific questions you may have at loveandlat@gmail.com or check out our blog.
-
Absolutely! There's nothing I love more than capturing a happy couple in the locations they find beautiful or special to them. Please inquire about my availability.
-
Not to worry! I'll travel to where ever my clients need me. Or, you can check my travel schedule on Instagram to see where I'm already heading. Travel rates are waived for places on my schedule.
-
For couple and family sessions, dress with a blend of your style and your comfort! If a sweater and jeans is what you feel comfortable in and what makes you feel beautiful, go for that! Dress it up hats, scarves or statement jewelry. If this is your chance to don that long, flowy dress you’ve been hanging on to, or that super fancy button up, go for it!
Coordinating colors that work well together, or mixing muted patterns with textures is a great way to match without wearing the same exact color combos. Think about colors that compliment each other - navy blue with maroon, rich tans with forest green, and burnt orange with off-white.
Skip hair ties on your wrist, Fitbits, Apple watches, and dark glasses or transition lenses. Feel free to incorporate meaningful items such as champagne, blankets, or important memorabilia.
Feel free to get inspiration from past events you’ve been to, other couples you know, or even my own Instagram feed! And reach out if you have specific questions.
-
No, but we'd certainly appreciate it! Buying prints through us ensures that you get the top quality and help support our small business.
-
The short answer is yes! We love it when you bring your furry friends to photoshoots. Every dog is different, and as the owner, you know what your dog can handle and what they can’t. If you do decide to bring your dog, check out our "How to Bring Your Dogs to Photoshoots" blog to get tips and tricks on how to make your experience with your pup the best one!
-
Love and Latitudes wants to capture your day, your way. We do not discriminate based on gender, religion, ethnicity, or political preference. We welcome all people because we believe love transcends all. Whether photographing elopements or family sessions, we believe in capturing YOUR story. Love is unique to each couple, and we want to capture YOUR beautiful day.
-
Absolutely! Vendor recommendations are something I provide to my clients upon signing a contract.
-
Believe it or not—John Lennon of the Beatles was camera shy! Everyone is, and as your photographer I will guide you through poses that will make you feel comfortable and beautiful, while capturing the amazing images you deserve.
-
We currently spend most of our time in Southern California, but we live in a van! Chances are, we're traveling to your wedding from the Southwest.
Elopement Guides for California & Southwest
Leave No Trace, Leave it Better
We are dedicated to protecting and preserving the areas we enjoy. From our scouting trips, to our own trips, to your wedding day, we make sure to live up to the leave no trace principles.
The Outdoors Is for Everyone
We believe in helping you have the best wedding, and we couldn't do that if we weren't inclusive. We welcome everyone who wants to celebrate in the great outdoors. Love transcends all.
Featured On
Stay Connected with Love & Latitudes
Not ready to commit, but want to stay connected? You can stay in the loop with Love & Latitudes by signing up for our newsletter! You’ll get updates on new elopement guides, new blogs, print sales, travel schedule updates and more!