If you’re thinking about eloping, you’ve probably thought to yourself, “What does an elopement ceremony look like?” While elopements once carried a negative connotation (i.e., running to Vegas to get married in secret), the meaning has evolved over the years. These days, eloping is more about creating a wedding experience that breaks away from tradition and truly reflects who you are as a couple. Still, it’s perfectly normal to feel some uncertainty when planning your special day. While there’s no one “right” way to elope, here’s a glimpse of what your elopement ceremony could look like!
Elopement Ceremony Key Elements
Well, what does an elopement ceremony look like? Everyone’s will look a little different, but most will contain these elements.
Location
One of the biggest advantages of an elopement is that you have complete control over where you choose to get married. Whether it’s next to an alpine lake, on a building rooftop in the city, or in an Airbnb in the forest, you’ll need to find a location to say your vows and tie the knot.
If you’re planning to get married on public land or in a national park, some spots do need to be chosen ahead of time to secure the required permits. But when it’s allowed, I love exploring with couples the day-of to find a place along the trail that feels just right. Sometimes, when it comes to your elopement ceremony location, you’ll just know it when you see it.
Guests
You get to decide if (and how many) guests you’d like at your elopement ceremony. You might choose to invite your closest family and friends to witness your vows, or opt for a more private moment with just the two of you. For an even more intimate experience, some states allow self-solemnization, meaning you can legally marry without an officiant or judge.
Vows
When it comes to exchanging your vows, there are a few options to consider. You can go with traditional wedding vows if you prefer something classic and time-honored. For a more personal touch, feel free to write your own vows to reflect your unique relationship. And if spoken vows aren’t your style, that’s perfectly fine too, and you can choose to skip them altogether. It’s entirely up to you.
Legal Obligations
When it comes to the legal aspects of your elopement, this part can feel a little intimidating, but don’t worry—that’s where I can help! Each state has their own rules when it comes to marriage licenses, permits, officiants, and witnesses. I’ll walk you through all the details during our planning process to help make the process as smooth and simple as possible .
Also fun fact: I’m a registered officiant, which means I can legally marry you, making the process that much easier! Whether you’re looking for a simple ceremony or want something more personalized, I’ll be there to help make your elopement as meaningful and special as possible. And when it comes to witnesses, don’t worry. Many times, we can find friendly hikers on trail who are more than happy to help.
Ways to Make Your Elopement Ceremony Meaningful
One of the best things about eloping is that you can create a day that truly reflects your relationship. Here are a few ideas to help you bring extra meaning to your elopement.
- Personal Rituals: From reading letters to performing a handfasting ceremony, you can choose to incorporate personal rituals or traditions that symbolize your relationship.
- Incorporating Values: Whether it’s a cultural tradition, a personal value, or a shared hobby, feel free to weave what matters most to you into your ceremony.
- Including Loved Ones: If you invite guests, you can make them a meaningful part of your day by asking them to read portions of the ceremony or share personal messages of love and support. Even if your family and friends can’t be there in person, there are still lots of opportunities to include them in your elopement. Handwritten letters, video messages, or even a FaceTime call are thoughtful ways to involve your loved ones on your special day.
Elopement Ceremonies I love
I’ve had the honor of capturing many beautiful elopements across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Here are a few examples of couples who fully embraced the spirit of what an elopement ceremony can look like.
Casey + Jeremiah’s Mt Rainier Elopement
Music has always played a meaningful role in both Casey and Jeremiah’s lives, so they chose to serenade each other during their Mount Rainier elopement. This heartfelt musical moment made their day feel even more intimate and uniquely their own.
River + Jordan’s Oregon Cliffside Elopement
River and Jordan couldn’t imagine getting married without their dog Ruby by their side, so they brought her along for their special day. They hired Wags and Garland to chaperone her throughout the day so she could watch her parents get married along the Oregon Coast.
Lacee + Chris’ Lake Crescent Elopement
Along with celebrating their elopement surrounded by loved ones, Lacee’s mom had the special honor of officiating the ceremony. They also added a playful, personal touch with umbrellas they brought back from a recent trip to Japan.
My Approach to Elopement Ceremonies
Eloping is about reclaiming your day and making it truly your own. I’m here to bring a calm, supportive presence so you can soak in every moment of your special day. I love focusing on creating a meaningful, unforgettable experience you’ll cherish for years to come.
At the end of the day, your elopement is all about you! No matter what your elopement ceremony looks like, you get to make the day your own. And that’s all that matters.
For more elopement inspiration, check out these elopements at some of my favorite venues in the PNW!
Ready to start planning the details for your own elopement ceremony? Click on the link below to inquire!