What is an elopement?

In the most basic terms, an elopement is a couple getting married where the ceremony and reception is super small and intimate- it's really centered around the couple and their love for one another. They are usually small, super small. There's not a lot of guests or witnesses. It's very intentional.

Lots of couple choose to have their elopement ceremony in truly meaningful places- which is a viable option because there's only a few of you there! I think a lot of people think about elopements in terms of adventure elopements- hiking to a mountain peak or going deep into a forest (which is great honestly and I'm totally game for that! Just sayin'...) BUT they can be really simple too. They can be in someone's backyard, a park, the beach, or yes, even the courthouse.

What makes an elopement amazing?

There are so many things that make an elopement a great choice. Let's take a look at a few:

  • The most obvious is that is can be extremely cost effective. You're not paying for a lavish venue and feeding 100s of folks- just that core group of folks that are there with you.
  • It can be a weekend long experience (or longer)!
  • It's a bit non-traditional. You make the rules, you say how it goes. There's no other opinions in the matter.
  • It's really centered on you and your love for one another.
  • A lot less stress
  • A very intimate vibe
  • Usually has a very go with the flow kind of vibe
couple sitting on rocks during elopement in virginia

Is an elopement right for you?

Truthfully, only you can decide that. No one can make that choice for you. The bottom line is that elopements are deeply personal events. It's an alternative to the traditional wedding. If that resonates with you, then yeah, I think you should consider it. If you want to really just tune in to the intimacy of the day, without the pressure of a large event, it may be right up your ally.

Does the idea of an authentic and fairly unscripted wedding day appeal to you?

Eloping gives you the chance to just strip away the formalities and celebrate the day in a way that feels oh-so-true to who you are- whether it be exchanging vows on a mountain top, a beach somewhere, a quiet forest, a garden, a lake, or your parents backyard.


If you're drawn to real, authentic, and raw experiences AND the idea of capturing unposed and unplanned memories resonates with you, then an elopement might be worth considering.

Need a photographer?

Need a photographer who is well versed in the unscripted, unplanned, and unposed for your elopement? I'm happy to help answer any questions you may have and put together a custom quote for your big day. Just let me know, okay?