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Can You Really Plan an Elopement at the Last Minute?
Step 1: Decide What You Want Your Elopement to Look Like
Step 2: Choose a Last-Minute Elopement Location
Step 3: Book Your Elopement Photographer
Step 4: Figure Out the Legal Requirements
Step 5: Find Your Wedding Attire
Step 6: Book Travel and Accommodations
Step 7: Choose a Few Meaningful Details and Activities
Step 8: Create Your Elopement Timeline
Your Last-Minute Elopement Planning Checklist
How to Make a Last-Minute Elopement Feel Intentional
Frequently Asked Questions About Planning a Last-Minute Elopement
Thinking about eloping in the next few weeks or months? Here's everything you need to know about planning a last-minute elopement, from choosing a location and finding vendors to obtaining your marriage license and creating a wedding day that feels like you.
Maybe you've been engaged for a while and the idea of planning a traditional wedding just isn't feeling right. Maybe you've always dreamed of running away to the mountains, exchanging vows along the coast, or getting married somewhere you've never been before. Or maybe you've recently decided that you simply don't want to wait any longer to marry your favorite person.
Whatever brought you here, I have some good news: You don't need a year (or even six months!) to plan an incredible elopement.
One of my favorite things about elopements is how much freedom they give you. You're not tied to the same expectations, traditions, or planning timelines that typically come with larger weddings. Instead, you get to create an experience that reflects your relationship, your priorities, and the things you genuinely love doing together.
And yes, that means you can absolutely plan an elopement in just a few weeks!
Of course, there are a few things you'll want to consider when planning on a shorter timeline. From navigating permits and marriage license requirements to finding available vendors, a little flexibility and the right guidance can make all the difference.
So, if you're wondering how to plan a last-minute elopement without feeling completely overwhelmed, you're in the right place.
Let's get into it!
Can You Really Plan an Elopement at the Last Minute?
Absolutely! Depending on your location, availability, and how flexible you're willing to be, it's possible to plan an elopement in as little as a few days or weeks.
Unlike traditional weddings, which often involve coordinating large venues, caterers, guest lists, and dozens of vendors, elopements typically have far fewer moving parts.
This means you can spend less time worrying about seating charts and dinner menus and more time planning the experiences that actually matter to you.
For some couples, that might look like exchanging vows at sunrise in the mountains before spending the afternoon exploring a national park. For others, it might mean renting a cozy cabin along the Oregon Coast, getting married on a secluded beach, and celebrating with a private dinner afterward.
There's no single way an elopement needs to look, and there's certainly no rule saying you need to spend an entire year planning one.
That being said, planning an elopement on a shorter timeline does require some flexibility.
Certain national parks require permits months in advance, popular vendors may already be booked, and some destinations are easier to reach than others.
But with a little creativity and an open mind, there are still so many possibilities!
Step 1: Decide What You Want Your Elopement to Look Like
Before you start researching destinations or booking flights, I always recommend taking some time to think about what you actually want your wedding day to feel like.
And I don't mean what you think an elopement is supposed to look like.
I mean what would make the day genuinely exciting and meaningful for the two of you.
One of the biggest benefits of eloping is that you get to completely reimagine what your wedding day can be. You can incorporate your favorite hobbies, explore somewhere new, include meaningful traditions, or skip traditions altogether.
Start by asking yourselves a few questions:
Do we want to elope somewhere familiar or travel to a new destination?
Are we imagining mountains, forests, beaches, deserts, or something completely different?
Do we want to invite a few of our closest people, or keep the day just between us?
Are there any activities or experiences we'd love to incorporate?
What parts of getting married are most important to us?
Are we comfortable being flexible with our wedding date or location?
Maybe you've always dreamed of hiking to an alpine lake for sunrise. Maybe you'd love to rent a vintage car and explore the California coastline. Or perhaps your perfect wedding day involves slow mornings, handwritten vows, and a picnic somewhere beautiful.
Whatever it looks like, start there.
My biggest piece of advice? Don't let the shorter planning timeline convince you that your elopement needs to be any less meaningful or adventurous.
You might need to make a few adjustments along the way, but that doesn't mean you have to give up the experience you've been dreaming about.
Step 2: Choose a Last-Minute Elopement Location
Choosing your location is one of the most important parts of planning a last-minute elopement.
Not only will your destination influence the scenery and overall experience, but it will also determine things like permit requirements, marriage laws, travel logistics, and seasonal accessibility.
When you're working with a shorter planning timeline, I recommend prioritizing destinations that offer flexibility.
For example, some national parks require special use permits for wedding ceremonies, and applications may need to be submitted weeks or months in advance.
Other public lands, private properties, and smaller wedding venues may have more flexible booking options.
It's important to remember that not every beautiful outdoor location is automatically available for a wedding ceremony. Permit requirements can vary based on the specific location, group size, activities, and land management agency.
Here are a few destinations I'd recommend considering for a last-minute elopement.
The Oregon Coast
If you're dreaming of rugged coastlines, dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and moody Pacific Northwest scenery, the Oregon Coast is an incredible option.
One of my favorite things about eloping along the Oregon Coast is the variety of scenery you can experience in a single day.
You can exchange vows overlooking the ocean, explore a beautiful old-growth forest, have a picnic along the beach, and finish your evening watching the sunset over the Pacific.
There are also plenty of beautiful coastal cabins, boutique hotels, and vacation rentals that can make the entire experience feel like a little getaway.
For intimate gatherings, you generally don’t need a permit in most locations, making it super friendly to last minute elopement plans!
If the Oregon Coast sounds like your dream elopement destination, be sure to check out my complete guide to eloping along the Oregon Coast, where I break down the best ceremony locations, permits, seasonal considerations, and everything else you need to know to start planning!
Moab, UTah (BLM Land)
If you're dreaming of dramatic desert landscapes, towering red rock formations, and a little adventure on your wedding day, Moab is an incredible place to elope!
With its expansive canyon views, winding desert roads, and beautiful sandstone formations, Moab offers so many opportunities to create a unique elopement experience. You could spend your morning exchanging vows overlooking the desert, explore scenic trails through the red rocks, take an adventurous off-roading excursion, or finish the evening watching the sunset over the canyonlands.
One of my favorite things about Moab is how much variety you can experience without having to travel very far. Whether you're envisioning an intimate ceremony with a handful of loved ones or an adventurous elopement with just the two of you, Moab has so much to offer!
While Canyonlands and Arches National Parks do require permits that you need to apply for in advance, there are extensive stunning landscapes on BLM land that you generally don’t need to obtain a permit for. Plus, these spots are usually much more secluded compared to the national parks, which is a double win! You can have your ceremony somewhere on BLM land with the seclusion and then travel into the National Park to explore and take some portraits afterwards if you’d still like to include them.
If Moab sounds like your dream elopement destination, be sure to check out my complete guide to eloping in Moab, where I break down the best ceremony locations, permits, seasonal considerations, and everything else you need to know to start planning!
Mt Baker National Forest
For couples who dream of dramatic mountain peaks, alpine lakes, and wildflower-covered meadows, the North Cascades are hard to beat.
From the incredible mountain views around Mount Baker to epic fire lookouts, there is so much to explore.
You could spend the morning hiking through alpine meadows, exchange private vows overlooking the mountains, and end the evening watching the last light disappear behind the peaks.
The North Cascades are particularly beautiful during the late summer and early fall, when higher-elevation roads and trails are generally more accessible.
If Mt Baker sounds like your dream elopement destination, be sure to check out my complete guide to eloping in Mt Baker, where I break down the best ceremony locations, permits, seasonal considerations, and everything else you need to know to start planning!
Olympic National Park, Washington
Can't decide between mountains, forests, and beaches? Olympic National Park offers all three!
You could start your wedding day surrounded by towering trees in the rainforest, exchange vows near a beautiful alpine lake, and finish the evening along the rugged Washington coastline.
Olympic National Park is one of my favorite destinations for couples who want to experience several completely different landscapes during their elopement.
While I usually advise couples to steer clear of National Parks if we are on a short time frame (sub 45 days) due to permit requirements, Olympic is actually one of the parks that is more flexible! For groups of 5 or less (this includes you two, if you have any guests, and any vendors present), you actually don’t need a permit to elope in Olympic National Park! This makes it a great option for those looking to keep it super intimate with just the two of them or with only a guest or two.
If Olympic National Park sounds like your dream elopement destination, be sure to check out my complete guide to eloping in Olympic National Park, where I break down the best ceremony locations, permits, seasonal considerations, and everything else you need to know to start planning!
Consider a Private Property or Vacation Rental
If you're planning an elopement with very little notice, a private property can also be a wonderful option.
Think cozy mountain cabins, oceanfront homes, historic estates, or secluded properties with beautiful outdoor spaces.
Not only can this give you more privacy, but it may also simplify some of the logistics involved in planning your ceremony.
Just remember that booking a vacation rental doesn't automatically mean you're allowed to host a wedding there. Always get explicit written permission from the property owner and confirm any local event restrictions.
A Few More Last-Minute Elopement Locations to Consider
These are just a few of the incredible places you could choose for your last-minute elopement! Other options include taking a private helicopter tour in Alaska, exploring national forest lands throughout the Rockies or Alaska, or exchanging vows in the desert landscapes surrounding Joshua Tree National Park. If you're dreaming of an international elopement, consider destinations like Iceland, Switzerland, Italy, Scotland, Greece, Spain, or Ireland!
One of the biggest benefits of choosing a location that doesn't require a wedding permit is the flexibility! You can plan your elopement without waiting for permit approvals, and if the weather changes or you find another location you love, it's much easier to adjust your plans. This can be especially helpful when planning on a shorter timeline. Just be sure to double-check local regulations, as permit requirements vary by location.
Step 3: Book Your Elopement Photographer
Once you have a general idea of where and when you'd like to elope, one of the first vendors I recommend reaching out to is your elopement photographer.
And yes, I know I might be a little biased here!
But hear me out.
When you work with an elopement photographer who also helps with planning, you're getting so much more than someone who shows up and takes beautiful photos.
You're also getting someone who can help you navigate the logistics of creating an entire wedding experience.
As an elopement photographer and videographer, I help my couples with things like:
Finding beautiful ceremony locations that align with their vision
Navigating location-specific permits and regulations
Creating a personalized elopement timeline
Finding activities and experiences to incorporate into their day
Offering vendor recommendations
Planning around lighting, weather, and seasonal conditions
Creating backup plans in case something unexpected happens
This is especially helpful when you're planning on a shorter timeline because you don't have to figure out every little detail on your own.
Instead of spending hours researching locations and trying to determine what's actually possible, you can work with someone who already has experience planning elopements in your destination.
And if you're worried that photographers are only available when you book a year in advance, don't be afraid to reach out!
While popular dates can book quickly, last-minute openings do happen, especially if you're flexible with your date or willing to consider a weekday.
Step 4: Figure Out the Legal Requirements
This might not be the most exciting part of planning your elopement, but it's definitely one of the most important!
Before you get too far into planning, you'll want to understand what is required to legally get married in your chosen destination.
Marriage laws vary by state and country, so the exact process will depend on where you're eloping.
For couples getting married in the United States, you'll generally need to look into a few things.
Marriage Licenses
Most states require you to obtain a marriage license before your ceremony. Depending on the location, you may be able to complete an application online, but some jurisdictions require an in-person appointment before issuing the license.
You'll also want to check:
Whether there's a waiting period
How long the marriage license remains valid. They’re generally valid for 30-60 days, depending on the state.
Whether both partners need to appear in person
What identification or documents are required
Whether an appointment is necessary
Where your completed license needs to be returned
Some states allow couples to get married immediately after receiving their license, while others require a waiting period. However, even if there is a waiting period, it is often only 1-3 days and it can often be waived for a small fee. You can also commonly get it online to avoid needing to travel around the waiting period.
Once you’ve decided on a location, visit the county clerk’s office website for the county and state where your ceremony will take place. That page will have all the necessary information on how to obtain a marriage license for your chosen area.
When you're planning an elopement with just a few weeks' notice, these details are especially important!
Do You Need an Officiant?
Whether you need an officiant depends on where you're getting married.
Some states, like Colorado, allow couples to self-solemnize their marriage, meaning they can legally marry without an officiant.
Other states require an authorized officiant to conduct the ceremony.
You might choose to hire a professional officiant, ask a friend or family member to become legally authorized, or work with a photographer who is also ordained.
If you are having guests, you can have someone special get ordained online! This is completely free and can be done in about 15 minutes through organizations like Universal Life Church. Many couples love having someone meaningful officiate and it’s especially a great option for last minute elopements!
Just so you know: I'm an ordained officiant and can help legally officiate ceremonies in locations where my ordination is recognized and applicable requirements are met. This can be especially convenient for couples planning an intimate elopement with just the two of them!
What About Witnesses?
Witness requirements also vary depending on the state.
Some locations don't require any witnesses, while others require one or two people to sign your marriage license.
If you're eloping without guests, don’t fret! Many of my couples elope just the two of them and we usually ask other park goers to sign the legal documents. It makes for a fun moment and people are always super excited to sign!
What If You're Eloping Internationally?
If you're planning a destination elopement outside the United States, the legal process can sometimes be more complicated.
Some countries require additional documentation, residency periods, translations, or appointments.
For couples planning an international elopement at the last minute, it may be easier to complete the legal paperwork at home and have a symbolic ceremony at your destination.
That way, you can still exchange vows and celebrate your marriage somewhere incredible without worrying about navigating another country's legal requirements on a tight timeline.
Step 5: Find Your Wedding Attire
One of the biggest concerns I hear from couples planning an elopement on short notice is whether they'll be able to find wedding attire in time.
And while ordering a custom wedding dress or tailored suit might not be realistic with only a few weeks to spare, there are still so many options!
The best part? Elopements give you the freedom to wear whatever makes you feel most like yourself.
You don't have to wear a traditional wedding dress or suit unless you genuinely want to.
Where to Find a Last-Minute Elopement Dress
If you're looking for a wedding dress, I recommend starting with stores that offer ready-to-wear or off-the-rack options.
Some places worth exploring include:
Anthropologie Weddings / BHLDN: Romantic, modern, and fashion-forward bridal styles
Reformation: Minimalist silhouettes, vintage-inspired details, and nontraditional bridal looks
David's Bridal: A variety of traditional and contemporary dresses, with some available off the rack
Azazie: A budget online option that has good quality and a vast array of styles. Shipping is usually pretty fast and there is an option for expedited.
Stillwhite: Pre-owned wedding dresses that may be available for immediate purchase
Local bridal consignment shops: A great option for finding unique, vintage, or discounted gowns
Vintage and thrift stores: Perfect if you love romantic details and want something a little different
Keep in mind that shipping times, stock, and alteration availability can vary, so always confirm that your outfit can realistically be ready before your wedding date.
What About Suits?
Suits and other tailored wedding outfits can often be found at local department stores, menswear shops, or online retailers.
If you're planning on a particularly short timeline, look for ready-to-wear options and prioritize fit over customization.
Some places worth exploring include:
Zara: Stylish, affordable suit options available immediately
H&M: Stylish, affordable suit options available immediately
J.Crew: Stylish, affordable suit options available immediately
Men’s Wearhouse: many off-the-rack options with quick alterations if neededd
The Black Tux or Generation Tux: Online suit rentals that offer fast shipping
What you already own!: If you already have a suit, sprucing it up with some new accessories or shoes can make it that special attire for your day.
Step 6: Book Travel and Accommodations
If you're eloping somewhere away from home, now's the time to start thinking about travel!
Depending on your destination, this might involve booking flights, reserving a rental car, finding accommodations, or researching transportation within national parks.
For a last-minute elopement, I recommend keeping your travel plans as straightforward as possible.
Rather than trying to squeeze several destinations into a short trip, consider choosing one main area and exploring it more intentionally.
Not only can this help simplify logistics, but it also gives you more time to actually enjoy your experience.
A Few Travel Tips for Last-Minute Elopements
Consider eloping on a weekday. Weekdays can sometimes offer better availability for accommodations and vendors, and popular outdoor locations may be less crowded.
Stay close to your ceremony location. Choosing accommodations near your planned activities can make your wedding day feel significantly more relaxed.
Give yourself a buffer day. If you're flying to your destination, I recommend arriving at least a day or two before your elopement whenever possible.
Research seasonal conditions. Mountain roads, hiking trails, and certain destinations may be inaccessible during parts of the year.
Look for flexible cancellation policies. When you're planning an outdoor wedding, it's always helpful to have some flexibility in case travel plans or weather conditions change.
And remember, your accommodations can be part of the experience, too! A beautiful cabin, charming boutique hotel, or cozy vacation rental can be the perfect setting for getting-ready photos, a slow morning together, or a romantic evening after your ceremony.
Step 7: Choose a Few Meaningful Details and Activities
One of the biggest misconceptions about elopements is that they're simply a quick ceremony followed by a few photos.
But your elopement can be so much more than that!
Just because you're planning your wedding in a matter of weeks doesn't mean you need to skip the little details that make the day special.
In fact, those are often the things you'll remember most.
Instead of trying to recreate every element of a traditional wedding, think about how you can incorporate things that reflect your relationship.
Here are a few ideas:
Exchange handwritten letters before your ceremony
Make breakfast together at your cabin
Have a picnic with your favorite foods
Bring a vintage cake and share a slice at sunset
Take a scenic drive in a classic car
Go hiking, kayaking, or exploring somewhere new
Bring along a meaningful family heirloom
Read letters from loved ones who couldn't attend
Enjoy a private chef dinner or visit a favorite restaurant
End the evening stargazing, sitting around a campfire where permitted, or soaking in a hot tub
And of course, you can incorporate traditional wedding elements if you'd like!
A bouquet, wedding cake, first dance, or champagne toast can all be part of your elopement.
The difference is that you get to choose which traditions feel meaningful instead of including them simply because they're expected.
Step 8: Create Your Elopement Timeline
Once you've finalized your location, vendors, and activities, it's time to put everything together into a timeline.
And this is where having an experienced elopement photographer can be incredibly helpful.
Your timeline should account for more than just your ceremony.
You'll also want to consider travel time, getting ready, meals, activities, photography, lighting conditions, and time to simply enjoy being together.
Most importantly, you don't want to overpack your day.
Planning your elopement quickly doesn't mean you need to rush through your actual wedding day.
Here are two examples of what a last-minute elopement timeline could look like.
Sample Timeline 2: An Adventurous Mountain Elopement
Perfect for couples who want to spend their wedding day exploring the mountains.
5:00 AM Getting ready at your mountain cabin
6:00 AM Travel to your sunrise location
6:30 AM Sunrise first look and portraits
7:00 AM Private ceremony overlooking the mountains
7:30 AM Explore the area and enjoy the morning light
9:00 AM Breakfast picnic
10:00 AM Scenic drive and additional stops
11:30 AM Return to the cabin and relax
4:30 PM Head out for an evening adventure
5:30 PM Explore an alpine trail
7:00 PM Sunset portraits and private first dance
Timing will vary based on the season, trail access, and actual sunrise and sunset.
Sample Timeline 1: A Relaxed Oregon Coast Elopement
Perfect for couples who want a romantic, laid-back wedding day with a little adventure.
12:00 PM Getting ready together at your coastal cabin
1:00 PM First look and portraits around the property
2:00 PM Travel to a nearby forest
2:30 PM Private vows surrounded by towering trees
3:30 PM Explore the forest and take portraits
4:30 PM Head to the coastline
5:00 PM Picnic and wedding cake overlooking the ocean
6:00 PM Explore the beach and coastal cliffs
7:00 PM Sunset portraits and a first dance
8:00 PM Wrap up and head to dinner
This is an illustrative summer timeline. Exact sunset times and travel distances will depend on your date and location.
As you can see, even a last-minute elopement can be an entire experience rather than just a short ceremony.
Your Last-Minute Elopement Planning Checklist
If you're planning to elope within the next six weeks, here's a general checklist to help you prioritize everything.
4–6 Weeks Before Your Elopement
Decide on your ideal location and general wedding date
Determine your approximate budget
Reach out to your elopement photographer
Research ceremony permits and location restrictions
Review marriage license requirements
Start shopping for wedding attire
Book flights and accommodations if needed
2–3 Weeks Before Your Elopement
Finalize your ceremony location
Submit or secure any necessary permits
Arrange your marriage license appointment
Book an officiant if required
Confirm your remaining vendors
Plan any activities or experiences
Start writing your vows
Create your wedding day timeline
1 Week Before Your Elopement
Confirm travel arrangements and vendor details
Pick up your marriage license if appropriate for your jurisdiction
Check weather forecasts and trail conditions
Finalize backup plans
Pack your wedding attire and accessories
Prepare your vows and meaningful details
Make sure you have everything you need for your ceremony
The Day Before Your Elopement
Check the latest weather and access conditions
Confirm your meeting time and location
Charge your phones and other important devices
Lay out your wedding attire
Get plenty of rest
Spend some intentional time together before the big day
And that's it!
You don't need to spend months obsessing over every little detail to create an incredible wedding experience.
How to Make a Last-Minute Elopement Feel Intentional
I think one of the most important things to remember when planning a last-minute elopement is that a shorter planning timeline doesn't mean your wedding day has to feel rushed.
In fact, I think there's something really beautiful about deciding that you don't want to wait any longer to marry your person.
You're choosing to prioritize your relationship and the experience of getting married over the expectations that often come with planning a wedding.
But I also don't want you to feel like you need to sacrifice the things that matter to you just because you're planning quickly.
Take the time to write meaningful vows.
Choose a location that makes you genuinely excited.
Wear something you love.
Plan activities that reflect your relationship.
Give yourselves enough time to slow down and actually experience everything.
Your elopement deserves to feel just as special whether you've spent two years planning it or two weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions About Planning a Last-Minute Elopement
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Depending on your destination and legal requirements, you may be able to plan an elopement in just a few days or weeks.
The biggest factors will typically be marriage license requirements, ceremony permits, travel arrangements, and vendor availability.
If you're flexible with your location and date, you'll generally have more options.
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Not necessarily!
While elopements can be more affordable than traditional weddings, planning at the last minute doesn't automatically mean you'll save money.
Flights, accommodations, and certain services may actually be more expensive when booked on short notice.
However, because elopements typically involve fewer guests and vendors, you have more flexibility to prioritize where your budget goes.
You might decide to invest more in photography and videography, unique experiences, beautiful accommodations, or an unforgettable honeymoon.
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Sometimes!
Many national parks require special use permits for wedding ceremonies, and application timelines vary.
Some parks may be able to accommodate short-notice requests, while others require applications weeks or months in advance.
If you're hoping to elope in a national park, I recommend contacting the park directly as soon as possible.
If permits aren't available, you can also explore nearby national forests, other public lands, or private properties, provided ceremonies are authorized at the specific location.
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Yes, it's possible!
For a two-week planning timeline, I recommend focusing on destinations with manageable legal and permit requirements, being flexible with your wedding date, and working with an experienced elopement photographer who can help you organize the logistics.
You may need to simplify a few elements, but you can absolutely create a beautiful, meaningful wedding day.
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It depends on where you're getting married.
Some states allow couples to self-solemnize, while others require an authorized officiant to perform the ceremony.
Be sure to research the marriage laws for your specific destination before finalizing your plans.
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Weather is always something to consider when planning an outdoor elopement, regardless of how far in advance you book.
I recommend having a backup location or alternative plan, especially if you're getting married somewhere with unpredictable mountain or coastal weather.
Sometimes that means adjusting your timeline, choosing a more sheltered location, or embracing a little rain.
The most important thing is to prioritize safety while staying flexible.
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Absolutely!
Just because you've planned your wedding in a few weeks doesn't mean you need to limit your experience to a quick ceremony.
You can still spend an entire day hiking, exploring, enjoying a picnic, exchanging vows, and celebrating together.
Your planning timeline and your wedding day timeline are two completely different things.
Ready to Plan Your Last-Minute Elopement?
If you've made it this far, I hope you're feeling a little more excited and a lot less overwhelmed about the idea of planning an elopement on a shorter timeline.
Because the truth is, you don't need a year of planning, an elaborate venue, or an endless list of wedding details to have an incredible wedding day.
You just need a vision for what feels right for the two of you, a little flexibility, and the right people helping bring everything together.
As an elopement photographer and videographer, I'm here to help you create an experience that's completely your own.
From finding your dream location and navigating permits to creating a personalized timeline and documenting every little moment along the way, I'll be there to help you bring your vision to life.
Whether you're planning six months in advance or hoping to get married in just a few weeks, I'd love to help you make it happen.
