The Ultimate Elopement Checklist

Are you wondering how to plan an elopement? Girl, have I got the planning guide for you!

Hi, I’m Alex! I plan and photograph elopements in the Pacific Northwest.

I wanted to create an elopement planning checklist that will teach you how to plan your elopement from start to finish.

Remember, you don’t have to go through the planning process alone. If you feel stressed or overwhelmed - just reach out!

1. location

The first step in planning your elopement is to decide on an elopement location. Daydream together, try not to get bogged down with details, focus on finding a place that feels special to you. Once you have a few elopement locations in mind begin researching the logistics of that location.

• where to elope in Washington

• washington state marriage laws

• best time of year to elope in Washington

• where to stay in Washington

2. guest list

When you elope you are no longer bound by traditional norms. You can invite a small group or no one at all. It is completely your call.

Only you get to decide who comes to your wedding. Read through my blog posts about how to tell your family and create a meaningful guest list.

• how to make a guest list

• how to tell your family you are eloping

• elope with your family

• how to elope with kids

• sending elopement announcements

• how to plan an elopement reception

3. book vendors

Vendors and venues aren’t the first things that come to mind when planning an elopement. But they absolutely can help your day go a little smoother!

Take a look at my tips on hiring a photographer, how to choose an officiant, and what questions to ask your florist. (Oh, and that’s me in the picture - I would love to work with you!)

• how to find an elopement photographer

• a list of questions to ask your florist

• elopement booking checklist

4. plan your big day

The best part about eloping is you can do anything you want on your wedding day!

You are not stuck to a rigid timeline. Elopement leaves room for adventure and spontaneity. Think about what you want to do together. Do you want to go on a hike? Or would you rather sleep in and go out for brunch first?

Once you know what you want your wedding day to look like, create a general timeline with your photographer. But don’t be afraid to ditch the scheduled time slots and live a little. After all, it is your wedding day.

• how to plan your ceremony

• tips on creating an elopement timeline

• elopement dress, shoes, hair

The biggest advice I can give you about your wedding day is to take time to enjoy it.

Play. Have fun together. Take moments throughout the day together alone and let it sink in.

Have a wedding day that means something to you.