When it comes to planning your elopement, choosing the perfect location is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. After all, your elopement destination sets the tone for your entire wedding day and creates the backdrop for your love story. If you’re an adventurous couple seeking a unique elopement experience, you’ll want to find a location that matches your personalities and incorporates its essence into your elopement. Today I want to walk through the process of capturing the essence of your elopement destination so that your wedding day is a reflection of your love story.

1. Choose a location that resonates with you

When choosing an elopement destination, it’s important to consider what resonates with you as a couple. Do you love the mountains, the beach, or the desert? Are you drawn to a particular culture or vibe? Consider your interests, hobbies, and passions, and let them guide your decision. If you’re both adrenaline junkies, consider a location that offers adventure activities such as rock climbing, kayaking, or hiking. If you’re both foodies, choose a destination known for its culinary delights.

You can be creative here, since you’ve decided to elope you don’t need to choose a spot close to home. You won’t be dealing with logistics of a hundred people, rather just the two of you and your photographer, so it really opens up your options for destination.

2. Research the location

Once you’ve chosen your elopement destination, it’s time to research it thoroughly. Find out what makes the location unique and what it has to offer. Look for hidden gems that will add to your elopement experience. Research the best times of year to visit and what weather conditions to expect. You’ll also want to find out if there are any permits or restrictions for elopements in the area.

If you’re working with me (The Wild Elopement), this will be where we really start working together. I also research extensively any location that I haven’t been to before, from the weather to the sun, to any rules and restrictions in place.

3. Incorporate the essence of the location into your elopement

To truly capture the essence of your elopement destination, you’ll want to incorporate its unique features into your wedding day. For example, if you’re eloping in the mountains, consider incorporating elements of nature into your décor. If you’re eloping on the beach, choose a color palette that complements the ocean and sand. If you’re eloping in a city known for its architecture, choose a venue that showcases the city skyline.

The first (and simplest) place to start when you’re choosing how to incorporate the essence of the location into your elopement is with your wardrobe. With an adventure (think hiking, mountain, etc) elopement you may choose a dress that moves and flows with the wind (and isn’t heavy!), or something a little less formal than a tux. If you’re in a city, or a historic destination then you can go all-out and choose something super fashion forward!

4. Work with local vendors

I love meeting the local wedding professionals when I’m planning and photographing a destination wedding. Some vendors I always try to find locally are: caterers / bakers, hair and makeup artists, and florists.

The other thing to consider lodging – think about staying with a local host or at a unique rental property rather than a chain hotel. Not only does this mean a way more interesting backdrop for your getting ready, but it also expands your experience of the local culture and architecture.

5. Embrace the unexpected

Finally, when choosing a destination elopement it’s important to embrace the unexpected. Be open to the beauty of your surroundings and let the location guide you. Allow yourself to be present in the moment and fully immerse yourself in the experience. Some of the most memorable moments of your elopement will be the ones that you didn’t plan for. Roll with the elements, let it create an even more unforgettable day.

Stay wild. xx