Think about a place that gets you excited!
Consider the details
Scenery
Start by thinking about the kind of scenery you truly love — the options are endless. Maybe you’re dreaming of the never-ending sand dunes along Lake Michigan, standing beneath towering redwood trees, taking in vast open mountain views, exploring red rock arches, staying in a cozy A-frame in the woods, or choosing somewhere with palm trees and sunshine. Your backdrop sets the tone for your entire day, so pick what feels most “you.”
Seasons
If you already have a time of year in mind, it’s helpful to choose a location that really shines during that season. For example, if you hate the heat, eloping in Mexico in July might not be the best fit haha. It’s always worth considering temperatures, weather patterns, and when the “best” season is for your chosen destination. Winter elopements can be magical too — sometimes they come with a few extra restrictions, but if you’re hoping for a snowy adventure, I’m always down. I may love sunshine… but I’m a Michigan girl through and through!
Activities
If you’re choosing to legally get married on your elopement day, you’ll likely have a ceremony built in — but the rest of the day is completely yours. Some locations naturally offer more opportunities for adventure or laid-back exploring, depending on what you’re into. Hiking, swimming, boating, four-wheeling, grabbing coffee, having a picnic, horseback riding, canoeing… the possibilities are endless. And the best part? These moments almost always photograph so beautifully.
Traveling
How far are you willing to go, and what does your budget look like? Think about what feels realistic and exciting for you two — whether that’s hopping on a plane somewhere far away or keeping it simple with a road trip adventure. There’s no right answer — just what fits your comfort level and your vision.
Here are some of my absolute
favorite spots I've photographed...
Grand Teton National Park
Bar Harbor, Maine
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Silver Lake Sand Dunes, Michigan
Anchorage and Denali NP, Alaska
Glacier National Park
The Oregon Coast
Kauai, Hawaii
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Zion National Park
Sedona, Arizona
Positano, Italy
Other location ideas
Yosemite National Park
Aspen, Colorado
Rocky Mountain National Park
North Cascades National Park
Banff National Park
Pictured Rocks, Michigan
Tahquamenon Falls, Michigan
Want to see a few elopements I’ve photographed at these locations? →
example 8 hour elopement timeline
ceremony
exploring / activity / picnic / etc
hike or drive to sunset location
golden hour portraits
12:00pm |
1:30pm |
2:00pm |
3:15pm |
4:00pm |
4:30pm |
6:00pm |
6:30pm |
get coffee and lunch together
get ready + detail photos
first look
drive to ceremony location
Next steps…
inquire
reach out to me through my contact form! I'll be in touch within 1-2 business days.
let's chat
get on a call to discuss what your dream elopement looks like. At this time, a date and location needs to be solidified somewhat.
you're booked!
once you complete your contract and pay your retainer invoice, it's official!