DESTINATION ELOPEMENT PLANNER // DESTINATION ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER // FILM PHOTOGRAPHER // SUPER 8 VIDEOGRAPHER
You know you want to elope, but the biggest question on your mind is “where”? Well luckily, I’m one step ahead of you! It’s that time of year again, where I spend countless hours scouring the world (world wide web) for the dreamiest elopement destinations. Through my research and experiences I realized there is truly no bad time of year to elope, so I set out to find a unique location for every month. Whether you want to escape or embrace the snow, swim or eat all day, escape or be in the thick of things — I’ve found a little something for everyone. Fingers crossed you’ll find a place that matches your elopement vibe or inspires new possibilities for your wedding day!
Oh and… I would say my 2022 & 2023 elopement destinations are outdated, but they will neverrr go out of style! After you’re done with the location ideas I found for your 2024 elopement, take a trip down memory lane to explore past top picks!
LET’S DIG INTO THE…
While it’s chilly over here in the United States over in New Zealand summer is in full swing! This country has every landscape you could imagine, but if you want a little bit of everything I suggest Auckland. There you can experience the mountains, pristine beaches, and coastal towns.
Weather: 68-86°F
Psst! This is on my bucket list, ask me about what I’ve found researching in preparation for couples wanting to elope here. →
I dare you to simply google Khao Sok National Park, Thailand and not instantly fall in love. Floating bungalows, jungle safaris, elephant sanctuaries, and boat tours through emerald green waters — what more could you possibly want for your elopement? Although this is a busier time of year you can’t beat the weather!
Weather: 80°s-90°s F
If you’ve been on Instagram in the past decade you’re surely familiar with the rolling hills of brilliant orange poppies in Antelope Valley. You’re almost guaranteed California wildflowers in March. After your gorgeous ceremony you can retreat to a luxury Airbnb nearby to unwind.
Weather: 50°s F
To protect the flowers, wildlife and surrounding environment it’s important to stay on the trails. Here’s some advice on planning an Environmentally Conscious Elopement. → HERE
From the Vermilion Cliffs as National Monument to the incredible red and white sandstone at The Wave, Marble Canyon is the perfect place for a desert elopement. Enjoy the smells of blooming juniper, hike amongst the cacti, and soak in the starry nights. Less than an hour drive away you’ll find Lake Powell in Page, Arizona.
Weather: 40°–63°F
May is the perfect time of year to beat the crowds and visit the fjords of Norway, but more particularly, Geiranger Fjord. You’ll find rushing waterfalls (like Seven Sisters), colorful wildflowers, and breathtaking views— it’s no wonder this place is considered to be one of the most beautiful fjords in the world.
Weather: 43°-59°F
Explore the rockets of Banff National Park for your elopement, whether you want to hike through the wilderness or take in the views on a helicopter ride, there’s something for you. Before the busy season you’ll get cooler temps, but in exchange you’ll be able to get pristine glacial lakes (like infamous Lake Louise) and snow capped mountains to yourselves.
Weather: 71°-45 F
Although July is peak season at The Azores it is nothing compared to how busy mainland cities of Europe are this time of year. This archipelago lies off the coast of Portugal and has nine beautiful islands that offer cozy towns, incredible waters, and remote landscapes. This is the perfect destination if you’re looking for a secluded paradise.
Weather: 70°s-60°s F
Although you may risk some rain this time of year in Seward you’ll be able to enjoy all of the summer activities in mild weather, with no bugs and no crowds. The views here are indescribable (and that’s coming from someone that’s documented an elopement here!). You could say your vows amongst the colorful foliage, before catching a cruise to see the orcas. Then settle in for the night to watch the Northern Lights dance across the sky.
Weather: 50°-62°F
In Mallorca you’ll find Spanish tiled roofs, glittering waters, rolling countrysides, breathtaking mountains, and so much culture. This time of year is the end of tourist season and the beginning of the harvest season, which means markets will be thriving and restaurants will be serving the most delicious food you’ve ever experienced.
Weather: 65°–80°F
Take in the mountains bursting with fall foliage as you make your way to Crested Butte. There you will find a lively and cute two nestled below the mountains. Watch the sunrise as it turns the snow capped mountains pink and makes the aspens glow. Cozy in with a cup of hot coco next to the fire at the end of the night before it gets too cold!
Weather: 30°s-60°s F
Petra is one of the Seven Wonders of the World aaand that pretty much speaks for itself. This desert is unlike anything you’ve ever seen, with ancient ruins of oldest cities in the world and famous archaeological sites of cities half carved into rock. And there’s more! For your elopement you could ride camels, hop in a hot air balloon, or go glamping in the desert!
Weather: 40°s-60°s F
Instead of escaping the snow, why not lean into it? Hallstatt is an Austrian town that looks like a winter fairy-tale during the holidays. If you love snow sports there is plenty of that and if you’ve never skied a day in your life there are dog mushing tours that’ll be right up your alley! Spend your downtime shopping at their famous holiday market or relaxing in a steam room.
Weather: 20°s-30°s F
The perfect place for couples who want an experience-filled adventure, but also for lovers simply craving a quiet, luxurious escape. Greece’s ethereal energy makes it a truly romantic elopement destination…→ HERE |
Scotland is a remarkable country where you can explore historic cities and see gorgeous landscapes all in one day. It’s no surprise that couples are attracted to the cobblestone streets and rolling green mountains…→ HERE |
If you want to wander around quaint little villages, go to distilleries to sample Irish Whiskey, hike through lush green fields to the oceans edge, and to truly slow down and reconnect during your elopement then Ireland couldn’t be more perfect… → HERE |
Even if your only reference for what Italy is like is the “Lizzie McGuire Movie”, you know this country is steeped in romance & culture. Pictures simply don’t do Italy justice. Regardless of what region you visit there is no shortage of beautiful…→ HERE |
Before you let the possibilities of “where” overwhelm you, take a deep breath and meet me in my inbox. We can discuss your vision, your likes/dislikes, and what would align with your budget. I’m here to help inspire and educate you on what’s possible for your wedding day. And… to document every last moment of the elopement you’re putting so much effort into making yours.
Please note that the images in this post are mine (with the exception of Seward, AK); however, I have the permission to use them for the informational purposes of this blog.
© Audrey Darke Photography | All Rights Reserved
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