What a Full-Day Elopement Actually Looks Like (and Why It’s Worth It)
Real Full Day Elopement Timelines and Ideas for an Intentional, Unforgettable Wedding Experience
If you’re wondering what a full-day elopement even looks like? You’re in the right place. Gone are the days when elopements meant sneaking away in secret. Today’s elopements are bold, intentional, and deeply personal. They’re less about doing what’s traditional and more about creating a day that feels like you.
And yes, a full day elopement absolutely makes sense, not just for the photos, but for the experience. You’re not just exchanging vows; you’re living out a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Whether you’re dreaming of mountaintop vows, a coastal picnic, or a slow sunrise morning together in a cozy cabin, here’s a behind-the-scenes look at what a full-day elopement truly involves and why couples love every minute of it.
Why Choose a Full-Day Elopement?
You might be thinking: Do I really need 8+ hours of photography for an elopement?
Let’s reframe the question.
Would you only want 2 hours to celebrate your wedding day?
Just like traditional weddings, elopements deserve space. Space to slow down, breathe in the mountain air, sip your coffee slowly, and feel every single part of the day. Your full day elopement coverage isn’t about forcing a packed timeline — it’s about making room for real, unrushed moments.
Here’s what full-day coverage gives you:
- A start-to-finish story of your day
- Time for multiple epic locations or meaningful stops
- Moments of stillness, meals together, and emotional in-betweens
- No stress about rushing your vows, portraits, or post-ceremony joy
Think of it like a documentary-meets-romantic-film version of your relationship, with time to breathe, connect, and explore.
Sample Elopement Full Day Timelines (Real Examples!)
Here are a few real timelines from elopements I’ve photographed — each one totally unique to the couple and their dream day:
All-Day Elopement Along the Amalfi Coast
Late September in Positano, Amalfi and Ravello
10:30 AM – Photographer arrival + slow morning (getting ready, coffee, vow writing)
12:15 PM – Detail photos + final touches
1:00 PM – Both partners finish getting ready (separately)
1:30 PM – First look
1:45 PM – Explore Positano + private vow exchange en route to boat
2:30 PM – Travel to Ravello by boat + car
3:00 PM – Portraits + time together at Villa Rufolo
5:00 PM – Travel back to Positano with coastal boat exploring
5:45 PM – Champagne toast + celebratory swim
6:30 PM – Photography coverage ends
Evening – Dinner + drinks to close out the day
Coastal Elopement + Sunset Sail in the Florida Keys
July in Key West, Florida
See the full day featured here →
12:30 PM – Photographer arrives + detail photos
1:15 PM – Final getting ready + first look
2:20 PM – Explore Key West (gardens, snacks, vintage stops)
3:30 PM – Hemingway House portraits
4:00 PM – Ceremony at Smathers Beach + group photos
5:00 PM – Casual dinner stop near the harbor
6:30 PM – Sunset boat cruise
8:30 PM – Photographer coverage ends
No rushing. No pressure. Just a day built around you.
What You Can Include in Your All-Day Elopement
Your elopement can look like anything you want. Want to start your day paddleboarding on a quiet lake? Great. Prefer reading letters from family after your ceremony? Let’s build that in. Need a mid-day nap or coffee break? Absolutely.
Here are just a few things we can include in your full-day elopement coverage:
- Getting ready (solo or together)
- Travel to epic locations
- Vow exchange or ceremony
- Activities like hiking, biking, wine tasting, or sailing
- Meals, picnics, and food stops
- First dances, toasts, or private celebrations
- Portraits at multiple times of day
- Stargazing or a campfire wrap-up
This is your day. Let’s make it as rich and personal as your relationship.
Behind the Scenes: What I Actually Do Before and During Elopements
As your photographer and elopement guide, I’m with you through it all — not just with a camera in hand, but with snacks in my pack, calming energy, and location know-how to support your vision.
Here’s how I help during your full-day elopement:
- Scout and plan locations with lighting and logistics in mind
- Recommend unique lodging options that fit your vibe and vision
- Curate trusted vendor recommendations tailored to your location and style
- Build a custom timeline around your priorities and the experience you want
- Help dream up meaningful experiences (like a sunrise picnic, private chef dinner, or canoe ride)
- Pack a just-in-case kit (extra hair ties, tissues, safety pins, electrolytes)
- Keep things moving, but never rushed
- Capture both the big emotions and the small, quiet details
- Be your backup plan person if the weather shifts
- Create space for you to be fully in the moment—together
This isn’t about forcing a rigid schedule. It’s about creating a framework that supports the day you’re dreaming of. With enough flexibility to enjoy it deeply.
Planning Your 2026+ Full Day Elopement
Whether you’re eloping in the U.S., Europe, or beyond, it’s never too early to start dreaming up your 2026 celebration. Popular destinations and peak seasons book quickly, especially for full-day coverage.
If you’re not sure where to begin, I’ve created a free elopement planning guide that walks you through every step. Or, if you’re ready to start dreaming together — I’d be honored to document your love story.
Let’s Create a Full Day Elopement That Feels Like You
Your love deserves more than a rushed hour of photos. It deserves a day that feels sacred, adventurous, and authentically you. If you’re dreaming of a full day elopement, I’m here to help bring it to life.
✨ Now booking 2026 and 2027 destination elopements and intimate weddings worldwide.
📍 Specializing in New Mexico, Colorado, the Pacific Northwest, and international adventure elopements.
