Your elopement day should reflect everything that makes your love story unique. Adventure elopements allow you to break free from traditional norms and create a deeply personal experience that speaks to your shared journey. If you’re looking for ways to make your outdoor ceremony even more meaningful, this guide is packed with creative ideas to spark your imagination. From sunrise vow exchanges to symbolic unity ceremonies by waterfalls, here are some unforgettable rituals and activities to incorporate into your adventure elopement.

So, you’re planning an adventure elopement! Whether you’re heading to the cliffs of Kauai, the wild landscapes of Iceland, or the dreamy fjords of Norway, you’re about to embark on a day filled with exploration, stunning scenery, and unforgettable memories! Packing for an adventure elopement requires a blend of practicality and style to make sure you’re ready for the elements while looking amazing. Here’s a guide on exactly what to bring for the ultimate elopement experience in the great outdoors.

Let me guess, you want to elope but don’t know where? You’re probably thinking, “Duh Audrey, that’s why I’m here.” Well the good news is: you’re in the right place! As an elopement photographer I’m all about discovering and exploring epic destinations, so couples like you can get married in a way that is remarkably meaningful AND in a place that’s perfectly beautiful (and perfectly you). 

So, you’re dreaming of eloping in a stunning national park—imagine standing among towering redwoods, exchanging vows with panoramic mountain peaks behind you, or feeling the sea breeze on a rugged coastline. While eloping in a national park is an extraordinary way to celebrate your love, there are essential details to understand before you pack your wedding attire and set off on your adventure. One of the most crucial aspects is securing a national park permit. Let’s dive into why national park permits are essential, what they involve, and how incorporating Leave No Trace principles can make your elopement not only memorable but sustainable.

When many people hear the word “elope,” they may still picture a spontaneous, secretive escape to a city hall or a rushed wedding far from home. But modern elopements have evolved into something truly special and deeply meaningful. More than ever, couples are choosing to elope because they want to center their wedding day around their unique bond and what they genuinely value in their relationship. In this blog, we’ll dive into what it truly means to elope, why it’s becoming a cherished choice for so many, and how an elopement can be one of the most personal, intimate ways to begin married life together.

First, why choose New Mexico for your elopement?

Uhum where do I even start!? Southwest desert vibes, incredible history (hello, Santa Fe is the oldest city in the United states), and crazy-beautiful sunsets. Not enough? There are also rock formations, hot air balloons, and art districts. And lastly, New Mexico is full of wild landscapes similar to the surrounding states—except with half the crowds.

This place is so underrated. But hey, I’d rather keep this place as our little best-kept anyways! Let’s get into the details of planning your New Mexico elopement. 

If you’re thinking about eloping in a beautiful place somewhere in the world you’ve undoubtedly come across the term “adventure elopement”. Despite being certain you want to do something out of the box for your wedding day, once again you’re being boxed in by this new term. Now you’re contemplating if you’d even define yourself as “adventurous”, trying to navigate where you fall into the spectrum of outdoorsy-ness, and getting lost in a sea of options. Enter ME. Your little beacon of light. Guiding you through the bullshit and confusion towards a day that is simply defined by: “doing-whatever-you-want-to-do elopement” (…I’ll work on a less wordy definition later)! 

If you’re thinking about eloping in a beautiful place somewhere in the world you’ve undoubtedly come across the term “adventure elopement”. Despite being certain you want to do something out of the box for your wedding day, once again you’re being boxed in by this new term. Now you’re trying to navigate where you fall into the spectrum of outdoorsy-ness and getting lost in a sea of options. Enter ME. Your little beacon of light. Guiding you through the bullshit and confusion towards a day that is simply defined by: “doing-whatever-you-want-to-do elopement” (…I’ll work on a less wordy definition later)! 

Alaska’s vast landscape is brimming with electric blue glaciers, sprawling wildflowers, aurora borealis lighting up the skies, oceans full of whales, lush mountains teeming with wildlife, and truly undisturbed locations. Oh, and it’s all a domestic flight away. There is so much to do and see. And memories to create. If that’s not the perfect destination for a rustic outdoor elopement, I don’t know what is! 

Bringing your kids along for your elopement doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice intimacy or a dream-worthy experience—it just means you’ll need to do some extra planning! Having them there for your elopement is an incredibly beautiful thing. By making them an integral part of your elopement you’re fostering an even deeper connection as a family unit and modeling a healthy romantic relationship for them.