First and foremost, I want to express just how truly honored I am that you've chosen me to document your wedding day. Capturing these moments for you is not something I take lightly. I pour my heart and soul into my work because I want to create images that will become timeless treasures for you both. I am forever grateful for every couple that trusts me with this responsibility.

With this guide, my goal is simple: to ensure you get everything you envision out of your wedding photos. I've filled it with tips, insights, and recommendations to help with planning, so you know exactly what to expect from me on the day and how to enhance the overall look of your final gallery.

There's no "right" or "wrong" way to plan your wedding day—what matters most is that you make choices that feel true to you. It's easy to get caught up in social media trends, family expectations, and the pressure to impress others. But remember, this day is about you and your partner, and it's about what makes you both happy.

This guide is simply here to help you plan in a way that feels intentional and authentic to you. Photography is a blend of art and storytelling, and while I'll always be there to capture every moment as it happens, a little thought about the details can make a big difference in the final photos. Together, we’ll create a collection of images that truly reflect the magic and emotion of your day.

I want you to get the most out of your wedding photos.

xx, Maggie

ELOPEMENT PLANNING TIMELINE

Decide Who is Coming

Decide if you want only your closest friends/family with you, or if you’d like to truly elope just yourselves.

Choose a Location

We’ll lock down a location and a specific ceremony spot. This will also allow us to figure out any logistics for your day (do you need a witness, permits, etc.)

Consider the Legalities

This step often gets overlooked but is essential! Make sure to research any marriage license requirements for the location you’ve chosen or if any permits are required.

Plan Your Ideal Day

Choose how you want to spend your day! Is there anything else you want to do besides your ceremony and portraits? Matching tattoos? Hike? Soak in hot springs? Then we’ll create a timeline for the day.

Book Travel, Accommodation and/or Activities

Get all of your flights booked if traveling, where you’re staying, where you’re get ready, and any activities or tours that need to be booked in advance.

Hire Your Vendors (If Desired)

You might want to hire a florist for a bouquet, a hair and makeup artist, a celebrant, or even a videographer to document the day.

Get Your Attire and Accessories

Pick what you want to wear! Choose outfits and footwear that makes sense for the type of elopement you’re wanting to have.

Create Your Ceremony & Vows

Whether you’re writing your vows or choosing to say something more spontaneous, think about what you want to share with each other during your ceremony.

Pack for the Day

Make sure to pack everything you’ll need for your elopement day: outfits, rings, licenses, and any special items you want for your ceremony or photos.

Elope!

You finally get to live out your dream day! You guys do your thing and I’ll be there to document all of it. I think it’s so important to be able to have photos right away, so you’ll get a handful of sneak peeks within 1 week!

Gallery Delivery

Editing is half the magic and I take my time with each and every photo. I’ll deliver your full gallery within 12 weeks - but typically much sooner :)

MAKE. YOUR. DAY. MEANINGFUL.

If there is one thing you take away from this whole guide - it is to be intentional with every single aspect of your elopement. Don’t make any decision because you feel pressure from the people around you, influence from social media, or because of tradition. One of the best things about elopements is being able to truly make your day be all about you two. So close your eyes and envision your perfect day together. Think about the things that mean most to you as a couple, activities you both love, and the times you’ve felt the most connected. There is no right or wrong way to plan this day, and sometimes the smallest things can have the biggest meaning. My goal with this guide is to give you ideas, make planning easier, and remind you to make your day as unique as your love story!

HOW I’LL CAPTURE YOUR DAY

On elopement days, I blend into the background and capture the day as it naturally unfolds rather than constantly posing or interjecting. My approach is documentary-style, meaning that I prioritize genuine moments, the laughter, quiet exchanges, and candid emotions that define the day. I strive to reflect the real, unfiltered story of your elopement, allowing you to be fully present and at ease with each other.

When guidance or direction is needed, I step in gently, providing prompts to help you feel comfortable or to draw out a specific mood. My goal is to document your love story in an authentic way that feels true to who you are. I want to preserve the real moments as they happen so that you can relive the day as it was.

DECIDING TO INCLUDE GUESTS OR NOT

It can be a really hard decision when considering if you want any guests at your elopement. There really is no right or wrong answer to this, make this decision based on what feels right for you two. If you haven’t made this decision yet, here are some questions you can ask yourself and ways you can incorporate guests into your day:

Questions to Ask Yourselves:

  • Does your ceremony location have limits on guests? (very common in national and some state parks)

  • Does the location you have in mind make sense to have guests?

  • Would the logistics of having guests change our vision for the day?

  • Why are you eloping?

  • Are there specific people whose presence would make the day more meaningful?

  • Would you feel more comfortable celebrating with others afterwards?

  • How do you want to remember this day?

Ways to Include Guests in Parts of Your Day:

  • Have them help you get ready

  • Have them only be part of the ceremony

  • Celebrate with them after the ceremony

  • Ask friends and family to record short video messages to watch on the day

  • Have a friend or family member make your bouquet

  • Borrow jewelry or attire from a loved one

  • Livestream your ceremony

  • FaceTime with loved ones

  • Record a message for them on your elopement day

SELECTING A LOCATION

There is a lot more freedom choosing a location for an elopement as you are no longer restricted to just typical wedding venues. Think about a location that you love, have always wanted to visit, or where you feel the most connected.

  • National or State Parks

  • Public parks

  • Campgrounds

  • Private land

  • Botanical gardens

  • Farms

  • Family property

  • Beaches, forests, mountain tops, fields

  • Private boat

  • Historical landmarks

  • Private cabin or lodge

  • Private vineyard or winery

PLANNING YOUR IDEAL DAY

You may want a day that’s as simple as your ceremony and bridal portraits, or you might wish to incorporate additional activities to create a more adventurous experience while capturing every moment. Depending on your elopement location, the possibilities are truly endless! From hiking to breathtaking viewpoints to enjoying a cozy picnic or even embarking on thrilling adventures like kayaking or zip-lining, there are countless ways to make your day uniquely yours. I’ve listed several ideas to spark inspiration and help you envision your ideal elopement, ensuring that your celebration reflects your personalities and shared passions. You can seriously do anything you want on your elopement day, no matter how casual or adventurous.

You can always choose to bump your coverage up to 8 hours if you decide you want more aspects of your day captured!

  • Cook a meal together

  • Go for a morning walk

  • Play with your dog

  • Have a picnic

  • Rock climb

  • Go for a swim together

  • Paddle board or kayak

  • Soak in a hot tub

  • Grab drinks

  • Sit around a campfire

  • Book an adventurous tour

  • Have a celebratory toast

  • Stargaze

  • Explore the local culture

  • Look at old photos/memories together

  • Take a hike

  • Matching tattoos

VENDORS YOU MAY CONSIDER BOOKING

These are some vendors you may be interested in booking, but it’s perfectly fine to have me as your only vendor! Consider what truly matters to you as a couple and how it aligns with your budget. If a bouquet isn’t a priority for you, feel free to skip it! Perhaps you’d rather indulge in a favorite comfort food like a Taco Bell picnic instead of hiring a caterer. The key is to focus on the elements that enhance your experience and reflect your personalities, ensuring your elopement is as meaningful and enjoyable as possible, regardless of how many vendors you choose to include.

  • Elopement Planner

  • Hair and/or Makeup Artist

  • Florist

  • Seamstress

  • Adventure Guide

  • Travel Agent

  • Transportation

  • Officiant

  • Private Chef or Caterer

  • Baker

  • Live Musician

  • Calligrapher

  • Videographer

  • Custom Clothing Designer

  • Rentals (Tents, Furniture, Decor, etc.)

OFFICIANTS + WITNESSES

When planning your elopement, it’s essential to consider the legal requirements for your chosen ceremony location, including the laws regarding officiants and witnesses. Different states and countries have varying regulations regarding who can officiate a wedding, so check if your officiant is legally recognized in that area. Additionally, many places require at least one or two witnesses to be present during the ceremony for the marriage to be legally binding. Be sure to verify these requirements well in advance, as some locations may also have specific forms or permits that need to be filed. Don’t worry, I can help with this part!

PERMITS + RESERVATIONS

Getting married in certain areas may require a permit application to be submitted up to 30 days before your wedding day. This is very common for national or state parks, historic sites, and protected lands. I will always double check this for you and make sure we have any permits we may need. Usually these are not very expensive!

*As mentioned above, keep in mind many of these places also set hard limits on how many guests are allowed to attend. Their limits also include you two and your photographer,

It’s crucial to remember to secure your marriage license well in advance to avoid any last-minute stress. Each state and/or county has different requirements and processing times, so check the specifics for your location to ensure everything is in order. If you’re eloping internationally, consider that some destinations may not recognize marriages performed there unless you complete a legal ceremony beforehand. In such cases, you may want to get legally married in your home country before you leave, ensuring that your union is recognized no matter where your adventure takes you.

MARRIAGE LICENSE

CHOOSING WEDDING ATTIRE

Choosing attire that fits your elopement location can make a huge difference in how comfortable and free you feel throughout the day. For a mountainous hike, a ball gown could make moving around difficult, and in the desert heat, a three-piece suit might quickly feel out of place. Instead, opt for outfits that allow you to connect with your surroundings naturally—think lightweight dresses for adventurous elopements or layered looks for colder, alpine settings. Don’t be afraid to break tradition with your footwear, either! Hiking boots, Chacos, or even going barefoot can make navigating rugged paths or sandy stretches more enjoyable and add a unique touch to your photos.

Affordable Wedding Gown Recommendations:

Lulus Avery Austin Azazie

THOUGHTFUL DETAILS + ACCESSORIES

The first thing I’ll do when I arrive is quickly capture some detail shots of specific items. Consider choosing items that hold special meaning to you and your partner. Think about incorporating elements such as your unique accessories, heirloom jewelry, or sentimental tokens that reflect your journey together. Curating these details not only adds depth to your story but also enhances the overall aesthetic of your images. Remember, it’s the little things that can make a big impact, so take the time to choose items that resonate with your personal style and love story.

  • your wedding gown

  • jewelry

  • veil

  • shoes

  • ring boxes

  • hair accessories

  • watches

  • map/guide of area you’re eloping in

  • invitation

  • perfume/cologne

  • loose florals

  • pretty dress hanger

The “getting ready” time is about capturing the quiet anticipation, so choose a space with plenty of natural light and minimal clutter for a clean, beautiful backdrop. Ideally, pick a spot close to where your partner is preparing, or even the same venue, to capture those shared moments and make transitions smoother for everyone involved. Thoughtfully choosing this space makes a big difference in the outcome of your photos, enhancing every image with a clean, cohesive backdrop that complements your story.

  • Steam everyone’s attire before the wedding day

  • Don’t forget cute outfits for anyone that will get ready with you

  • Go braless while you get ready so there are no markings on your skin

GETTING READY

CEREMONY

When planning your elopement ceremony, remember that it’s all about what feels right for you as a couple. You can absolutely incorporate elements of a traditional ceremony, such as having music, opening words, readings, vows, rituals, ring exchange, and closing words. Alternatively, you might choose a location that holds special meaning for you and embrace a more relaxed approach, foregoing traditional elements altogether. Whether you prefer to blend personal touches with classic traditions or carve out a completely unique experience, the beauty of an elopement is the freedom to tailor your ceremony to reflect your love story and shared values. Ultimately, focus on what resonates with you both, ensuring that your special day is a true celebration of your unique bond.

Unless you've selected a venue with a designated ceremony site, I’ll always scout the location beforehand to help choose the perfect spot. This is especially important if you’re planning a ceremony in a natural setting without pre-established sites, as it ensures we find the ideal spot for your vows.

GOLDEN HOUR PORTRAITS

As part of your elopement day, we’ll plan to capture portraits either at sunset or sunrise to take advantage of that beautiful, soft, and warm light that can’t be recreated any other time. In the early morning or late evening, the sun is low on the horizon, casting gentle, golden tones that add a romantic glow to each shot. Whether we’re hiking to a viewpoint or finding a secluded spot, this lighting will bring out the colors of the landscape and create a dreamy, ethereal backdrop for you both.

And if the sky is covered in clouds, don’t worry!! Clouds act as a natural diffuser, softening the light and creating a beautiful, moody atmosphere. Part of the fun of an elopement day outdoors is embracing whatever weather comes our way. If the weather is truly going to be terrible, we’ll work together to rearrange your day or even switch to a different day if my schedule allows.

CREATING A TIMELINE

Creating a timeline for your elopement day helps everything flow smoothly, ensuring there's enough time for each important moment without feeling rushed. The best way to create a timeline is from working backwards. I suggest finding out when sunset is on your wedding day, and working backwards from your sunset portraits. You can also choose your ceremony time first, and work around that.

Below is a list of how to create your timeline and a couple sample timelines for a half and full day elopements. Sunrise/sunset varies greatly depending on time of year, and is usually the main thing to build your timeline around. The lighting around these times is the absolute best for your portraits. If you’re eloping in a very popular location, sunrise might be a good option to have the place all to yourselves.

  1. Decide EVERYTHING that you want to do on the day

  2. Create a timeline template (List of times every 30 min)

  3. Fill in the things that cannot be changed (sunrise, sunset, check-in time, vendor arrivals + departures, etc.)

  4. Fill in everything else!

  5. We will tweak as needed throughout the planning process

After your elopement ceremony, the celebration can take many forms, depending on what feels right for you as a couple. You might choose to enjoy a cozy dinner with your closest friends and family, sharing laughter and joy as you all celebrate this significant milestone together. If you prefer a more intimate experience, consider a quiet dinner for two, allowing you to savor the moment and reflect on the day in a peaceful setting. Alternatively, a simple toast with champagne and a delicious dessert could be the perfect way to mark the occasion

CELEBRATE!

HANDLING BAD WEATHER ON YOUR ELOPEMENT DAY

One of the most magical aspects of an outdoor elopement is that it’s an adventure, and part of the fun is embracing whatever weather comes our way! Whether it’s sunshine, rain, or a bit of wind, the elements often add a unique, personal touch to your photos and experience. I encourage you to see the beauty in whatever weather unfolds—it often leads to unexpected, memorable moments. Some of the most stunning and intimate photos come from embracing the rain with an umbrella, or catching that perfect sunset after a storm clears.

With that being said, if the forecast is looking really unfavorable a couple of days out, we’ll schedule a call to discuss your options. Together, we can come up with a plan to either shift the timeline, choose a backup location, or make other adjustments to ensure we still capture beautiful photos while keeping you both comfortable.

- WHEN TO EXPECT YOUR PHOTOS -

I will send you some sneak peeks within one week of your elopement! This allows you to share with friends/family and start reliving your big day shortly after. You’ll receive your full gallery within 12 weeks, but usually it’s much earlier. Editing is half the magic, and your images deserve my time and full attention to properly finish creating them.