When it comes to planning an elopement, one of the biggest factors is finding the perfect location. Couples that choose to elope often are doing so because they have a place that holds value to them, or they’re searching for a new place to explore together. As a full-time elopement and intimate wedding photographer (and current bride), I understand the task all too well. The pressure to find a place that screams “you” as a couple is a bit daunting to put it lightly. But luckily, you’ve come to the right place. I can’t wait to help you find your perfect elopement location for your dreamy day. Let’s dive in!

How to Find the Perfect Elopement Location

One of the first suggests I have may seem a little obvious… but it’s easy to overlook. Is there any place that’s on you and your partner’s bucket list? (Psst… now’s the time to check that one off!) Is there a favorite spot you go on family vacation? Maybe there’s a national park that’s a favorite, but you haven’t been in a while? It’s easiest to begin here when thinking of elopement locations because you may be overlooking a place that holds a lot of value to you and your relationship. 

The second suggestion I have when it comes to finding the perfect elopement location is to sit down and dream with your partner. Envision what the environment surrounding you as you say your vows looks like. Maybe you’ve always imagined mountains in the background, an alpine lake, or Fall foliage. Or maybe when you close your eyes, you picture a sunrise ceremony overlooking the desert. Think about how you would get to your destination. Do you want to hike? Maybe you could take a helicopter, a ferry, or a gondola. Think about if you’ve imagined yourself feeling hot or cold. 

My biggest tip for finding your perfect elopement location, however, is to dig deep into your relationship. What matters at the end of the day is that you get to elope in an incredible location with your person. Wherever you choose, it will hold meaning in your life for the rest of your life. No pressure 😉

Still Can’t Find the Perfect Location? 

Have no fear, my friend. When you book your elopement photographer or planner, they should be able to give you some guidance and direction to choose an epic location. When my fiancé and I started brainstorming locations, we knew we wanted to get married in a place that was new for both of us. We wanted to make our first (and best) memory in our dream destination as a married couple. Spoiler alert: we settled on Northern Washington! Even though we’ve never been, we found so many activities to do there that fit our interests. (We also knew that very few of our guests have traveled there – making it an adventure for us all!)

If you’re looking for elopement planning tips, check out the additional resources linked down below. And if you’re still searching for your right-hand adventure pal? LET’S CONNECT! As always, I’d love to be friends over on the ‘Gram (@sydneybreannphoto). Are you ready to wander?

Additional Resources:

Couple’s Guide to Preparing for Your Elopement
How to Elevate Your Elopement
The Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Glacier National Park
Best Places to Elope in Glacier National Park