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As I was preparing my blogs for July, I was considering different elopement topics to dive into when I realized that I still haven’t introduced you guys to adventure elopements! We’ve explored classic elopements, micro weddings, and traditional weddings, so I believe it’s time for one of my favorite wedding types to have the spotlight!

For some brides, their wedding consists of an exhilarating hike through a forest to a picturesque mountaintop where they will exchange vows with their love. There’s something so raw and beautiful about saying “I do” with nature as your witness (and your photographer, of course!). This combined with my adventurous heart is what makes adventure elopements a favorite of mine!

Adventure Elopements vs. Classic Elopements

Think of elopements as the umbrella that adventure elopements are cozily nesting underneath. We’re all familiar with elopements being the smallest of weddings, often times involving only the honored couple tying the knot and can be held anywhere from a courthouse to a grandparent’s living room. Adventure elopements are unique because they put extra emphasis on the “travel” aspect of elopements. While adventure elopements don’t mean you must travel outside of your home state, the majority of couples decide to do just that! Traveling to their favorite place or one where they have always wanted to go is one of the main reasons couples choose to have an adventure elopement in the first place.

is hiking a must?

If you do any hanging out on Pinterest, you’ve probably seen some of the many beautiful photos of couples hiking up a mountain to say their vows. As adventure elopements become more popular, one of the misconceptions may be that they always include hiking. Hiking is, so far, the most popular option, but adventure looks different for every couple and the amazing thing with adventure elopements is that you can create your very own! Couples who live in areas where there is great hiking, such as the PNW (Pacific Northwest), Blue Ridge Parkway, etc., you may choose to have an adventure close to home. For those who are looking to combine their elopement and honeymoon in one adventurous bundle, you may choose to hop on a flight to somewhere across the globe for a week. I always say that the world is your oyster when it comes to elopements – The only limitations are your imagination and your wanderlust! From rooftop picnics to jaw dropping hikes, you can create an adventure that is perfect for you and your soon-to-be spouse.

Think of elopements as the umbrella that adventure elopements fall under. Elopements are the smallest of weddings, often times involving only the couple saying “I do”. Classic elopements can be held at a courthouse, your favorite travel location, or a friend’s backyard. Adventure elopements are truly unique because they put extra emphasis on the “travel” aspect of elopements. While adventure elopements can don’t mean you must adventure out of your home state, that’s often the case. Many couples choose a location they can hike to and then change into their wedding attire once they arrive, say their vows, and then be off!

what about photos?

Elopement photography in general is its own thing. Like with all kinds of photography, different photographers focus on different things, so it would be extremely beneficial for you to spend time researching your photographer match! When it comes to adventure elopements, your location and travel time are two key elements when it comes to hiring a photographer. If you choose a location close to home, you can easily find an amazing photographer in or near your area to make sure your day is beautifully documented. If your location requires some jet-setting, you will want to be sure any local photographers you’re interested in are able to make the trip (Note: this will probably impact the total investment for your photography package)! You also have the option of hiring a photographer based out of the location you’re traveling to which will not only ease travel costs, but they will more than likely be familiar with the area and act as a guide – A huge plus when you’re going somewhere totally new!

For example, I am currently based out of the Carolinas and travel to Georgia, Tennessee, and parts of Virginia. Any elopements taking place outside of these areas will need to be considered on a case-by-case basis since there are so many factors I have to consider when traveling! If you’re in need of some southern elopement inspiration, check out my photography bucket list with all the locations I’m dying to visit in the Southeast! I’m also leaving you with a two more awesome resources – A super helpful elopement location guide by The Foxes and an adventure elopement FAQ page by Jen.

P.S. If you need any planning help, in or outside the realm of photography, I’m here for you! Feel free to send me an email today!