Destination Weddings / Elopement Guide

Destination weddings and elopements have become an increasingly popular choice for couples who want a more intimate, unique experience to celebrate their love. Whether you’re dreaming of exchanging vows on a sandy beach, in a quaint mountain chapel, or in an exotic city overseas, a destination wedding or elopement offers something special and memorable.

But how do you navigate the complexities of planning such an event, especially when it comes to the photography that will preserve those beautiful memories? In this guide, we’ll walk you through key planning steps, photography considerations, travel tips, and more to help you plan your destination wedding or elopement, with a focus on making the photography process smooth and stress-free.

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Why Couples Choose Destination Weddings / Elopements

Destination weddings and elopements allow couples to step away from the traditional wedding format and create an experience that is uniquely theirs. Instead of a large, formal event, many couples choose to exchange vows in an intimate setting, often surrounded by just a few close friends or even just the two of them.

Whether it’s the allure of a remote island, the charm of a European village, or the adventure of exploring a new city, destination weddings or elopements offer a chance to blend travel with celebration. These types of weddings allow couples to experience something new, making the day feel even more special. Plus, they often provide an opportunity for an incredible honeymoon immediately afterward!

In addition to the personal and romantic nature of destination weddings, they can also be more budget-friendly, as smaller guest lists and simple ceremonies tend to reduce overall costs. However, there are a few extra planning details to consider to make sure everything runs smoothly.

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Key Planning Steps for Destination Weddings and Elopements

1. Permits and Legal Considerations

When planning a destination wedding or elopement, it’s essential to research the local laws and requirements in your chosen location. Different countries and even U.S. states may have different rules regarding marriage licenses, permits for ceremonies, and officiants.

Some locations may require you to obtain a marriage license in advance, while others might allow you to marry on the spot with little to no paperwork. Make sure you know the legalities ahead of time so that you’re fully prepared when the big day arrives.

2. Travel and Accommodation Logistics

Traveling to a destination wedding or elopement location involves some planning. Flights, transportation, and accommodations for you and your guests (if applicable) need to be organized ahead of time. Start booking travel and accommodation early to get the best rates and ensure that there is enough availability.

If you’re having a destination wedding with guests, consider providing them with travel details well in advance, including recommendations for hotels, rental cars, and even local attractions. For elopements, you may want to arrange transportation between the venue and other key locations (like a celebratory dinner afterward) to streamline the process.

3. Timing is Everything

When you plan your destination wedding, timing is crucial. You’ll want to consider the time of year and the potential weather conditions in your chosen location. For example, tropical destinations may have a rainy season to consider, and some locations may be overly crowded with tourists during certain times of the year.

If you’re planning a wedding abroad, be sure to give yourself extra time for potential travel delays and jet lag. On top of that, factor in time for any activities you want to do before or after your wedding, such as a pre-wedding shoot or a post-wedding tour of the area.

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Choosing a Destination That Fits Your Vibe

Choosing the right destination is one of the most exciting parts of planning a destination wedding or elopement. The location should reflect both you and your partner’s personalities and the kind of experience you want to have. Whether it’s a serene mountaintop, a chic European city, or a relaxed beachside retreat, the destination will set the tone for the entire experience.

Think about your interests and what kind of environment you want for your ceremony. Are you drawn to nature, history, or adventure? Would you prefer a destination that is easily accessible or one that offers more of an off-the-beaten-path experience?

Also, consider your budget and how far your travel budget will stretch in terms of the destination, lodging, and any additional services or experiences you may want (e.g., pre-wedding shoots, spa treatments, etc.).

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Photography Considerations for Destination Weddings and Elopements

1. Time Zones and Jet Lag

A common challenge with destination weddings is managing the time difference between where you live and your destination. Time zone differences can sometimes leave you feeling tired or disoriented, especially in the days leading up to the wedding.

To avoid being too fatigued for the wedding, try to arrive at least a few days before your ceremony to allow yourself to adjust to the new time zone. As a couple, you can work with your photographer to plan your shoot at times of day that give you the best lighting, such as the early morning or late afternoon.

2. Scouting Locations

When choosing your destination, it’s important to research and even scout locations ahead of time. A professional photographer will often visit the destination beforehand to identify key spots for stunning backdrops and make sure everything is logistically sound.

For example, a beachside ceremony may be ideal at sunset, but if you’re getting married in a bustling city, there may be hidden, picturesque alleyways or rooftop views that offer a more intimate vibe. Scouting locations also ensures that there are no surprises, like unexpected crowds or areas that are closed off for maintenance.

If you’re eloping, consider working closely with your photographer to discuss the best locations in advance. They may have experience shooting in the area and can recommend the perfect places for your photos, helping you get the best shots possible.

3. Weather

Weather can be unpredictable, and when it comes to destination weddings, it’s no different. While some destinations offer nearly year-round perfect weather, others can be prone to rain, extreme temperatures, or other conditions that might impact your ceremony.

Planning for weather is key. Bring options like umbrellas or protective gear for rain, and have a backup plan for an indoor ceremony or shoot if necessary. Be sure to discuss the weather forecast with your photographer ahead of time so that they can make adjustments for lighting and settings.

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Packing + Travel Tips for Couples

When packing for a destination wedding or elopement, there are a few essentials you’ll need to consider. Here’s a quick packing guide to help you prepare for your big day:

• Wedding attire: If you’re traveling internationally or across the country, you’ll want to make sure your wedding dress or suit is packed carefully to avoid wrinkles or damage. Consider purchasing a travel garment bag to protect your attire.
• Photography gear: Be sure to talk with your photographer about any special requests or concerns regarding the types of photos you want. Depending on your destination, your photographer may need to bring extra gear (e.g., underwater cameras for beach weddings, lighting equipment for darker venues).
• Travel documents: Don’t forget your passport (if needed), marriage license, and any other necessary travel documents. Keep these in a secure, easily accessible location.
• Personal items: Don’t forget personal items like chargers, sunscreen, medications, and anything else you’ll need to feel comfortable during your trip.

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Example Timelines for Destination Weddings

To make sure everything runs smoothly on the big day, here’s a basic destination wedding timeline you can customize based on your location and preferences:

• Morning:
  • Hair and makeup
  • Get ready time for the couple
  • Photographer arrives for getting ready shots
• Afternoon:
  • Wedding ceremony
  • Family and group photos
  • Couple’s portrait session
• Evening:
  • Reception or celebratory dinner
  • First dance, speeches, and toasts
  • Sunset photos or additional portraits (if desired)
• Post-Wedding:
  • Consider a “day-after” shoot or additional honeymoon photos

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Real Stories or Galleries I’ve Shot Abroad

As a destination wedding and elopement photographer, I’ve had the privilege of shooting couples in stunning locations all around the world. From intimate beach elopements in the Caribbean to breathtaking mountaintop ceremonies in the Alps, each wedding I’ve photographed has had its own unique charm and magic.

[JENN NOTE: Add galleries of past destination wedding and elopement shoots here for real-world inspiration.]

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Call-to-Action: Dreaming of an Elopement? Let’s Plan It Together

If you’re dreaming of a destination wedding or elopement that’s uniquely yours, let’s work together to create the perfect plan. I specialize in capturing natural, candid moments that reflect your love and the beauty of your destination. Contact me today to start planning the wedding of your dreams.