Elopement Planning Checklist: How to Plan Your Adventure Elopement

Planning your elopement can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Unlike traditional weddings, elopements give you the freedom to create a day that’s truly about you—whether that’s hiking to a mountain peak, kayaking at sunrise, or simply sharing vows with a handful of loved ones. If you’re wondering how to plan your elopement, this step-by-step elopement planning checklist will walk you through every decision, from choosing your location and date to planning activities and creating a timeline.

As an Oregon and PNW elopement photographer, I’ve helped countless couples design days that feel adventurous, stress-free, and uniquely them. Here’s everything you’ll want to consider when planning your adventure elopement. (free elopement checklist download at end of blog post)

✅ The Complete Elopement Planning Checklist

Step 1: Big Picture Decisions

•  Choose your elopement location

•  Pick your season + weather considerations

•  Choose your date + set a backup date

•  Decide who’s coming (guests, micro wedding, or just you two)

Step 2: Personal Touches

•  Choose activities to include (kayaking, hiking, card games, helicopter tour, swimming, spelunking, etc.)

•  Think about meaningful traditions or rituals

•  Create a loose timeline (easier done with your photographer)

Step 3: Logistics

•  Hire your elopement photographer

•  Hire your officiant (or friend/family member ordained)

•  Secure permits or reservations

•  Plan travel + accommodations

Step 4: Attire + Gear

•  Choose elopement attire (dress, suit, shoes, accessories)

•  Decide if you want adventure gear (hiking boots, backpacks, wetsuits, etc.)

•  Bring rings, vow books, and keepsakes

Step 5: Extra Details

•  Pack snacks + drinks or arrange catering/picnic

•  Bring along music, card games, or keepsakes

•  Plan for “just us” moments (sunrise coffee, stargazing, sunset champagne)

•  Backup plan for unexpected weather

Choosing Your Elopement Location in the PNW 🌍

The location sets the tone for your entire elopement. Do you dream of exchanging vows on the Oregon Coast, hiking through the Hoh Rainforest, or flying to a bucket-list destination abroad? Think about accessibility, permits, and whether the terrain will work for your attire and your guests (if you’re inviting any).

Your elopement photographer can also be a huge resource here. We often scout locations, know the hidden gems, and can suggest the best spots for lighting and privacy.

Seasons + Weather: How to Plan Your Elopement with Flexibility ☀️❄️🌧️

Every season tells a different story. Summer brings glowing sunsets and long days but often comes with crowds. Winter is magical with snow-dusted mountains and cozy vibes, though travel can be tricky. Spring offers wildflowers, and fall brings vibrant colors—but both can be unpredictable.

The key is flexibility. Always prepare a backup plan, like having a covered location, renting a cabin nearby, or embracing the adventure with clear umbrellas. Your adventure elopement will be unforgettable no matter what the skies decide.

Choosing Your Elopement Date + Backup Date 📅

Once you’ve narrowed down the season, pick your exact date. Your date impacts everything—vendor availability, permits, crowd levels, and even what kind of activities are possible. For example, wildflowers in June, fiery foliage in October, or snowshoe vows in January.

Always set a backup date, too. Outdoor elopements sometimes face wildfires, storms, or unexpected closures. Having a Plan B ensures your day stays magical and stress-free.

Hiring Your Elopement Photographer 📸

Your photographer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Beyond capturing memories, photographers help with scouting locations, securing permits, building your timeline, and offering guidance throughout the process.

Choosing a photographer soon after setting your date makes everything easier. You’ll have someone to lean on for planning advice, location expertise, and logistical support—all while knowing your story will be captured authentically.

Who’s Coming? Micro Wedding vs. Elopement 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

One of the biggest decisions is whether it’s just the two of you or if you’ll invite a handful of loved ones. A micro wedding with 10–20 guests can feel intimate while still allowing family to be present. On the other hand, keeping it just the two of you simplifies logistics and lets you fully lean into adventure.

If you invite guests, make sure your chosen location is accessible, safe, and comfortable for everyone.

Adventure Elopement Activities to Include 🎲🚁🛶

Your elopement can be more than vows—it can be a full day of adventure. Imagine kayaking at sunrise, hiking to a hidden waterfall, playing card games with your friends, booking a helicopter ride, or even jumping into a lake together.

The beauty of an adventure elopement is weaving in experiences that feel like “you.” These activities make the day not just about a ceremony, but about creating memories you’ll never forget.

Traditions + Rituals 💍

Want to include personal touches? Maybe you’ll write letters to exchange before the ceremony, carry a family heirloom, or include a cultural tradition. Some couples choose to light candles, plant a tree, or share a first dance under the stars.

These small rituals bring depth to your elopement day, blending tradition with adventure in a way that feels personal and meaningful.

Creating Your Elopement Timeline with Your Photographer ⏰

Even though elopements are flexible, having a timeline helps keep the day flowing smoothly. Factor in travel time, hikes, and different lighting throughout the day.

This is best planned alongside your elopement photographer. We know how long portraits usually take, when golden hour hits, and how to build in downtime for snacks, coffee breaks, or just soaking in the moment. Collaborating ensures your day feels effortless and natural.

Hiring Your Officiant ✒️

You can hire a professional officiant or ask a loved one to get ordained online. Your officiant sets the tone of the ceremony—whether you want it spiritual, lighthearted, or deeply personal. Be sure to check the legal requirements for your state (or country) to make sure your marriage is valid.

Permits + Reservations 📝

Many epic elopement spots—like national parks, state parks, or beaches—require permits. These can sell out or take weeks to process, so apply early. The same goes for activities like helicopter tours or cave exploration—book ahead to avoid stress.

Travel + Accommodations for Your Oregon or Washington Elopement ✈️🏕️

Where you stay can shape the flow of your day. The closer your lodging is to your ceremony or adventure spot, the more efficient your travel will be. Unsure where to stay? Ask your PNW elopement photographer—we often know the best cabins, Airbnbs, or boutique stays that keep you close to the action.

Booking accommodations with your timeline in mind helps your day feel seamless and lets you spend more time adventuring, not driving.

Elopement Attire + Adventure Gear 👗🎒

Your attire should feel like you—but also be functional. Flowing dresses, stylish suits, and comfortable footwear are all great choices. Don’t be afraid to swap into boots or jackets if needed.

For adventure-heavy days, bring gear like backpacks, hiking boots, wetsuits, or headlamps. Pack light but smart, and always prioritize comfort alongside style.

Elopement Planning Details You Don’t Want to Forget ✨

It’s the little things that tie your day together. Rings, vow books, handwritten letters, and keepsakes make the experience personal. Bring snacks and water to keep your energy up, or plan a celebratory picnic or private dinner.

Fun extras like a portable speaker for your first dance, card games with friends, or champagne at sunset can make the day feel even more magical.

Backup Plans 🌦️

Even the most carefully planned elopement needs a safety net. Have an alternate ceremony spot in mind, bring umbrellas or warm blankets, and stay flexible. The truth is—sometimes the unexpected moments end up being the most memorable.

FAQ: Planning Your Elopement

How do you plan an elopement in Oregon?Start with your location and season, then set your date. From there, secure permits, book your photographer, and plan lodging close to your chosen spot for a stress-free adventure.

What’s the difference between a micro wedding and an elopement?A micro wedding includes guests (often 10–20) while an elopement is typically just the couple or a very small handful of people.

What activities can you include in your adventure elopement?Think kayaking, hiking, helicopter tours, spelunking, or even simple moments like coffee at sunrise or stargazing.

Do you need a planner for your elopement?Some couples hire planners, but often your elopement photographer doubles as a guide and planning resource—helping with locations, permits, and timelines.

Ready to Plan Your Adventure Elopement?

Your elopement should feel like the best adventure of your life. With this elopement planning checklist, you have everything you need to start dreaming big. If you’re looking for a PNW elopement photographer who will help you find the best locations, guide you through the planning process, and capture your day authentically—I’d love to connect.

💌 Let’s start planning your PNW adventure elopement together. Reach out via my contact page to start your journey to Forever💌

Download Free Elopement Planning Checklist here ⤵️

elopementplanningchecklist2025.pdf

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