How to Plan an Elopement That Feels Like You

There’s no single way an elopement should look. That’s the beauty of it. You get to build a day that reflects who you are, how you move through the world, and what feels right for the two of you. Some couples want a little adventure while others want to just chill and relax together. Some want to be completely alone and some want to bring a handful of their closest loved ones.

There’s no wrong way to do it! When we start planning together, my job is to help you sort through all the possibilities and choose the pieces that feel right for you. You don’t have to commit to a whole day sunrise to sunset adventure like other elopement photographers talk about, and you don’t have to do things just because you’re “supposed to.”

So in this blog I’ll share some of my tips as an Acadia elopement photographer and planner on how to plan an elopement that feels like YOU.

When Do You Want to Elope?

I recommend picking the time of day based on your preferences. Are you morning people? Sunset people? Perhaps you have kids and we need to work around nap time?

We should also take into consideration crowd control. Some want as much privacy as possible and are willing to wake up before dawn for it. Others want convenience and daylight and the ability to sleep in. Mid-day times also may make more sense for you if you have guests and/or kiddos you need to consider. However, non-sunrise times often mean more people around, so it depends on how you want your day to look like.

We talk through all of this. How you want the day to feel. What your energy is like. What kind of space you want around you. And from there, we create a timeline that actually supports the experience you want.

When Should You Have Your Ceremony?

Some couples read vows right at the beginning so the nerves melt away early. Others choose to explore first, take some photos, and have their ceremony in the middle of their day and celebrate afterwards. And others choose to go through their whole day first and then have a private vow exchange last.

If you’re bringing guests, you  may even choose to have a ceremony early amongst your loved ones and then have a private vow reading with just the two of you present. It is totally up to you how you choose to plan your day!

Wear Whatever Makes You Feel Like Yourselves

You can wear whatever you want. Some of my couples go for more traditional wedding attire, like a gown and a suit, while others wear a non-traditional black dress, thrifted outfits, or something casual from an online boutique. Some keep it simple with flowy white dresses or a jumpsuit.  Same goes for grooms: some wear traditional suits while some go totally casual and wear slacks and a button down.

Some wear hiking boots under their dress, and others kick off their shoes completely. And if you’re not a dress person or hate the idea of formalwear? Skip it. You’ve got options.

What matters is that you feel comfortable and free in your movements! But you should consider layers and footwear suitable for the terrain.

To Hike Or Not To Hike?

You do not need to hike to have an adventurous elopement — even in Acadia. If hiking isn’t your thing, or you’re just not in the mood, there are plenty of beautiful locations that require minimal walking. Some couples want the views without the sweat (I got you!), and others love the idea of a short hike built into the experience. 

I’ve also had couples who wanted include a beach but not deal with sand, so I’ll take you to rocky shoreline spots like Hunter’s Beach or Little Hunter’s Beach. Either way, we’ll pick locations that align with your comfort level and vibe.

What About Bringing Guests?

Lots of couples choose to elope just the two of them. It can feel so freeing to not have to work around anyone else’s schedule, preferences, or travel plans. If you’re worried about how others (especially family) will feel, know that you’re not alone. I’ve had many couples express guilt about not including their parents, but they also knew deep down they needed the day to be just theirs.

If you do go guest-free, I’ve got witness logistics covered:

→ I can serve as one, and your officiant can bring the second (if they offer that), or we can usually find a kind park visitor who’s happy to help.

And if you do want to bring a few guests, including your dog, we’ll make a plan that works around everyone comfortably.

Let’s Figure It Out Together!

If you’re planning a Maine elopement and want a day that feels effortless and meaningful, and not rushed, overwhelming, or a full day photoshoot… that’s exactly what I specialize in. 

I help couples create intimate, intentional elopements that honor who they are and what they value. And with my experience, location knowledge, and calm, steady guidance, you’ll never have to guess or figure things out alone.

So, let’s start planning together! Take a look at my Maine elopement packages and inquire here — dates fill quickly, and I’d love to hold space on my calendar for you.