by Through Lindsey’s Lens

Elopement can be fun, adventurous and the experience of a lifetime! Here are a few helpful tips to make sure it stays that way.

1. Get your marriage license in the state you plan to have your wedding ceremony in. 

The reason you should follow this as a rule of thumb is that most states won’t recognize your marriage if you got married in another state, but then, after having come back to your original state, tried to get the license in your original state. For example, if you plan to get married in Colorado, but are from Nebraska, get a Colorado marriage certificate. 

2. Double check your venue bookings.

Through all the excitement, it has happened where there has been a botched booking. Whether the wrong date was accidentally put in, or some other clerical error was made, it is extremely important to double check before you even leave on your elopement! If filing online, make sure you receive an emailed receipt of the booking and all that is included. You don’t want to get there and only have half of what you were expecting to have. 

3. Make sure you have enough time.

If you plan to have your ceremony further outside of city limits, add at least 20 more minutes to your destination arrival time. Depending on the terrain, unexpected road work or closures, or inclement weather it’s wise to give yourselves ample time to get there. 

4. Find and book your photographer well in advance! 

Weddings, ceremonies and special events are happening all around us all the time. It happens often, especially around certain times of the year, that photographers are completely booked. Make sure you book a photographer well in advance from the day of your ceremony to ensure you have those memorable pictures of what will be one of the best days of your lives.

5. Don’t Stress

Last, but not least, don’t over stress yourselves! This is your adventure. Your special day. If something doesn’t feel right about a place or setting, don’t book for it. Even if you’re feeling pressured for a specific place, follow your gut. 

Happy Elopement!

Good luck on your journey! May your elopement day be filled with happiness, adventure and love!

For some elopement inspiration, click here! To book me for your big day, click here. Thanks for reading!