Eloping is exciting, romantic, and full of surprises, some good, some a little unexpected. As a travel wedding photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing couples who chose to skip the traditional wedding and do things their way. Along the way, I’ve seen firsthand that eloping isn’t always what people think it is. Here are seven things no one tells you about eloping (but you’ll be glad to know before your big day!).

Tips from a Travel Wedding Photographer

1. Eloping Can Still Be Stressful

It’s easy to think that cutting down the guest list also cuts out all the stress. But eloping comes with its own challenges, things like permits, travel logistics, unpredictable weather, or even nerves about reading your vows in a new place. The good news? With fewer moving parts, those stressors are easier to manage. And as your elopement photographer, I’ll help guide you through the day so you can focus on the fun.

2. Elopements Don’t Have to Be Cheap

A common misconception is that eloping means you’re just running to the courthouse to save money. While it can be budget-friendly, many couples choose to splurge on what matters most to them. For some, that’s a gourmet dinner; for others, it’s the adventure of a lifetime, or investing in an elopement photographer who will capture every moment. Eloping is about prioritizing, not penny-pinching.

3. It Doesn’t Have to Be Just the Two of You – Travel Wedding Photographer

Eloping doesn’t always mean sneaking away alone. You can absolutely invite your closest friends or family members to join you. I’ve photographed intimate elopements where the couple exchanged vows with their parents or siblings present, and it was just as moving as a big wedding, sometimes even more so. The beauty of eloping is that you get to decide who’s there.

4. Eloping = More Freedom to Create an Experience

This is where eloping really shines. Want to say your vows and then hop on a helicopter ride? Hike to the top of a mountain? Celebrate with tacos and margaritas? You can! Elopements give you the freedom to design a day that feels like an adventure. And as your elopement photographer, I’ll be there to capture not only your vows but also the unique experiences that make your day unforgettable.

5. No One’s Timeline but Your Own – Travel Wedding Photographer

With a traditional wedding, your day often runs on a strict timeline. Elopements? Not so much. You can wake up slowly, have coffee together, say your vows when the light is just right, and celebrate however you want. There’s no pressure to rush from one thing to the next. As your photographer, I work with you to make sure photos flow naturally into your day, instead of pulling you away from it.

6. Personalization Is Endless

Eloping opens up endless possibilities for making your day uniquely yours. From handwritten vows and non-traditional attire to picnics, campfires, or stargazing, you can craft a day that feels like you. Every couple I’ve worked with has infused their elopement with personality, and it’s always my favorite thing to capture as their elopement photographer.

7. Eloping Doesn’t Have to Mean City Hall

When most people think of eloping, they picture a quick ceremony at City Hall. (Or in my case, a DMV, yes, really!) But the truth is, you can elope anywhere. Picture exchanging vows on a beach, in the desert, at a mountaintop, or even in your own backyard. The location possibilities are limitless, and that’s one of the reasons I love documenting elopements. Like this sweet elopement at the Parthenon in Centennial Park!

Places to Elope Around the World by a Travel Wedding Photographer

Eloping can take you just about anywhere, which is one of the reasons I love it so much as an elopement photographer. Some of my favorite destinations to capture couples include:

• Iceland: For couples who want dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and the kind of scenery that feels like another planet.
• Big Island, Hawaii: Perfect for mixing adventure with romance, think black sand beaches, lush jungles, and fiery sunsets.
• Nashville: My home base, where you can mix a laid-back Southern vibe with iconic city spots or nearby countryside views.

No matter where you go, your elopement location should reflect your personalities and the kind of adventure you want to have together.

Looking for more dynamic options? Check out my blog on the best places to elope in the US for even more inspiration, from epic national parks to hidden gems you might not have thought of yet.

Wrapping It Up with a Travel Wedding Photographer’s Perspective

Eloping is about freedom, adventure, and crafting a day that feels completely your own. Hopefully, these things no one tells you about eloping give you a new perspective on what’s possible. Whether it’s just the two of you or a few of your favorite people, your elopement can be as adventurous, intimate, or laid-back as you want. If you’re planning your elopement and looking for an elopement photographer to capture it all, I’d love to be part of your story, send me a message!

And don’t worry, we’ll keep it a whole lot more romantic than a DMV elopement story 😉

Planning your elopement and looking for more tips or inspiration? I’ve got you covered!

How to Elope In Nashville Tennessee
Unique Wedding Ideas That Made This Fall Creek Falls Celebration So Them
Top Places to Get Married in Nashville TN, Especially If You’re Eloping!