How to Plan an Elopement in 10 Easy Steps

Updated February 2024

If you’re wondering how to plan an elopement then we’re here to help you in ten easy steps to make sure your day is fun and stress free. Planning an adventure elopement is such an exciting process! The day is planned around what you love doing together and there are endless possibilities of what you can include on your day. There are some essential items that you have to organise before the day so we have put together this adventure elopement checklist to make the planning process a little easier so you can focus on the excitement!

1. Choose a Location

Helping our couples research and choose a location is one of our favourite parts of our job. Finding the perfect spot that suits who you are and what you love doing together will make your day so special.
See our blog: How to Choose the Best Elopement Location in the Canadian Rocky Mountains

2. Decide on What Time of Year and a Date

Each season brings a unique beauty to a place. Start your research based on your favourite season and see what would be accessible at that time of year. There are amazing activities to do year round in the Rocky Mountains!
See our blog: Best Time of Year to Get Married in Banff National Park

3. Book Your Photographer

This might be the most important step in planning your elopement! Your photographer will have the best local knowledge of the area. They will help you plan your day and help suggest possible locations for your elopement. 

Learn more: Steps to Book Your Banff Elopement Photographers (How it Works)

4. Book Your Vendors

Some common vendors you might need to consider for your day may include: commissioner, florist, hair and makeup, cabin, helicopter, cake, restaurant reservation etc. There are a ton of amazing wedding vendors in the area. Reach out to us and we can let you know who we love working with in and around the Banff area!

5. Apply For Your Marriage Licence and Any Permits You Might Need

This process is different for each province, state and country. Make sure you do your research on what you need to legally get married in your desired location.

6. Decide Who Your Witnesses Will Be

We are more than happy to be your witnesses! You can also invite along family members or friends to sign the paperwork.

7. Book Travel Arrangements

You may need to look into flights, accommodation, car rentals and other activities for your elopement! Things tend to book up early during the summer months in Banff and Canmore. To have your top choices for accommodation it would be a good idea to book at least a few months out.

8. Order And Prepare Your Elopement Essentials

Your wedding dress, suit, rings, vow books and adventure gear! Think about how you will be spending your day while choosing your wedding dress and suit. If you plan on spending the day in the mountains it might be beneficial to have a dress that allows you to move a bit more freely. If you plan to hike to your ceremony or portrait location choose something that doesn’t weigh a ton as you will be carrying it up!  Remember to leave time for fittings if you need them as well.

9. Plan Your Timeline For The Day

Depending on how you want your day to go you will now begin to think about your day of timeline. There are so many different ways you can set up your day and it should be based around what’s important to you both. As photographers, the time of day is always important to us to insure we can take the best photos possible for you. Sunrise and Sunset are the ideal times to shoot and we will always recommend structuring your day around these ideal lighting conditions. We have written a blog about elopement timelines to help you start your planning process. 
See our blog: How to make an Elopement Day Timeline

10. Create a packing list for your amazing adventure!

Make sure you don’t miss anything and you are prepared for your day.
See our blog: Adventure Elopement Packing Guide

And there you have it! Now you are both all set to plan an amazing elopement of your dreams. If you have any other questions please feel free to reach out to us anytime! We are always here to help and love hearing about your unique story and plans!