Hey hi hello! It's Jess, your lead planner & photographer, here with the whole JLP team, ready to spill all the tea on creating the most magical elopement day ever. Have you been dreaming about an intimate celebration surrounded by mountain views, or even just starting to explore alternatives to a big traditional wedding? Either way, you're in the right place!

Let's dive into everything you need to know about how to elope and crafting an intentional, elevated elopement experience that feels 100% true to you. No stress, no family politics—just you, your lover, and an unforgettable day focused on what truly matters.

What Does "Eloping" Actually Mean?

Eloping has had a major glow-up in recent years! Gone are the days when eloping meant sneaking off to Vegas for a quickie ceremony that your family would freak out about later. That old-school definition? So outdated!

These days, eloping is all about creating an intentional, intimate celebration focused on what actually matters: you two and your love story! It's about choosing experiences over traditions that don't speak to you, and creating a day that feels 100% authentic rather than checking boxes on someone else's wedding planning checklist.

Understanding how to elope in today's world means embracing this new definition—it's about creating an experience that honors your unique relationship. Elopements aren’t just a two-hour photoshoot in your wedding attire anymore! Most of our couples choose to have us along for a full day or half day of celebration and activities! Your elopement can be a full wedding day experience—just without the parts that don't feel meaningful to you. It's about celebrating your love through experiences, not rushing through a quick ceremony just to say you did it.

Picture yourself in a jaw-dropping outdoor ceremony location that makes your heart skip a beat, sharing super personal vows that might make you ugly cry (in the best way possible!), and spending a full day having experiences that actually mean something to you both. And of course, having someone there to capture all those magical, unscripted moments so you can relive them forever!

Elopement vs. Intimate Wedding: What's the Difference?

Okay, so here's where we need to get a teensy bit technical (but I'll keep it fun, promise!). While people sometimes use these terms interchangeably (and honestly, that's totally fine!), there are some key differences worth noting if you're trying to figure out which vibe fits your vision better.

An elopement is typically just you two and maaaaybe up to 10 of your absolute favorite humans. The focus is primarily on the ceremony and experience rather than traditional wedding elements. Think epic location, heartfelt vows, champagne toast, and then a picnic or private chef dinner afterward. It's all about quality time, intentional moments, and zero stress!

An intimate wedding usually includes between 10-30 guests (once you hit the 30+ mark, you're creeping into small traditional wedding territory). You might incorporate some more traditional wedding elements—like a cute reception dinner, heartfelt toasts from your besties, maybe a first dance or cake cutting—but you're still keeping that intimate, personal feel that makes small celebrations so special.

The best part? There are absolutely no rules! You can borrow elements from both styles to create a day that feels perfectly, uniquely yours. Some of our couples have had just their immediate families present for the ceremony, then invited a few more friends to join for dinner after. Others have kept the ceremony completely private, then celebrated with loved ones the next day. Whatever feels right for you two is the correct answer, period!

But if you’re thinking of going the intimate wedding route and need help planning an intimate wedding instead. Check out our Intimate Wedding Guide here!

Is Eloping Right for You?

Okay, real talk—eloping isn't for everyone, and that's totally okay! But I have a feeling it might be perfect for you if you're craving a day that's completely tailored to your unique love story. Our couples choose to elope because they want that elevated, all-about-you experience where every single detail feels intentional and meaningful. They're looking for quality time with their person in a breathtaking setting, without having to manage the moving parts themselves. It's for couples who want the most special day of their lives to be a done-for-you experience with all the bells and whistles—think luxury accommodations, private chef experiences, custom florals, and epic locations—just without the 200-person guest list. If you'd rather spend your wedding day fully present with your lover instead of making small talk with distant relatives, this intimate celebration style might be calling your name!

Here's the thing: if you're looking for a day that truly reflects who you two are without compromise, if managing family opinions for months sounds exhausting, or if quality time with your lover sounds way better than checking boxes on a wedding planning checklist—eloping might just be your perfect match! If not… this guide & eloping might not be your perfect fit and that’s totally okay. Check out our Intimate Wedding Guide and see if that feels more like your vibe!

How To Announce Your Elopement

Now we're getting to the fun stuff! Whether you decide to tell people before or after your elopement, there are so many creative ways to announce your marriage to your extended family and friends. Let's dive into some of my absolute favorite announcement ideas!

Send "We're Eloping!" announcement cards to people you'd invite if you were having a traditional wedding. I'm such a sucker for beautiful paper goods, and these cards are such a special keepsake for your people! Pro Tip: If you're telling people in advance, include the date you're eloping so they can be thinking of you on that day, even from afar!

Create a wedding website (we love Zola or With Joy) with all the details of your love story and why you're choosing to elope. This gives your loved ones a chance to feel connected to your journey and provides a place for them to contribute to your honeymoon fund or wedding registry. (Yes, you can absolutely still have a registry even though you're eloping!) After you've personally told your closest people about your plans, this is something you can share more widely.

Pro Tip: Elope in Colorado then host a reception with all your extended family and friends. Even better, hire a videographer and play your wedding video + slideshow your gallery for a truly unique and unforgettable experience that makes them feel like they were there with you!

However you choose to spread the news, remember that most people will be thrilled for you once they see how happy you are. The joy of your elopement will be absolutely contagious—I promise!

How to Elope: Step by Step

Ready to learn exactly how to elope with intention and style? Let's break this down into manageable steps so you can plan the most amazing day ever without the overwhelm.

Step 1: Find Your Perfect Planner & Photographer

The single most important decision you'll make (besides choosing your human to marry, obviously) is picking the right team to bring your vision to life. When you're eloping, your photographer isn't just taking pictures—they're often guiding your entire experience.

When you're looking for your dream team, you want someone who gets your vibe immediately and just makes you feel understood, ya know? Like when you chat with them, you're thinking "yes, this person totally gets us!" You'll want someone with actual experience planning elopements in your dream location—not just a wedding photographer who's trying to jump on the elopement trend.

The right photographer/planner combo will offer serious planning assistance and location guidance—someone who can tell you exactly where that perfect mountain view is and what time of day the light hits just right. And since they'll be with you during some pretty intimate moments (hello, first look tears!), you need someone who makes you feel completely at ease.

Their photography style should give you all the feels when you look at their portfolio. Does your heart flutter? Can you picture yourself in those photos? And their communication style should just click with yours. Basically, you're looking for someone who feels like a friend—someone you'd actually want to hang out with on your wedding day! Trust me, that chemistry with your team matters way more than you might think.

When you're reviewing portfolios, pay attention to:

How couples look in their photos—do they seem posed or natural?
The way the photographer captures emotions and candid moments
If the locations shown align with your vision
Whether you can picture yourself in their images

Take the time to jump on a video chat with potential photographers. This is the perfect opportunity to see if you click and if they understand what matters most to you for your day.

Step 2: Choose Your Location

This is where the magic really happens! Where in the world do you want to say "I do"? The options are literally endless, but here are some of our absolute favorite spots that we know like the back of our hands:

Pro Tip: Visit my Pinterest profile for real-life elopement photos from these beautiful locations!

Breckenridge, Colorado

Breck is the perfect blend of accessibility and jaw-dropping mountain views. From stunning alpine lakes with sandy beaches to aspen groves that glow gold in fall, Breckenridge offers year-round beauty without requiring a strenuous hike to reach the good stuff. Plus, it's less than 2 hours from Denver International Airport! Explore our Breckenridge Elopement Guide.

Crested Butte, Colorado

Known as the Wildflower Capital of Colorado, Crested Butte is pure magic in the summer when meadows are exploding with color. The charming downtown, epic mountain views, and off-the-beaten-path feel make this the perfect spot for couples looking for a true mountain escape. Check out our Crested Butte Elopements Guide.

Telluride, Colorado

If you're dreaming of dramatic mountain scenery that will leave you speechless, Telluride delivers in a big way. With its box canyon setting, epic waterfalls, and charming town, it's the definition of mountain luxury. Head here for some Telluride Elopement Inspiration.

Moab, Utah

For something unlike any other, consider the red rock magic of Moab. Those iconic arches, otherworldly landscapes, and desert sunsets create a ceremony backdrop that feels like another planet. Perfect for spring and fall celebrations (summer is way too hot, trust us!). Check out our Moab Elopement Guide for more.

Jackson, Wyoming

For the ultimate Grand Teton views, Jackson can't be beat. Whether you're picturing alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, or golden aspen groves, Jackson offers some of the most iconic mountain landscapes in the country. Explore our Jackson Elopement Guide for all the deets.

The best part? When you book with us, you'll get access to our exclusive location guides for each of these areas, featuring secret spots that you won't find on Google (and that most tourists don't know about!).

Step 3: Choose Your Date

Picking the perfect date is all about balancing the season you're dreaming of with when your favorite vendors are available. Here are some things to consider:

Season: Each location has prime times to visit. For mountains, summer brings wildflowers while fall offers golden aspens. Desert locations like Moab are perfect in spring and fall but unbearable in summer.

Weekday vs. Weekend: Weekdays almost always mean fewer crowds at popular, nature-forward locations.

Sunrise vs. Sunset: Many epic locations are best experienced at sunrise when you'll have more privacy and beautiful light. But waking up early for your elopement isn’t everyone’s cup of tea.

Vendor Availability: The best photographers and planners often book 12-18 months in advance, especially for prime dates.

Our advice? Start with your dream location and season, then check availability with your must-have vendors before finalizing your date.

Pro Tip: Our favorite day of the week to elope? Friday! Welcome dinner Thursday, elopement Friday, then spend the rest of your weekend exploring your destination together! It’s truly the best way to make the most out of your wedding weekend experience.

Step 4: Dream Up Your Perfect Day

This is where eloping gets really fun! Unlike traditional weddings with their set formulas, your elopement day can include literally anything that brings you joy.

Here's a date night idea we love: Grab your lover, open a bottle of wine, and dream together. If you could design your perfect day from scratch—no rules, no expectations—what would it look like?

When would you wake up?
What would the setting be?
Who (if anyone) would be there with you?
What activities would you include?
What foods would you enjoy?
What moments would feel most meaningful?

There are no wrong answers here! Your day could include:

A sunrise first look followed by coffee and pastries with a view
A helicopter ride to a remote mountain location
Exchanging vows at sunset on a cliffside
A picnic lunch in a wildflower meadow
Canoeing on an alpine lake
A private chef experience at your luxury rental
Dancing under the stars
Stargazing and s'mores by a firepit

The beauty of eloping is that your day gets to be 100% about experiences that matter to you. No obligatory dances, no cake cutting just for photos, no traditions that don't resonate.

Step 5: Book Your Dream Vendor Team

Beyond your photographer/planner, you'll want to consider a few key vendors to complete your dream team. Our JLP couples typically invest around $30k+ on their entire elopement experience—and for good reason! This isn't about cutting corners or DIYing your day. It's about crafting a completely elevated celebration with all the special touches that make your day feel effortless yet extraordinary. When you're creating a day this meaningful, surrounding yourself with the right team makes all the difference.

Florist: Even for simple elopements, a gorgeous bouquet & ceremony ground installation elevates your photos and brings your color palette to life. Real, professional photos are non-negotiable, trust us!

Hair & Makeup: Professional styling ensures you feel amazing and look flawless in photos, even with mountain winds or desert heat.

Officiant: Whether you self-solemnize (legal in Colorado!), ask a loved one, or hire a pro, make sure your ceremony feels authentic. (Your photographer may be ordained also, we are!, so check with them before booking anyone here!)

Private Chef or Catering: For an elevated, done-for-you celebration meal after your ceremony.

Rentals: Imagine a beautifully set long table with chairs or benches, cozy place settings, candles in hurricane glasses—all set up and broken down without you lifting a finger. We promise you, this is the piece that will tie it all together effortlessly. This is where the memories are made, your first meal is enjoyed, and your evening unfolds effortlessly. You’ll never regret investing in this part of your day.

Videographer: For high-quality, professionally crafted films that capture the movement and sound of your day. Many of our couples opt for a mix of digital and Super8 for that vintage, timeless feel. These films are perfect to share at a reception back home and preserve your vows in a way photos simply can't.

Content Creator: While photographers and videographers create your formal wedding media, content creators bring a relatable, behind-the-scenes vibe with next-day delivery straight to your iPhone. They're the wedding vendor you didn't even know you needed—capturing candid moments that complement your professional photo and video perfectly.

Transportation: Essential if you'll be inviting loved ones! Having dedicated transportation means everyone arrives on time and together, with no stress about directions or parking at your remote location.

Always, always inquire through a vendor’s website rather than sliding into their DMs on Instagram. Trust us on this one—that contact form on their website exists for a reason, and it helps make sure your inquiry doesn't get lost in a sea of social media notifications.

When you reach out, include all your important details from the jump—your date (or date range if you're flexible), your dream location, and a little peek into your vision. I can't tell you how much it helps vendors get excited about your day when you make it personal! Tell them specifically why you're drawn to their work. Whatever made you go "OMG yes, this is our person!", include it!

And when you find that dream vendor who just gets you? Be ready to lock them down with a contract and deposit. Some of the best vendors in the elopement world can book up super fast—often 12-18 months in advance for prime dates. So once you've found your perfect match, don't wait around too long to make it official!

Step 6: Book Travel & Lodging

Where you stay will seriously set the tone for your entire elopement experience! This definitely isn't the time to skimp on accommodations. Your getting-ready space is where you'll spend the first magical moments of your wedding day, and it might also be where you return for your intimate celebration after saying "I do."

You'll want to find a place with tons of natural light (this is a non-negotiable for those dreamy getting-ready photos!), plenty of space to spread out all your things (because let's be real, even a "simple" elopement comes with a fair amount of stuff), and a style that vibes with your overall vision. Think about waking up on your wedding day—do you picture yourself sipping coffee on a mountain cabin deck, or are you more drawn to a chic desert hideaway with minimalist design?

Your lodging can even do double duty as both your getting-ready space and reception venue. Imagine saying your vows at a stunning overlook, then returning to your amazing A-frame for a private chef dinner under the stars! We've helped couples find the most insane properties with hot tubs overlooking mountain ranges, floor-to-ceiling windows that frame perfect views, and outdoor fire pits perfect for post-ceremony champagne and cake. Trust us, your future selves will thank you for choosing a place that feels special!

Pro Tip: If you’re looking for quality places, we created a whole blog of our favorite Airbnb’s in Colorado, Wyoming, and Utah!

Step 7: Handle the Logistics

This is where having an experienced planner is worth its weight in gold! You'll need to navigate:

Legal Requirements:

Marriage license from the county where you're eloping
Officiant requirements (or self-solemnization if allowed)
Witness requirements (or lack thereof)
Any waiting periods or residency requirements

Permits:

Photography permits for your location
Special use permits for ceremonies in national parks or public lands
Entrance fees for parks
Parking permits if needed

Weather Contingencies:

Always, always have a backup plan
Consider rain, snow, high winds, or extreme temperatures
Remember that weather creates some of the most magical photo opportunities!

The good news? When you work with us, we handle all of this for you. No need to stress about researching permit requirements or figuring out county clerk office hours—that's what we're here for!

Step 8: Planning for Guests (If You're Having Them)

If you're including a small group of loved ones in your day (which can be absolutely amazing!), there are a few extra things to think about. You'll want to be super clear in your communication about what everyone should expect. I'm talking detailed location info (with real directions, not just "meet us at the pretty meadow"), exact timing, and what the heck they should wear. Nothing worse than your mom showing up in heels when you're getting married on a mountain trail, am I right?

Since you'll likely be in a destination spot, direct your loved ones to lodging recommendations nearby. If everyone's staying in the same area, you might even be able to arrange some group activities before or after your actual elopement day. And don't forget about transportation logistics, especially if you're heading somewhere remote! Trust me, your guests will appreciate not having to figure out how to get to that hidden alpine lake on their own.

And let's not forget about the doggos in the family! If you're anything like me, the thought of getting married without your soul dog by your side feels straight-up wrong. The good news? Including your pup in your elopement is totally doable and honestly adds so much joy to the day! Whether they're your ring bearer, flower pup, or just there for moral support and cuddles, there are tons of creative ways to make them part of your celebration. (They can even sign your marriage license with their paw print in Colorado—how cute is that?!) Just make sure to choose a pet-friendly location and accommodation, pack their essentials, and maybe arrange for someone to be on dog duty during parts of the day so you can fully relax. Want more ideas on how to include them? Check out our blog on 5+ Creative Ways to Include Your Dog in Your Elopement!

Lastly, if any of your loved ones have accessibility concerns, it's super important to plan for those in advance. We've helped couples find beautiful, accessible ceremony locations that still deliver those epic views without requiring everyone to hike a mile in. And finally, think about little ways to make your guests feel special and included while still keeping the focus on your experience. Maybe that's giving them each a special role, including a group toast after your ceremony, or sharing a meal together once you're officially married!

Step 9: How to Tell Your Loved Ones

Okay, let's tackle one of the most common questions we get from couples: "How do I tell people we're eloping?" We totally get that this can feel like the trickiest part, especially if you're choosing not to include certain family members who might have been expecting a traditional wedding invitation.

Here's my best advice for before your elopement: Be honest and direct, but kind. Have those conversations sooner rather than later, and focus on what you're choosing to do rather than what you're choosing not to do. You might say something like: "We've decided to have an intimate ceremony that's just the two of us in the mountains. We love you so much and value your support, but we've realized that having a traditional wedding just doesn't feel right for us. We're so excited to celebrate with you when we return!" It also doesn’t hurt to reiterate the fact that you’re hiring an amazing elopement photographer to document every important moment for them to see afterward! (cough, cough the JLP team)

The key is to emphasize that your decision isn't about excluding people—it's about creating an experience that feels authentic to you as a couple. Most people will understand this if you frame it as a positive choice rather than a rejection. And remember to reassure them that you still value their love and support! That part matters a lot.

After your elopement, there are tons of sweet ways to include your people in your joy! You can send out beautiful announcement cards with your favorite photo, host a super casual celebration when you return, share a curated gallery of images with your closest family and friends, or create a stunning album to pass around at your post-elopement party. I've seen couples host everything from backyard BBQs to fancy restaurant dinners after their elopements, and they're always filled with so much love.

Oh! And one of our absolute favorite ways to include your loved ones even if they won't be physically present on your day: ask them to write you letters to read on your elopement day! When we're planning with our couples who are eloping just the two of them, we always suggest having family and friends write heartfelt notes that you can open and read together. There's something so special about taking a quiet moment, and reading words of love and encouragement from the people who mean the most to you. Some couples also love having video messages they can watch later! It's such a beautiful way to feel connected to your people even when you're having this intimate moment just the two of you.

At the end of the day, remember this: it's YOUR day. While it's totally natural to consider others' feelings (because you're a thoughtful human!), your wedding day should ultimately reflect what feels most meaningful to you and your lover. The people who truly love you will understand that—even if it takes them a minute to get there.

Step 10: Marry Your Person & Soak In Every Moment

The day has finally arrived! Now comes the best part—actually experiencing all you've planned. Our biggest piece of advice? Be present. Your elopement day will fly by, and it's easy to get caught up in the schedule or worry about little details.

Trust your vendor team to handle the logistics and allow yourself to fully experience each moment. Cry if you feel like crying. Laugh until your face hurts. Take mental snapshots throughout the day.

Some of our favorite ways to stay present:

Start your day slowly—no rushing!
Put your phone away (that's what your photographer & content creator is for)
Take a few minutes alone with your new spouse right after the ceremony
Include quiet moments in your timeline to just soak it all in

Pro Tip: An important part of understanding how to elope successfully is knowing what to pack for your elopement day. If you’re on the hunt for a list of essentials to bring for your elopement day & worried you’re missing something, check out our What to Pack for Your Elopement blog!

Step 11: Preserve Your Memories

After all the magic of your day, you'll want to relive those moments for years to come. The best way to do that? A custom-designed fine-art album that tells the story of your day.

Digital files are wonderful (and you'll definitely get those too!), but there's something magical about flipping through physical pages of your memories. Your album becomes an heirloom that you'll cherish forever—something to show your children and grandchildren someday.

Our album design process is completely hands-off for you. We'll curate the perfect selection of images that tells the complete story of your day, design a layout that flows beautifully, and deliver a luxury album that takes your breath away every time you open it. Head here for more info on our album creation process & what your elopement album could look like!!

How to Elope: All About The JLP Experience

When you book with our team, you're getting way more than just stunning photos. You're getting a complete, done-for-you elopement experience with experts who've helped countless couples create magical days in the mountains.

Our process is intentionally designed so you can share your vision, then we make it happen. From scouting secret ceremony spots to crafting custom timelines that prioritize quality time together, we handle all the details so your day feels completely effortless yet elevated.

Here's what sets us apart:

Planning Guidance: Our 60+ page planning guide walks you through every aspect of creating your perfect day.

Location Expertise: We've spent years exploring hidden corners of our locations, finding secret spots most tourists (and even many locals) don't know about.

Vendor Connections: Our network of trusted vendors ensures every aspect of your day is handled by professionals who share our commitment to excellence including exclusive discounts!

Documentary Approach: We're passionate about capturing real moments as they unfold naturally—no stiff poses or forced smiles.

Inclusive Experience: We create a safe, welcoming space for ALL couples to celebrate their love authentically.

Ready to Create Your Perfect Elopement Day?

Now that we've walked through all the essential elements of how to elope, from selecting your dream location to preserving your memories afterward, you’re ready to start planning! Planning can (and should!) be fun, and you definitely don't have to do it alone. We're here to bounce ideas around, answer all your questions, and handle the details so you can focus on creating memories that'll last a lifetime. For more resources on how to elope in your dream destination, grab our free elopement planning checklist here! Or if you’re just ready to chat about your dream day, hit us up on our contact page or just scroll down below!

Remember, there's no right or wrong way to elope—there's only what feels true to you. And we can't wait to help you bring that vision to life!

Tell Us Your Wedding Vision—watch us Make It Happen

We can’t wait to hear all that you’ve been dreaming up! Our couples invest an average of $8,000 in a seamless, all-in-one photography and planning experience. Fill out the form below, and we’ll be in touch within 48 business hours to start planning!

How to Elope || The All-Inclusive Guide