Why Elope or Get Married in the Mountains?

Getting married is a significant milestone for everyone. It's supposed to be a day of joy, happiness, and love that we cherish for the rest of our lives. However, planning a traditional wedding can be overwhelming, time-consuming, and expensive, and the day-of can feel more chaotic than anything. That's why many couples opt to elope (or have a small intimate wedding), and what better place to elope than in the mountains? Here are six reasons why you should consider eloping in the mountains.

Eloping in the mountains could be the wild adventure you're looking for.

Last updated: March 12, 2024

Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for any elopement ceremony. The beauty of the mountains, with their towering peaks, lush forests, and glistening lakes, creates a romantic and intimate setting that is perfect for exchanging vows. Just imagine yourself standing in front of a snow-capped peak with your partner in front of you, ready to say his or her vows to you. Not only will the surroundings make you feel alive and invigorated, but the photos will tell an epic story! 

1. The Scenery:

Innsbruck, Austria elopement

Eloping (or having a small intimate wedding) in the mountains often means you'll have a private and intimate ceremony, free from the distractions of big traditional weddings. You don't have 50+ sets of eyes on you, there's no pressure of speaking in front of an audience, or if you say something stupid or trip. It's just you, your partner, and nature, creating an intimate and meaningful experience that you'll cherish forever.

Though you should definitely have a photographer there (shoot me a message), possibly a videographer, and you can choose if you want someone to marry you as well. Some people prefer to just read their vows to one another and make it completely ceremonial- it's up to you! No stress.

Chamonix, France

2. Privacy: 

Mountains offer a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and skiing to rock climbing and mountain biking. You can turn your elopement into a fun and adventurous trip, making memories that will last a lifetime. Find out which activities you can choose during your elopement.

You can also choose to have a day of ease, where it's just the two of you eloping, and then the next day do a "trash the dress" session and go wild! I mean, you would look absolutely bad-ass and stunning in a harness on the rock face, don't you think?

Here you can find some tips about which dress to wear for your adventure elopement.

3. Adventure: 

Italian Dolomites rock climbing elopement

PS- that's me on my special day!

Eloping in the mountains means you have the flexibility to choose where and when you want to get married. You can choose a scenic overlook, a secluded forest, or a rustic mountain lodge, creating a unique and personalized experience that reflects your personality and style. And you can choose how active you want to be, whether you want to hike, drive from spot to spot, or take a helicopter to a peak.

4. Flexibility: 

Queenstown New Zealand elopement

Eloping in the mountains is significantly cheaper than planning a traditional wedding. You don't have to worry about hiring as many vendors, renting a venue, or paying for a large guest list. You can save money and still have a beautiful and unforgettable wedding day. You can have a small, backyard dinner party for your VIPs when you get back home if anyone is sad about missing out on your wedding.

That being said, you can also take that bottomless wedding budget you had and have an absolutely unforgettable elopement adventure in the mountains. From luxury mountain huts to helicopter tours to private chefs, you can have an experience like no other.

If you want some information on different budgets on eloping in the Italian Dolomites, read this useful resource.

5. Cost: 

Rock climbing engagement Vancouver, Canada

It's an excuse to go somewhere really cool! You can elope in the Italian Dolomites, Swiss Alps, Austrian Alps, Bavaria (German Alps), or the French Alps (I'm really in love with Chamonix)...many possibilities. This can also be your wedding AND honeymoon at the same time, because why not?

6. Reason to Travel: 

Elopement in the Dolomites, Italy

Eloping in the mountains is a fantastic way to celebrate your love and commitment to one another. The stunning scenery, privacy, adventure, flexibility, and cost savings make it an ideal option for couples looking for an intimate and meaningful wedding experience. So, if you're considering eloping, don't hesitate to contact me to help you explore the beauty and serenity of the mountains for your special day.

Elopement at Lago di Braies, Italy

6 Reasons to Elope in the Mountains

  1. The scenery
  2. Privacy
  3. Adventure
  4. Flexibility
  5. Cost
  6. Reason to Travel

As a wedding & elopement photographer, I am very happy to share my years of expertise with you and give you more tips and tricks to help you make your dream wedding come true.

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Are you interested in going on a well-documented adventure with me? Then fill out the form with any questions you have or send me an email. I do my best to reply within 48 hours, although I could be out shooting a session or hiking in the mountains with no reception, so I do apologize for potential delays in my response. The best way to get in contact is definitely here or via direct email!