2025 Elopement Checklist
Last updated: April 17, 2025
Planning can be tough, but I'm trying to make it easier for you.
There is less stress and less to plan overall for an elopement, but that doesn't mean it's a walk in the park! So let me help you out with a checklist to make sure you don't forget anything. On this page, you'll learn all you need for a successful elopement and which steps you should undertake in which order.
1. Essential Documents:
- Valid passports or identification
- Marriage license or relevant legal documents (if applicable)
- Any permits required for the chosen location (normally not required in Europe)
- Driver's license (and International license if applicable)
2. Clothing and Accessories:
- Weather-appropriate attire (consider layers, waterproof clothing, and comfortable shoes, clear umbrellas)
- Bridal outfit or attire that suits your unique journey
- Accessories such as the rings, necklace, bracelet, veil, headpieces, cuff links, tie, perfume
- Extra set of clothes for any weather changes, after the ceremony, or just as your "outfit #2"
Don't forget those key items!
3. Safety and Outdoor Gear:
- Appropriate hiking or adventure gear (backpack, hiking shoes, harness, etc.)
- First aid kit
- Maps or GPS device
- Sunscreen, bug spray, and any necessary medications
- Snacks and water bottles for hydration
- Portable phone charger or power bank
4. Photography & Videography:
- Contact information and contract details for the photographer/videographer
- Shot list or specific photo requests
- Props or accessories for unique photo opportunities (champagne, sparklers, guitar, etc)
5. Ceremony Essentials:
- Vows or any readings you wish to include
- Rings and ring box
- Ceremony script or outline
- Decorations or items to personalize the ceremony space
- Officiant's contact information (if applicable)
Definitely don't forget the rings
6. Logistics and Planning:
- Detailed timeline or schedule of the day's events
- Contact information for vendors or professionals involved (planner, photographer, etc.)
- Transportation arrangements (car rentals, flights, etc.)
- Accommodation details, if necessary
- Backup plan in case of inclement weather or unexpected changes
7. Special Touches and Extras:
- Personalized gifts to reveal on the day of
- Music playlist or small portable speaker
- Blanket or picnic items for a cozy celebration
- Personalized wedding favors or mementos
- Find a list here of which vendors you need for your elopement
- Deciding which credit card to use when travelling (I highly recommend using Wise, it won't charge you 3% like most credit cards, it gives you an excellent conversion rate, and it's completely free! You even get cash back if you keep money on the account. If you need to transfer money and want a first free transfer, you can sign up using my referral code: Sign up for Wise)
"I feel like I need so much more for my journey..."
And you probably do! This is just a general checklist. Your day needs a personalized one. The only way for me to give you a personalized checklist is for you to tell me more about your day!
Reach out
Thanks for the message, I will get back to you ASAP!
hello@shawnaraephotography.com
Send me an email or fill out the form below!
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!
© Shawna Rae Photography 2025
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