Avoid These 10 Elopement Planning Mistakes
Planning an elopement can feel like a dream—just you, your partner, and an epic backdrop that perfectly reflects your love story. But as with any type of wedding planning, there are a few pitfalls that couples can accidentally stumble into. The good news? These mistakes are entirely avoidable with a little insight and preparation. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top 10 elopement planning mistakes and, most importantly, how to avoid them.
Mistake #1: Forgetting to Plan for Weather
When it comes to elopements, especially in breathtaking destinations like Colorado, the weather can be unpredictable. From sudden snowstorms to surprise downpours, not planning for weather can quickly derail your day.
Why It’s a Problem:
A beautiful mountaintop ceremony under clear skies can turn into a challenge if a storm rolls in or the temperatures drop unexpectedly. Being caught unprepared can leave you cold, wet, or scrambling to adjust plans last-minute.
How to Avoid It:
Check the Forecast: Research weather patterns for your chosen location and season. Mountain weather can change quickly, so even summer ceremonies should factor in potential rain or chilly evenings.
Pack Smart: Bring weather-appropriate gear such as rain jackets, umbrellas, boots, and layers. If it’s winter, pack warm accessories like gloves and scarves.
Have a Plan B: Choose a backup location or an alternative timing plan in case of bad weather. For example, moving the ceremony indoors or adjusting the time for better conditions.
By planning for the weather, you’ll ensure that no matter what nature throws your way, your elopement stays magical.
Mistake #2: Skipping Permits and Legal Requirements
One of the most overlooked parts of elopement planning is ensuring you have the proper permits and legal documentation in place. While eloping often feels carefree and spontaneous, some locations have specific rules that you need to follow.
Why It’s a Problem:
Failing to secure permits can lead to fines or even being asked to leave your chosen location mid-ceremony. Plus, unclear marriage license requirements can create stress if your union isn’t legally recognized.
How to Avoid It:
Do Your Research: Many popular elopement spots, like Rocky Mountain National Park or Garden of the Gods, require special permits for ceremonies and professional photography. Permit fees typically range from $50 to $300 depending on the location.
Understand Marriage Laws: In Colorado, for example, you can self-solemnize your marriage, meaning you don’t need an officiant. However, you still need to obtain a marriage license, which costs $30 and can be done at any county clerk’s office.
Apply Early: Permits often have limited availability, especially for national parks, so apply as soon as you choose your date.
Being proactive about permits and legalities ensures a smooth, stress-free day where you can focus on your vows—not paperwork.
Mistake #3: Not Hiring the Right Photographer/Videographer
Your elopement day is one of the most significant moments in your life, and having the right photographer and videographer to capture it is essential. Choosing the wrong professional—or skipping one altogether—can leave you with memories that feel incomplete.
Why It’s a Problem:
Elopements are unique, intimate experiences that require a specific skill set to capture. A photographer or videographer without experience in elopements may struggle to balance the couple’s emotions with the beauty of the location.
How to Avoid It:
Hire Specialists: Look for professionals who focus on elopements or adventure weddings. They’ll understand how to navigate remote locations, unpredictable lighting, and intimate moments.
Check Portfolios: Make sure their style aligns with your vision, whether you prefer candid, moody, or light and airy photos.
Invest Wisely: While it’s tempting to cut costs, this is one area where quality matters. Expect to invest $3,500 to $10,000 for top-tier elopement photo and video packages in Colorado.
At the end of the day, your photos and videos will be how you relive your elopement for years to come, so prioritize finding a professional who will do your story justice.
Mistake #4: Overpacking or Forgetting Essentials
When planning an elopement, it’s easy to go overboard and pack too much—or worse, forget something crucial. The last thing you want is to be overwhelmed by unnecessary items or realize you left an important detail behind.
Why It’s a Problem:
Carrying a heavy pack during a hike or realizing you forgot your vows at the ceremony site can create unnecessary stress. Plus, not having essentials like water or snacks can make the day less enjoyable.
How to Avoid It:
Pack Essentials Only: Stick to a practical list that includes water, snacks, vow books, comfortable shoes, layers for changing weather, and a small first-aid kit.
Create a Checklist: Before the big day, make a detailed packing list to ensure you don’t forget anything important.
Use Multi-Functional Items: Choose gear that serves multiple purposes, like a jacket with plenty of pockets or a lightweight blanket that doubles as a sitting mat.
By keeping your packing simple yet intentional, you’ll be ready for anything without feeling weighed down.
Mistake #5: Ignoring Timing and Lighting
The time of day you plan your elopement can have a massive impact on the overall experience and how your photos and videos turn out. Ignoring the importance of timing and lighting is a common mistake that couples regret later.
Why It’s a Problem:
Midday lighting can be harsh and unflattering, casting strong shadows and washing out vibrant scenery. Additionally, poor timing can lead to rushed moments or missed photo opportunities.
How to Avoid It:
Plan Around Golden Hour: Schedule your ceremony during sunrise or sunset for soft, warm lighting that enhances both your photos and the atmosphere.
Build Extra Time into Your Timeline: Allow time for travel, setup, breaks, and capturing additional candid moments.
Communicate with Your Photographer: They can help you determine the best timing for your location and season.
With a well-thought-out timeline, you’ll create a more relaxed and visually stunning experience for everyone involved.
Mistake #6: Forgetting to Make the Day Personal
Elopements are all about intimacy and authenticity, yet some couples focus so much on logistics that they forget to make the day uniquely theirs. Skipping personal touches can make the experience feel less meaningful.
Why It’s a Problem:
Your elopement should reflect your relationship and story. Without personal touches, it might feel like just another event rather than a deeply emotional celebration.
How to Avoid It:
Write Personal Vows: Share your love story, dreams, and promises in your own words.
Include Favorite Activities: Whether it’s hiking, kayaking, or sharing a picnic, incorporate activities that resonate with you as a couple.
Add Meaningful Details: Bring along items that hold sentimental value, like a family heirloom or handwritten letters.
Personalizing your elopement transforms it from a ceremony into an unforgettable experience that truly represents your love.
Mistake #7: Underestimating the Importance of Comfort
When planning an elopement, couples often prioritize the aesthetics of the day—like the perfect location, attire, and decor—without considering how comfortable they’ll actually be. While your photos might look incredible, being uncomfortable can pull you out of the moment and make the experience less enjoyable.
Why It’s a Problem:
Elopements often take place in rugged outdoor locations, which can be physically demanding. Ill-fitting shoes, impractical attire, or being unprepared for unpredictable weather can turn your dream day into a struggle.
How to Avoid It:
Test Your Outfit in Advance: Before your elopement, try on your wedding attire and walk around, sit, and even climb in it. This will help you identify potential issues, like dresses that snag on rocks or suits that are too tight for movement.
Choose Functional Attire: Opt for clothing that balances style and practicality. Flowy dresses, adventure-ready suits, and sturdy hiking boots are all great choices.
Bring Layers: In Colorado, weather can change in an instant, especially at higher elevations. Pack a jacket, gloves, and even a blanket to stay warm and cozy.
Pack the Right Accessories: Bring essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and extra socks. These small items can make a big difference in your comfort level.
By prioritizing comfort, you’ll feel more present and able to fully enjoy the adventure of your elopement day.
Mistake #8: Not Enjoying the Moment
In the midst of planning and coordinating, it’s easy to get caught up in the details and forget to pause and soak in the magic of your elopement day. Many couples later regret not being more present in the moment.
Why It’s a Problem:
Elopements are meant to be intimate and meaningful, but stressing over logistics or worrying about things going perfectly can detract from the experience. Your elopement should feel like a celebration of your love, not a to-do list.
How to Avoid It:
Hire Trusted Vendors: Leave the logistics to professionals like your photographer, videographer, or planner so you can focus on each other.
Be Flexible: Things might not go exactly as planned, and that’s okay. The unexpected moments often make for the best memories.
Practice Mindfulness: Take deep breaths, hold hands, and remind each other to stay present. This day is about your connection, so let everything else fade into the background.
Remember, your elopement isn’t about achieving perfection—it’s about celebrating your love story. By letting go of small stresses, you’ll walk away with a day full of meaningful, joyful memories.
Mistake #9: Not Considering Accessibility for Guests
While many elopements are just for the couple, some choose to include close family or friends in their celebration. However, failing to consider your guests’ needs—especially if you’re eloping in a remote or adventurous location—can make the day challenging for everyone involved.
Why It’s a Problem:
A location that’s perfect for you might not be ideal for your guests. Steep hikes, high altitudes, or a lack of facilities can be difficult for older relatives, young children, or anyone with mobility limitations.
How to Avoid It:
Choose Accessible Locations: Look for places with shorter trails, level paths, or drive-up viewpoints. For example, Garden of the Gods offers stunning scenery without the need for strenuous hiking.
Plan Alternatives: If you’re set on a remote location, consider having part of the ceremony in an accessible area and then heading off alone for more adventurous photos.
Communicate Clearly: Let your guests know what to expect, including attire recommendations and any physical activity required. Providing a packing list or guide can help them prepare.
By prioritizing accessibility, you can create an experience that’s inclusive and enjoyable for everyone, without compromising the beauty or intimacy of your elopement.
Mistake #10: Skipping a Post-Elopement Celebration
Just because you’re eloping doesn’t mean you have to skip the celebration! Many couples focus so much on the ceremony that they forget to plan for what comes afterward, leaving their elopement day feeling incomplete.
Why It’s a Problem:
Elopements are intimate by nature, but that doesn’t mean they have to end after the vows. Skipping a celebration can leave you feeling like something is missing, especially if you want to mark the day as a special occasion.
How to Avoid It:
Plan a Romantic Dinner: After your ceremony, treat yourselves to a private meal at a scenic spot or a cozy restaurant. Bring champagne or a favorite bottle of wine to toast your new chapter.
Host a Post-Elopement Party: If you want to celebrate with loved ones, plan a casual gathering or reception at a later date. This allows you to share the joy of your elopement without compromising its intimacy.
Add Personal Touches: Whether it’s cutting a small cake, dancing to your favorite song, or watching the stars together, find ways to make the day feel like a true celebration.
Remember, your elopement marks the beginning of your life together, and celebrating it—however you choose—will make it all the more special.
Conclusion: Avoiding Elopement Planning Mistakes
Planning an elopement can be one of the most rewarding and intimate experiences of your life, but it requires careful thought and preparation to make it truly unforgettable. By avoiding these common mistakes—like skipping permits, overlooking weather, or forgetting personal touches—you’ll create a day that feels uniquely yours and runs as smoothly as possible.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or want expert guidance, we’d love to help. As Colorado elopement videographers and photographers, we specialize in capturing the beauty and emotion of these once-in-a-lifetime moments. Whether you’re dreaming of a mountaintop ceremony or a quiet lakeside exchange, we’re here to help you plan and document your perfect day.
Need a Colorado elopement planner, photographer and videographer? Hit us up!
We’re here to support you in your journey. Whether it’s just the two of you eloping at the top of the mountain or with your family at an accessible alpine lake, we’re here to help make it happen. To provide truly authentic experiences and the highest quality elopement films, we only accept a very limited number of intimate weddings and elopements each year.
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For that reason, we read every inquiry and respond within 24-48 hours to get started as soon as possible on making your dream skiing elopement a reality. The more information you give us here provides us with an opportunity to craft a more meaningful film, personalized experience, and overall awesome relationship with you and your partner :)