Choosing an elopement location

Today, I’m going to be talking all about choosing an elopement location and yes – even give you tips on how to travel with your wedding dress (which is something that is kind of a big deal). To be honest, I was kind of hesitant to approach such a giant topic in one little blog post but bear with me while I try to do it justice. I have broken this down into some pretty easy tips and a couple of things you might not have thought about when choosing your elopement location. Then, when it comes to traveling with your dress, I’m going to spill the tea on how to travel – whether you are getting on a plane or you’re just hiking a little to get to your ideal ceremony spot.

As an Arizona wedding photographer, specializing in desert elopements, I usually work with my couples to find the perfect location. They often don’t come to me already knowing which spot they want to exchange vows in! There are a lot of hidden gems out here, which is why it is so important to choose a photographer that specializes in desert elopements (if that’s the kind of wedding you have your eye on). If you’re planning a wedding for 2021 or 2022, make sure to get in touch here because I would LOVE to help you plan out your day.

First steps to choosing an elopement location

Now, without further ado, let’s talk about choosing an elopement location! When you’re choosing a location first, think about what’s most important to you. For most of my couples, you want to find a place that means you can have epic views as you say your vows, but you also need to consider things like making sure you have easy access to it, how long it will take to hike to get there, and also never forget to consider SAFETY. No dreamy elopement location is worth getting hurt over!

When’s the best time to elope?

Although there is no “best time” to elope, you should consider which season is going to give you the weather and sunlight time you want! We are lucky enough in Arizona that we can have desert elopements pretty much year-round. But knowing what season you plan to elope is important when you’re making your timeline! I talk more about making your elopement timeline here but for now, just know the sun sets at different times of the day making the days longer depending on the season.

Lastly, when it comes to choosing an elopement location, make sure you’re creating an experience where you have fun. Truly – we can have fun no matter what wedding location you choose. But I want to throw this out because it is THE MOST important factor when choosing an elopement location,

How to Travel with your Wedding Dress

Next, let’s talk about how to travel with your wedding dress. If you’re packing your dress on a plane, I highly recommend purchasing a garment bag and keeping it with you as a carry-on. Your dress is not the kind of thing that you’re going to want to put in checked luggage. Most airlines are fairly accommodating, but don’t be afraid to call ahead and make sure that there’s going to be room in an overhead compartment or a front closet. Ask about their policies for traveling with a wedding dress – most airlines are prepared for that kind of thing!

Hiking with your wedding dress

The best elopement locations tend to be off the beaten path so traveling with your wedding dress no longer just means getting on a plane. When you are hiking to a remote location, consider using a trash bag or a garment bag to carry your dress and essentials. A lot of times, even though my couples are willing to hike a little to get to their ideal wedding elopement location – they don’t want to wear their dress the entire time. Ideally, your dress won’t get dirty until AFTER the ceremony. I got you!

Choosing an Arizona Elopement Location

You’ve found your dream elopement location and are going to be in Arizona? I am your girl. Elopements truly have my heart. I love making the day about just the two of you and I also happen to know a few hidden gems around Arizona. I’m happy to share the details. Contact me here and we can confirm availability for your ideal wedding date! It’s also okay if you don’t have a date yet – elopements can be more flexible. Let’s have a conversation!