It’s true, the possibilities for your elopement are endless. From multi-day excursions to a simple afternoon ceremony, it can be difficult to know where to begin. 

Allow us to make the path a bit clearer with an elopement checklist of vendors to ensure that your experience is extraordinary. 

An elopement checklist for your vendors

• Officiant
• Elopement photographer
• Elopement videographer
• Florist
• Hair and makeup artist
• Caterer or private chef
• Adventure activities or guides

What vendors do you need for an elopement wedding?: Why they matter

Compared to traditional weddings that require a lengthy list of vendors and services, elopements typically need just a few of the necessary vendors to create a beautiful result. The best part? You can pick and choose which vendors you care about. We recommend splurging on the things you’re most excited about, then only book what you need beyond that. 

That being said, below is a list of the top vendors to include in your elopement checklist.

Officiant

Most states require an ordained officiant to legally marry you. This makes an officiant one of the most important vendors on your checklist. Depending on the vision for your elopement, this could be a friend, family member, or a locally ordained minister. If you dream of a particularly adventurous elopement, make sure that your officiant is also up for the trek. 

Although, in some states, you can self-solemnize your marriage without an officiant or any witnesses— including Colorado, Illinois, and Pennsylvania. If you want to lean into the “just-us” feel of an elopement, check the legal requirements in your state to see if self-solemnization is an option. 

Elopement photographer + videographer

For any marriage ceremony, photographers and videographers play an important role in documenting the moments and emotions of this milestone. However, choosing a photography and videography team that specializes in elopements is essential to preserving the unique atmosphere of intimate ceremonies. 

Oftentimes, elopement photographers do much more than simply capture your ceremony. From planning the timeline to scouting locations to even recommending local activities and accommodations — elopement photographers can craft an atmosphere for your elopement beyond what you dreamed of. 

For each of our couples, not only do we create a timeline and provide location options, but we curate a completely customized location guide for your elopement. From permits to dining, to accommodations and vendors — we make sure you have everything you need to have a captivating experience. 

Elopement flowers

Florals are a thoughtful touch for weddings and elopements alike. Depending on the setting for your ceremony, a local florist who specializes in elopements might be the best fit. In many national parks, bouquets, boutonnieres, and floral decor are limited to local plant species. Hiring a florist familiar with the local landscape and varieties will prevent harm to the environment and ensure that your florals complement the feeling of your elopement. 

Hair + makeup artist

Although this vendor won’t be essential to the framework of your elopement, the celebration of your marriage is the best reason we can think of to treat yourself to a bit of pampering. Not only will you have one less thing to worry about on the morning of your elopement, but these artists specialize in long-lasting styles. With a hair and makeup artist, your look will last all day (and look incredible in every photo). 

Caterer or private chef

Instead of a grand reception with stretching tables, we recommend hiring a local private chef to prepare a meal for you and your new spouse. Whether you personalize the menu to your dream meal, or let the chef surprise you with a sampling of the local flavors — a candlelit meal accompanied by champagne is an intimate, yet indulgent way to celebrate your elopement. 

Adventure guides or activities

Reserving a special excursion or activity is one of the more special ways to add excitement to your elopement. These adventures could range in anything from helicopter tours across Alaskan glaciers, to multi-day treks through your favorite national park, or a hot air balloon ride at sunset. Finding the right vendor to accommodate your elopement festivities can make the experience that much more special. You can find more wedding elopement ideas on our blog post where we lay out everything from short and sweet, to adventurous and adrenaline-pumping.  

Need help completing this elopement checklist?

Our specialty as elopement photographers and videographers is ensuring that every couple has an experience that fulfills (or even exceeds) their dreams. If you need direction for an unforgettable elopement, we can help you navigate the course – just send us a note.