First off! Congrats! On deciding to throw the traditional wedding day in the trash, that eloping is what is going to set your soul on fire, and that it is the best option for YOU and your partner! Because you decided this option, now you get to have an incredibly unique wedding experience that’s a reflection for the both of you. And, that my friend, is pretty badass!! There are so many options when it comes to eloping and I know it can be overwhelming at times because of the freedom it gives you. So, I decided to create a list of tips of how to choose your elopement location from, muah, a California Elopement Photographer! Ready? Let’s get to it!
Think About YOUR Experience
Don’t forget that you have decided to elope for a reason: you want to prioritize yourself and your partner first before anyone else. Because of that, it’s important to stay authentic to who you two actually are and what you actually want out of this magical day. For example, if you are looking for a fun, stress-free elopement, then choosing an elopement location that is polar opposite of that is not aligning with what you really want. Remember, that there are tons of different options for your elopement location, so, don’t feel pressured to pick one just because everyone else does. And if you need recommendations on where to elope at – I have you covered. Give me what you are looking for and I can guide you in the right direction to make sure your day feels exactly like the two of you.
Do You Want To Have A Multi-Location Elopement?
Can’t decide on one location to have your elopement at and have fallen in love with multiple spots? That’s a-okay!! And, we can do it! Don’t forget that this day is FOR YOU and can be exactly what you want it to be. Going to more than one location is a great way to have variety in your elopement. If adventuring is your cup of tea and aligns with your idea of a perfect day – then doing a multi-location elopement is a great option and shouldn’t be backed away from! The best part about doing a multi-location elopement is that you can spread it out over two days instead of just one. Because, why the heck not!!
Think About Your Back-Up Plan!
As a California Elopement Photographer, I know all the elopement locations that are going to be the best for you and your partner. It is always important to have a second favorite location in mind just in case your first choice doesn’t work out! This could happen due to weather conditions or unexpected road closures or anything else that would make it impossible to have your elopement at. Making sure to have a flexible and go-with-the-flow attitude towards your day is going to help release the pressure and more fun!
Remember The Permits At Your Elopement Location
A lot of locations that are on public lands like National Parks or State Parks require permits to have a ceremony or have a photographer/videographer document it. So, before committing to one location be sure to do all the research and contact the head of the park to ensure that your permits are received, handled and processed accurately! If you have no idea where to go, or need a helping hand in the permit process I have lots of knowledge on exactly what steps to take for tons of the National Parks or State Parks in California. If you are handling the process on your own some important questions to ask the office is: how much time would be needed to secure the permit, if there are any restrictions, if your photographer/videographer needs a separate permit and what the overall costs are to acquire!
Plan To Leave No Trace For Your Elopement Location
This is so important! Leave No Trace is a set of ethics that everyone who uses the outdoors for their elopement should be sure to practice to protect the environment. It is made up of 7 principles. This is to help us make the best decisions to leave the least amount of impact possible on the outdoors:
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
- Dispose of Waste Properly
- Leave What You Find
- Minimize Campfire Impacts
- Respect Wildfire
- Be Considerate of other Visitors
If you are hoping to use and abide by the Leave No Trace principles, then you should make sure that you do your research beforehand to be prepared. For more details on Leave No Trace check it out HERE!
California Elopement Photographer | Michelle Angeli
Figuring out your elopement location can be easy and fun with me by your side! Curious or have questions about what your California elopement could look like? Or want to chat more about if an elopement is a good fit for you and your partner? I am your gal! Inquire with me through my contact form! And, state that you are on the fence about doing an elopement. And, I can help figure it all out with you and see if it’s the best option! I can’t wait to be a part of your day! However it may be whether it be in Northern California or beyond!
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