When you hear “elopement,” you probably picture a quick courthouse ceremony or a spontaneous “I do” in Vegas, done and dusted in under an hour. But here’s the truth: eloping isn’t about rushing. It’s about intention. And it absolutely can be an all-day experience—just as meaningful, emotional, and unforgettable as any traditional wedding.
So let’s take a quick look at what an elopement day with me looks like.
The beginning
I like to start the day with the “getting ready.” Even if you’re eloping, you still have to get ready-that means getting dressed, hair and makeup and prepping for the day. In this time I like to include details photos of all of the sentimental things you have chosen to include (jewelry, the dress, the shoes, perfume, cuff links, vow books, etc). These items deserve to be memorialized as a part of your day!
For the actual getting ready portion, I usually offer two options depending on whether you want a first look or not. If you’re planning to get ready together – we will work with that. Some photos of you helping each other to zip the dress, tie the ties, etc. And if you’re getting ready separately, I will spend a little time with each of you to capture these before moments.
First Looks
If you’re choosing to have a first look, this is where the magic begins. This moment is entirely yours—I won’t interfere or direct anything. Depending on your timeline, I’ll give you a heads-up beforehand (something like, “You’ve got 30 minutes” or “Take a full hour—this time is yours”). I’ll never rush it. You let me know when you’re ready to move on.
Time to Say I Do!
Now comes the part where you vow to love each other for the rest of time. This is another moment that’s wholly yours (and the officiants). You can take as long or as little time here as possible (even if you want to continue after the officiant has signed out).
Time for Your Close Up
Now that the hard part is over, we can snag some photos and have some fun! Depending on what we have planned for your day, we will take photos in your I-Do spot and move on to the next location.
Now you might be thinking – but how does that take all day?
Travel time is part of your elopement story. Whether we’re driving from your Airbnb or hotel to the mountain, the beach, or wherever your vows take you, expect about 30 minutes to an hour in transit, depending on the locations. I also encourage you to fill your day with intentional, joy-filled moments—not just the ceremony. Think: morning coffees in your pajamas, a scenic hike to your vow spot, a cozy dinner with jazz playing in the background, or even saying ‘I do’ on a sailboat with the ocean around you (yes, jumping in is totally an option!).
As adults, we rarely get days that are entirely our own—where everything revolves around what we want. Your elopement day is one of those rare gifts. So soak it in. Slow down. Be fully present. And savor every intentional moment in a way that’s true to you.
If you’re ready to book your elopement day with me – you know where to find me (jennilaurenphoto@gmail.com if you don’t).
