My number one question I hear when a couple is browsing my elopement packages is, “What are we going to do for x number of hours with our photographer? A full day elopement sounds like a long time!” Fair enough, friend! It may seem like a daunting amount of time with no plan, but I’m here to break it down! You’re not alone, most people come to me saying they only need a couple of hours of coverage, but here’s the deal…
Hands down, the most incredible elopements that I have had the honor to capture in last year lasted at least ONE FULL DAY. Sometimes TWO DAYS! There is simply so much freedom to do whatever you want, wherever you want when planning your elopement. I totally understand that all of this freedom can be a bit overwhelming! When the “rules” or “perfect formula” have gone out the window, then how do you plan your perfect day?
Once you book me, I’m all yours! I’m not just your photographer. I’m your elopement planner, your location scout, your go-to-gal for all questions and helpful tips about your wedding day. I actually have a full elopement planning guide slash magazine slash inspiration hub that I give to each one of my couples upon booking so they can prepare themselves on what to expect, and start brainstorming what they’d like to experience on their wedding day. It is super handy and such a fun way to get to know me, my experience, and learn more about what you’d like getting those ideas flowing!
Let me walk you through a pretend destination elopement somewhere romantic and remote in Oregon. I’ll say it again, your elopement can look and feel however you like. This is just a starting point. A choose your own adventure type of day. Literally!
You’ll wake up in your Airbnb, or at your hotel or campsite. Maybe your closest friends or siblings are there, or maybe just yourself and your partner. Your hair and makeup artist arrives to help you get ready. This is when I make my appearance! We’re on for a full day hang out starting with mimosas and a light brunch – yes, please! Or maybe we’re vacuum sealing some fruit and snacks for our full day hike – either way, I’m there! You and your partner getting ready together with your soon-to-be spouse zipping up your dress. Your elopement can be as traditional or as non-traditional as you’d like it to be. Yes I’m around, yes I have my camera in hand, no you don’t just pose around awkwardly. I’m a fly on the wall!
I am such a sucker for first looks. I absolutely love them!! If you’re not sure if you’d like to have one, stop right now, and jump over to this blog post where I’ll definitely convince why you need to say yes to a first look. This is such a great way to spend a little extra time with your fiancé and to have a few quiet moments before you possibly see the rest of your guests.
Your first look is also an awesome opportunity to switch up locations throughout the day. I’ll find the sweetest spot for you to announce your love for one another, trust me! Sometimes it makes more sense to have a first look before we get to the final destination.
Another location, another activity. Whether you are saying ‘I do’ with your small circle, or it’s just the three of us… this is undoubtedly one of my favorite parts of your elopement. As your photographer, I’ll be lurking around documenting your vows or love letters to one another! Fun fact, I am legally ordained and can sign that super important piece of paper for you!
Another bonus to having more time, is taking time to get to and from locations, to have a quick snack, pop a bottle of champagne, or take a nap! I am always for scheduling in a little quiet time mid-day to rest and refresh before we roll out to find the perfect location for golden hour or wander along a beach. Sunset photos followed by a bonfire and s’mores with a night cap? ALWAYS A GOOD IDEA.
With a full day elopement, there is just SO much room for activities! (Yes, that’s a Step-brothers reference, haha.)
Do you want to helicopter up to the top of a mountain? Or celebrate your nuptials with an elaborate picnic on the beach? Will you be celebrating with your family and friends first, and then adventuring with me a little later? Maybe hosting a bonfire with s’mores is your thing. Maybe you have a private chef back at your Airbnb who is preparing dinner for the two of you. If you’re craving late night chicken nuggets and cheese fries – I probably am too, and yes, we’re going to that greasy diner down the street.
Anything is possible! Yes, you can still have a first dance wherever you want! I’ll bring the music, you bring the good vibes! Cut your cake under a veil of evergreens or sample that sugar on the hood of your rental car.
Even better… Plan a little unexpected surprise for your partner —whether it be sentimental or just fun— this can an spice up your day in the best way! I love when couples plan something their partner doesn’t know about. It’s both enjoyable to plan and see unfold on the day-of.
Because why not? Incorporate a few extra outfit changes where you like. Bring your favourite casual outfit. Let’s go hiking in your wedding dress and hiking boots. Its your day, your fashion show, and I’m so ready for all of it!
PLUS you guessed it! This is another great opportunity to have some extra photos to choose from for your family and friends back home. Maybe you have two wedding dresses you’d like to make use of, or you’re already thinking of your Christmas card – Why not?!
Okay, okay, I think you’re picking up what I’m putting down. So yes, I’m around and shooting my camera all day. Does this mean 8 hours of stiff, staged portraits? Absolutely not. It just opens up so many doors and allows me to capture your full story.
Your elopement day is all about you. THIS IS YOUR DAY. Make it special. Let’s plan whatever you like, WHEREVER YOU LIKE, and see all of your dreams come true. I’m open to breaking down your elopement photography package over a full day, and the following afternoon, or hiking into the backcountry for a week-long adventure, or adding on an adventure session for just the two of you after your intimate wedding with your family. — Let’s plan your magical day and we can brainstorm some super fun times together!