Elopements are no longer a cheap alternative to having a wedding. Elopements can be luxurious, tailored experiences that prioritize where and when a couple chooses to start their lives together. Whether you’re drawn to stunning landscapes, unique architecture, or a sentimental location, a luxury elopement requires thoughtful planning to ensure a seamless and memorable experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to plan a luxury destination elopement that is unique, memorable, and stress-free.
Cover photo by Krista K Photos
1. Choose the Perfect Destination
Deciding on a location is the first step in how to plan your luxury destination elopement. Consider the following:
- New vs. Sentimental: Do you want a place that holds past meaning for your relationship, or are you seeking a fresh and inspiring setting?
- Aesthetic Appeal: Look for destinations with unique architecture, stunning interior design, and natural beauty to complement your vision.
- Season & Timing: The time of year will impact your choice. Research the best destinations based on the season and your ideal wedding date.
Pro Tip: Check out websites like Travel & Leisure, Condé Nast, Small Luxury Hotels, and The Wed for destination inspiration.
2. Create a Budget & Organize Details
A well-planned budget ensures you can invest in the elements that matter most. Use a Google Sheet or Notion to track your expenses, including the following:
- Venue/hotel accommodations
- Flights and transportation
- Photography and Videography
- Wedding attire and styling
- Ceremony decor and officiant fees
- Honeymoon & travels after
Pro Tip: Before booking a hotel, reach out to confirm if you can hold a private ceremony on-site. Ask to be connected with the property manager or concierge for additional assistance.
3. Book a Photography & Videography Team
Your elopement will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so capturing it beautifully is a must so your friends and family can feel as though they were there with you.
- Fly in a professional – If you have a preferred photographer, pay to bring them with you. Expect to pay for their travel fees.
- Hire locally – Research destination-based photographers who know the area and can capture stunning shots that highlight the surroundings.
Check out my Portfolio to inquire for your destination elopement!
4. Plan the Ceremony Logistics
If getting legally married in another country is complicated or not allowed in your home country, consider:
- Booking a court date in your home country before traveling. Invite your loved ones so they can witness you legally get married before jetting off to your destination. Invite your photographer to capture this moment to tell the whole story of your elopement!
- Holding a symbolic ceremony at your destination. You can still choose to celebrate this date as your official wedding anniversary! Who really checks the license anyways? 😉
- Writing a custom ceremony script and hiring an officiant (some hotels have staff on site who can assist).
5. Find Your Dream Attire to Match
Once you know your location and venue style, it’s time to shop for your wedding dress! Think about the climate and venue style, along with portability (remember – you’ll have to travel with your gown!).
- Select a dress and tuxedo that complement the setting.
- Consider travel-friendly fabrics if you’re flying.
- Schedule fittings early to allow for alterations.
6. Create a Loose Timeline
Flexibility is key for a stress-free elopement, but having a rough plan to share with your media team and officiant ensures everything flows smoothly.
- Map out key moments: Getting ready (together or separately), the ceremony time, portraits at sunset, and the dinner celebration.
- Factor in sunset timing for golden-hour photos.
- Leave room for spontaneity and relaxation.
7. Plan a Celebration with Loved Ones
Just because you’re eloping doesn’t mean you can’t still celebrate and include family and friends. Finding ways to include them will help alleviate any tension or hard feelings about not being there with you on the elopement day.
- Host a pre-trip send-off party or an intimate post-elopement reception.
- Share your wedding photos and videos with loved ones to include them in the experience.
8. Travel Smart & Pack Thoughtfully
- Carry your dress and tux as a carry-on to avoid lost luggage issues.
- Pack a dual-voltage travel steamer, this is my favorite!
- Pack travel essentials, including weather-appropriate accessories.
- Confirm all travel documents and reservations before departure.
Final Thoughts
A luxury destination elopement is all about creating a wedding experience that is meaningful, stylish, and stress-free. With the right planning and a touch of adventure, your elopement will be an unforgettable celebration of love. Happy planning!
