This guide walks you through what an elopement truly is, how it differs from a traditional wedding, and what to consider when planning an intentional elopement day.
Hey! I’m Kristin, an elopement photographer and planner who helps couples plan stress-free, unforgettable days.
available in yosemite, lake tahoe, and northern california
what is an elopement
Hey! I’m Kristin, an elopement photographer and planner who helps couples plan stress-free, unforgettable days.
available in yosemite, Lake tahoe, and northern california
This guide walks you through what an elopement truly is, how it differs from a traditional wedding, and what to consider when planning an intentional elopement day.
what is an elopement
An elopement is an intentional, intimate way to get married — one that centers the experience around the two of you.
Not a guest list, a packed timeline, or outside expectations.
Today, elopements aren’t about running away. They’re about slowing down, being present, and creating a wedding day that actually feels like you.
Your elopement can be just the two of you or include a small group of your closest people. It can happen somewhere scenic and outdoors, or somewhere simple and easy to access.
What matters most isn’t the location or the size — it’s how the day actually feels.
If you’re already thinking about planning your day, you can read my full guide on how to elope in California.
What Is an Elopement?
And yes, elopements are still real weddings.
You’re legally married, vows and all.
What an Elopement Is
(and Isn’t)
- A more personal way to get married.
- Focused on the experience, not the production.
- Typically just the couple or small guest count.
- Flexible, relaxed, and centered around how you want the day to feel (like choosing your own elopement activities)
- Often outdoors and scenic, but not required
What an Elopement Is
What an Elopement Isn’t
Are Elopements Real Weddings?
Common Questions About Eloping
Absolutely. Eloping doesn’t mean excluding the people you care about. Many couples choose to include immediate family or a few close friends, while still keeping the day calm and meaningful. If you’re planning something with more people, check out my guide on small wedding ideas.
Most elopements include just the couple or a small group of close loved ones. Guest counts are typically kept intimate — often around 0–15 people — especially for outdoor locations and public land.
Yes. An elopement is a fully legal marriage, just like any other wedding. You’ll obtain a marriage license and have an officiant present (or self-solemnize where allowed), just without the pressure of a large event.
Is an elopement legal?
How many guests can an elopement have?
Can we still include family or friends?
Do elopements still feel like a “real” wedding?
Very much so. In fact, many couples say their elopement feels more meaningful because it’s focused on the marriage itself — not a packed timeline or outside expectations.
Do we need permits?
Some locations may require permits, especially for outdoor ceremonies. The process is usually much simpler than couples expect — I walk through exactly how it works in my guide on how to elope in California. If you already have a location in mind, I also break it down for places like Yosemite and Lake Tahoe.
Eloping with Kristin Smith Photography
A Simple, Intentional Way to Plan an Elopement That Actually Feels Like You
These steps from my elopement guide are here to give you clarity, direction, and confidence, even if you don’t have everything figured out yet.
what is an elopement
Some couples keep things completely private. Others include a small group of loved ones. Some want an easy-access location with incredible views, while others are up for a short hike.
Your elopement might include:
- Just the two of you
- A small group of family or friends
- An easy-access scenic location
- A short hike to a quieter spot
- A sunrise or sunset ceremony
There’s no “right” way to elope, the goal is to create a day that feels intentional, meaningful, and true to you.
There’s No One Way to Elope
Is an Elopement Right for You?
- You want a wedding experience that actually feels like you
- You value experiences over traditions
- You don’t want to host a large crowd
- You want time and space to be present with each other
- You’d rather focus on meaning than a packed timeline
If planning a big wedding feels overwhelming or like it’s drifting away from what you actually want — that’s often a sign eloping could be a better fit.
Read: How to Elope in California (Step-by-Step Guide)
Ready to Plan Your Elopement?
Or if you’d rather have someone guide you through the entire process…
If you’re here, you’re probably not looking for a big, traditional wedding day.
You want a wedding day that actually feels like you and you don’t have to figure that out on your own.
From locations and logistics to a timeline that flows, everything is guided so your day feels calm, easy, and fully present.
Because this isn’t just about photos, it’s about creating a day that feels like it was made just for you.
Elopements across California, especially Lake Tahoe and Yosemite, are what this is all about.
Hey, I'm Kristin!
"We really wanted someone that was going to make our pictures fun while taking them and that’s exactly what we got."
- Hailie & Justin
We can’t wait to come back and do it again!
Thank you SO MUCH for everything! 10000/10 experience!!!"
- tony and lauren eloped in lake tahoe
"Love love love !!!!!
Seriously the best time ever!
We can’t wait to come back and do it again! Thank you SO MUCH for everything! 10000/10 experience!!!"
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