If you’ve decided to elope (or you’re pretty close), this guide walks you through exactly how to plan your day, without it feeling overwhelming.

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

How to Elope:
A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Hey! I’m Kristin, an elopement photographer and planner who helps couples plan stress-free, unforgettable days.

available in Lake tahoe, yosemite, and northern california

If you’ve decided to elope (or you’re pretty close), this guide walks you through how to plan your day, without it feeling overwhelming.

How to Elope: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide (updated for 2026)

If you’re here, you’re probably already leaning toward eloping — now it’s just about figuring out how to actually make it happen.

Eloping doesn’t mean winging it. It just means planning differently.

Instead of building a day around expectations, you’re building it around what actually matters to you, how you want it to feel, where you want to be, and who you want there (if anyone).

The good news? You don’t have to have everything figured out right now.

Below is a simple, step-by-step breakdown to help you plan an elopement that feels intentional, easy, and actually enjoyable.

Instead of starting with a venue and a guest list, elopements start with experience and intention — and build from there.

At its core, planning an elopement comes down to a few simple steps:

Choose where you want to get married
Make it legal
Decide how you want your day to feel
Build a timeline that gives you space to breathe
Hire vendors who understand elopements

You don’t have to figure all of this out at once, or alone.

Below, I’ll walk you through exactly how to elope, step by step — so you can create a day that feels meaningful, relaxed, and completely your own.

So… How Do You Elope?

Step 1: Decide Where You Want to Elope

The first step isn’t paperwork or timelines, it’s deciding where you want to get married.

Start with how you want it to feel — quiet, adventurous, romantic, relaxed, or a mix.

Then choose a location that matches — mountains, lake views, forest, desert, coastline, or city. You don’t need the exact spot picked yet.

If you’re still figuring that out, here are some of the best places to elope in California.

Most couples start broad, then narrow things down once they know the vibe, season, and guest count.

Thinking about eloping in California? Read my full California elopement guide here.

Where Should You Elope?

If you're dreaming of crystal-clear water, mountain views, and endless outdoor adventure, Lake Tahoe is one of the most popular places to elope in California. From sandy beaches and granite overlooks to quiet forest trails, Tahoe offers incredible scenery in every season.

Lake Tahoe

Yosemite National Park is perfect for couples who want dramatic mountain scenery and some of the most iconic views in California. Towering granite cliffs, waterfalls, alpine meadows, and breathtaking overlooks create an unforgettable backdrop for an intimate wedding or elopement.

Yosemite National Park

The California Redwoods offer a completely different elopement experience. Surrounded by towering trees and peaceful forest trails, it's the perfect choice for couples who want a quiet, nature-focused celebration that feels private and secluded.

Redwoods

San Francisco is ideal for couples looking for a mix of city charm, historic architecture, and coastal views. Whether you're planning a ceremony at San Francisco City Hall or exploring the city's scenic overlooks afterward, it's a unique location that combines urban elegance with California beauty.

San Francisco

Not sure which location is right for you?
Explore my guide to the best places to elope in California.

Step 2: Make It Legal

Eloping still comes with a few legal steps to take care of.

At minimum, you’ll need a marriage license and someone legally able to marry you.

Requirements vary by state, especially if you’re traveling for your elopement. I break this down step-by-step in my how to elope in California guide. Some couples choose to get legally married in their destination, while others handle the paperwork at home and keep their ceremony symbolic.

Both options are completely valid — it just comes down to what feels easiest for you.

Step 3: Create Your Elopement Experience

This is where your elopement really starts to come to life.

Instead of following a set timeline or traditions, you get to build a day around what actually matters to you, how it feels, what you do, and who you share it with.

That might look like private vows, a short hike, exploring multiple locations, a picnic or toast, reading letters, bringing your dog, or including a small group of loved ones.

If you need ideas, here are some elopement day ideas to help you start planning.

Elopements don’t have to be “just a ceremony," they can be a full, meaningful experience.

Step 4: Choose the Best Time of Day

The time of day you choose shapes how your elopement feels — from the lighting to the privacy to the overall energy of the day.

Some couples love sunrise for its quiet, peaceful start, while others are drawn to sunset and blue hour for the warmth and glow.

There’s no right or wrong choice — just what feels right for you.

The best timing is the one that aligns with your vision and gives you space to slow down, be present, and actually enjoy the experience.

Step 5: Create a Thoughtful Elopement Day Timeline

A well-planned elopement timeline is about creating space — not packing the day full.

Giving yourself breathing room lets you slow down, stay present, and enjoy each part of the day as it unfolds.

This is where things like travel time, getting ready, ceremony timing, logistics, and backup plans all come into play.

A flexible timeline means that even if something shifts, the day still feels calm and intentional.

Step 6: Hire Vendors Who Specialize in Elopements

Elopements come with logistics that traditional weddings don’t.

Permits, trail access, weather, travel between locations, and flexible timelines all require a different approach.

Working with vendors who understand elopements means fewer surprises and a day that flows naturally — so you can stay focused on the experience, not the details.

Step 7: Show Up, Be Present, and Get Married

Once everything is planned, your only job is to be there — fully.

Your elopement day isn’t about perfection or performance. It’s about being present and starting your marriage in a way that feels true to you.

When everything else is taken care of, you get the space to slow down, take it in, and actually enjoy getting married.

Frequently Asked Questions About How to Elope

Sometimes — especially for outdoor locations like national or state parks. Each location is a little different, but the process is usually much simpler than most couples expect.

You absolutely can. Many couples elope first, then host a dinner, reception, or celebration later on their own terms.

Absolutely. While elopements are typically 20 people or less, many couples include a few close family or friends. Whether it’s just the two of you or a small group, the focus stays on keeping the day personal, relaxed, and true to you.

Couples with 25+ guests are considered a “micro wedding” and may need a different approach.

Yes. Elopements are legally binding weddings, just like traditional ones. You’ll still need a marriage license and follow the legal requirements for where you’re getting married — the difference is how you choose to experience the day.

Is an elopement a real wedding?

Can we bring guests to our elopement?

Do we need permits to elope?

How far in advance should we plan our elopement?

It depends. Some elopements come together in a few weeks, while others are planned a year or more in advance. If you have a specific location or date in mind, earlier planning helps — but last-minute elopements are absolutely possible.

What if the weather doesn’t cooperate?

Weather is part of the experience — especially outdoors. Having a backup plan (or two) makes all the difference, whether that means adjusting locations, shifting the timeline, or embracing the mood that comes with it.

Can we still do traditional things like a first dance or cake?

Yes. Eloping doesn’t mean giving up meaningful moments — it just means choosing the ones that actually matter to you.

Do we have to hike to elope?

Not at all. Some couples love hiking, others prefer easy-access locations with incredible views. Your elopement should match your comfort level — not push you into something that doesn’t feel right.

Is eloping actually less stressful than a big wedding?

For most couples, yes. Fewer logistics, fewer expectations, and more time to focus on each other tends to create a much calmer, more intentional experience.

What if we want to celebrate later with friends and family?

Not at all. Most couples come in with a general idea, and everything gets built from there — locations, timeline, and overall vision.

Do we need to have a location picked before reaching out?

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.

how to elope

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!!!"

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

Your wedding day should feel intentional, relaxed, and genuinely fun.

As a California elopement photographer and planner, your experience goes far beyond just showing up for photos.

From choosing the perfect location to creating a timeline that flows naturally, every part of the day is designed to feel calm, easy, and meaningful.

Elopements across California are thoughtfully planned so you can focus on what matters most, being present with each other and enjoying every moment.

Elope with
Kristin Smith Photography

Kristin is an elopement photographer who helps couples plan and photograph intentional, stress-free elopements in epic locations.

From location guidance and timelines to documenting the day itself, I’m here to make the entire experience feel relaxed, meaningful, and easy.