Everything you need to know to find your perfect destination.


When it comes to planning your elopement, one of the most exciting—and sometimes overwhelming—decisions is choosing the right location. You’re not tied to a traditional venue or timeline, which means the entire world is your oyster. From cliffside coastlines in Italy to foggy Scottish moors or the colorful desert landscapes of Utah, your elopement location sets the tone for your day.


But with so many stunning options, where do you even begin?


Whether you're dreaming of a quiet ceremony by an alpine lake or an all-day hiking adventure through epic landscapes, this guide will help you navigate every step of choosing your dream location.

Newlyweds celebrating on boat with colorful smoke bombs against coastal cityscape in Italy.

1. Start With What Feels Like You


Before diving into maps or Pinterest boards, take a step back and think about how you want your day to feel. Ask yourselves:


  • Do we want somewhere quiet and intimate, or full of big, dramatic views?
  • Do we love warm weather, or do we dream of moody skies and misty air?
  • Are we more into hiking and exploring, or relaxing with good food and a view?
  • Do we want a place we’ve always dreamed of visiting, or somewhere that already feels like home?


This is your permission to dream big. The best part about eloping is that there are no rules. Your wedding doesn’t have to happen in a place people expect—it just needs to feel right for you.

A couple in wedding attire poses among Joshua trees in a desert landscape at sunset.
A couple walks hand in hand across rocky terrain with mountains in the background in isle of skye Scotland.
A couple stands in shallow ocean water beneath white cliffside buildings in Italy .

2. Choose a Landscape That Lights You Up


Your environment is the backdrop for your entire experience, and it's okay to be a little picky! Think about what kind of terrain or scenery makes you feel alive.


Some Options to Consider:


Mountains:

Snow-capped peaks, wildflower meadows, alpine lakes—perfect if you love hiking, fresh air, and feeling small in the best way. (Think: Dolomites, the Swiss Alps, Colorado, or the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina.)


Coastlines:

Ocean views, dramatic cliffs, salt in your hair. If you’re the type that thrives near the water, coastal locations like the Amalfi Coast or Isle of Skye offer soul-soothing vibes with that wow-factor backdrop.


Deserts:

Red rock arches, glowing golden hour light, and wide open spaces. Ideal for adventurous souls who want something bold and different. (Utah’s national parks are full of options!)


Forests:

Lush, green, enchanted—perfect for a cozy, magical vibe. Places like the Pacific Northwest, the Scottish Highlands, or the Appalachian Mountains feel like stepping into a storybook.


Countryside/Villages:

For a slower pace and timeless charm, you might fall in love with the rolling hills of Tuscany, lavender fields in Provence, or stone cottages in the Isle of Skye. These are perfect for couples who want to explore culture, food, and history.



A couple poses on white stone steps with cacti and architectural details in Italy .

3. Think About the Activities You Love


Elopements aren’t just about saying vows—they’re about crafting a day (or even a week!) that feels like you. Consider locations that align with the kind of experiences you love to share together.


  • Hikers at heart? Choose a destination with accessible trails, epic overlooks, or even multi-day backpacking options.


  • Foodies? Eloping in a region known for amazing cuisine (Italy, France, coastal Spain) means you can celebrate with a private chef, wine tastings, or a dreamy dinner under the stars.


  • Water lovers? Think paddleboarding at a quiet lake, a beach picnic, or even a sailboat ride after your ceremony.


  • Culture + history buffs? Castles in Scotland, cobblestone streets in Europe, or ancient ruins could be the perfect touch.


  • Relaxation seekers? Opt for a luxurious countryside villa, hot spring soak, or slow morning on a porch overlooking the mountains.


Your elopement should feel like the best vacation you’ve ever had!


A couple shares an intimate moment in a bohemian-style tent with decorative elements.
A couple walks through coastal sand dunes holding hands at sunset.

4. Consider Accessibility and Logistics


This part may not be as romantic, but it’s so important. Choosing the right location also means thinking through the practical stuff.


A few things to ask:


  • How far are we willing to travel? Do you want to stay stateside, hop across the ocean, or keep it local?


  • Do we need a passport or visa? Make sure your paperwork is in order, especially for international elopements.


  • Will guests be joining us? If yes, you’ll want to consider how easy it is to get to the ceremony site, and if there are accommodations nearby.


  • What’s the weather like? Know the best seasons for each location. (Spoiler: Amalfi is gorgeous in the spring/fall. Scotland shines in the summer, and Switzerland is dreamy year-round.)


  • Do we need permits? Many public lands and national parks require permits for weddings or photography—your photographer (hi, it’s me!) can help you navigate this.
Romantic waterfall wedding photo shoot with couple in formal attire.
Wedding invitation suite with dried flowers and ribbons arranged artistically on black background.
A couple embraces on a tropical beach with palm trees in the background in Hawaii.
A couple shares an intimate moment against a dramatic cliff backdrop in windy conditions in isle of skye Scotland.

5. Seasonality Matters


Every destination has a sweet spot. Here's a quick rundown of best times to visit a few popular elopement locations:


  • Isle of Skye, Scotland: May–September (for mild weather and lush landscapes)


  • Amalfi Coast, Italy: April–June or September–October (less crowded, still warm)


  • Swiss Alps: June–September for hiking / December–March for a snowy vibe


  • Utah & Southwest US: Spring and Fall (summer gets hot)


  • Asheville, NC: Spring for blooms / Fall for epic foliage


Choosing the right season can impact everything from weather to availability to the kind of photos we can capture.


6. Make it Personal


Sometimes the best location is one that’s tied to a memory. Maybe it’s where you took your first trip together, where you’ve always dreamed of visiting, or even just a place that feels like it belongs in your story.


This is your chance to create something totally your own. Want to say your vows on a mountaintop in the Highlands? Let’s do it. Prefer a coastal ceremony followed by dinner at a cliffside restaurant in Positano? I’ll meet you there.


Two people walking together along a scenic coastline at sunset.

7. Work With Someone Who’s Been There


A huge part of what I offer as your photographer is location guidance. I’ve scouted trails in the Highlands, wandered quiet corners of Amalfi, soaked in the charm of little villages in the English countryside and hiked through the desert in Joshua Tree. I know what’s possible, what’s worth the effort, and how to make it happen in a way that feels effortless for you.


I help with location scouting, permits, timeline planning, vendor recs—you name it. You don’t have to figure this out alone.


Ready to Find Your Dream Location?

Here’s your next step: Close your eyes, picture the day you say “I do,” and ask yourself—what do you see? Mountains? Ocean? A cozy village? Then let’s talk about how to bring that vision to life.


Your dream location is out there. Let’s go find it together.

Ready dream up your own?