The beautiful thing about choosing to elope is that you get to design your day around what matters most to you. There’s no template, no pressure, and no one-size-fits-all checklist. You get to splurge on the things you care about and skip the rest.
While there’s no rulebook for what vendors you need, I’ve worked with hundreds of couples and am happy to share what I’ve seen work beautifully—and what you may want to consider as you dream up your day.
My Best Advice?
Figure out what’s most important to you and what will genuinely add to your experience.
If sharing a gorgeous meal in a tucked-away spot with a private chef sounds like your kind of magic—do it. If your dream day ends with grabbing a pint at your favorite local brewery and a hot dog in hand—go for it. There’s no wrong way to do this.
And if you’re inviting guests, or planning something with more moving pieces, you might consider bringing in extra vendor support to keep things relaxed and flowing smoothly—for both you and your people.
Common Elopement Vendors to Consider:
Photographer
Obviously, I’m a little biased here—but photography is often the #1 vendor couples invest in, and for good reason. Your day will fly by, and having timeless photos lets you relive every moment for decades to come. Whether you're with me for four hours or from sunrise to sunset, I’ll be there capturing your story as it unfolds.
Florist
Even the simplest bouquet adds such a thoughtful touch to your day. I’m a sucker for a wild arrangement tucked into a backpack or carried across the coastline. You can go as simple or as styled as you'd like—from handheld florals to arches, flower crowns, or ceremony setups.
Hair & Makeup Artist
Want to feel a little extra pampered? A great HMUA can help you feel confident and radiant, even if you're getting ready in a mountain cabin at 4 AM. I've even hiked with artists who tag along for touch-ups throughout the day—yes, it’s a thing!
Officiant
Depending on where you’re eloping, you might need someone to officially marry you (unless you're self-solemnizing in a state like Colorado or getting legally married before/after your trip). Whether it’s a friend who got ordained or a local officiant, this role can be as personal or as simple as you’d like.
Event Designer
Want a styled picnic setup? A beautiful ceremony space in the middle of nowhere? Event designers can create magic, whether you’re renting pieces or hiring someone to style the whole scene. It’s an amazing way to elevate the feel of your elopement without overcomplicating the day.
Planner
While I help all of my couples with timelines and logistics, some choose to hire an elopement planner—especially if they're bringing guests or dreaming up a more elaborate experience. It’s totally optional, but great if you want someone else to handle the moving parts.
Caterer or Private Chef
Just because you’re not hosting a big reception doesn’t mean you shouldn’t eat well! Whether it's an intimate dinner under the stars, a local tasting menu, or a chef-cooked picnic, your meal can be a beautiful part of your day—not just a detail.
What vendors do I need for my elopement?
Only the ones that matter to you. Most couples hire a photographer, florist, and maybe an officiant or HMUA—but there’s no rulebook here. You get to choose what’s worth investing in and what can be left out.
When should I book my vendors?
Here’s a general guide I’ve found helpful:
Photographer: 12–15 months out
Florist: 9–12 months
Officiant: 9–12 months
Planner/Coordinator: 7–14 months
Hair & Makeup: 3–6 months
Caterer: 2–4 months
The earlier you reach out, the better your chances of securing your dream team—especially for peak season dates.
Do vendors require a deposit?
Yes—most require a signed contract and a deposit to hold your date. Deposits can range from a flat fee to 10–50% of the total cost, depending on the vendor.
Do I really need vendors at all?
Not necessarily! If you love the idea of DIY-ing your day—go for it. I’ve photographed couples who made their own bouquets from farmers' market blooms, picked up snacks from Publix, or had a friend handle hair and makeup. Your day should reflect you, not a Pinterest board.
Whether you choose a full team of vendors or keep things simple and personal, the best thing you can do is build a day that feels like your version of magic.
If you’re still unsure where to start or which vendors are worth the splurge, I’m always here to help guide you through it all. Let’s make your dream day a reality—your way.
And if you want to deep dive into some epic locations to consider for your day, check out Tips for choosing a dreamy location!
Here are some of my favorite vendors:
Hair and Makeup: Brushes and Braids
Florals: Petal and Fern
Bridal Gowns: Wildflower Bridal
Luxury Picnics: Picnic Pop Up
I see that excitement!
Ready to start dreaming up your big day?