Eloping is romantic. It's rebellious. It's intimate. But it's not always as simple as saying "I do" on a mountaintop and calling it a day. If you're dreaming of ditching the big wedding for something more intentional (or spontaneous), read this first.

These are the top 7 things couples regret not knowing before they chose to elope — and how you can avoid them.

1. Not Having a Solid Backup Plan

Spoiler alert: Nature is unpredictable. Weather shifts, tides change, and sometimes that dreamy cliffside location is closed for restoration. Couples often assume eloping means “less planning,” but the reality? You still need a game plan — and a backup one. Pro tip: Work with a photographer (hi, it me) who knows the terrain and can offer location insight, plan Bs, and local recommendations.

2. Thinking Permits Don’t Apply to Elopements

Just because you're skipping the traditional ceremony doesn’t mean you're skipping the paperwork. Many popular elopement spots require permits — and skipping them could result in fines or being turned away. It’s one of the most overlooked parts of planning.

3. Assuming Elopement Means Cheap

While eloping can save money, couples often underestimate costs: travel, lodging, attire, photography, permits, florals, and more. An elopement is still an experience — and the investment is worth it when you're curating a day that’s 100% you.

4. Not Hiring a Professional Photographer

Trust me when I say: your cousin’s iPhone won’t do your Iceland vows justice. Eloping doesn’t mean skipping documentation. If anything, it makes your photos even more important. This is your story — and you deserve to relive it.

5. Forgetting to Tell Loved Ones (or Tell Them Well)

You don’t need approval, but you might need a game plan for letting people know. Whether you share your plans in advance or surprise everyone with the announcement later, communicating with care matters.

6. Missing Out on the Planning Magic

Some couples regret not slowing down enough to feel the planning moments. Yes, eloping is simpler — but it still deserves intentional prep. Picking your location, writing vows, choosing outfits — it all gets to be magical. Make it sacred, not just simple.

7. Wishing They’d Had a Little More Help

DIY is cute until you’re deep in timezone math trying to figure out sunrise in the Dolomites. Many couples wish they’d hired someone who could walk them through the details.

That’s where I come in: I’ve curated destination elopements across the globe and help with logistics, timelines, and even packing lists.

Want to plan your dream elopement without the stress or "oops, we didn’t know that" moments? Check out all of the free info right here on my blog! OR . . .

Grab my BEST resources to get started:

✨ The Ultimate Elopement Guide — A must-read for every couple ditching tradition.

✨ The Dream Destination Guide — 90 pages of bucket list spots across the globe.

✨ The Elopement Workbook + Planner — Because organized brides are hot brides. 🥂

Or skip the overthinking and check out the elopement packages I offer 

— I’ll help you bring your dream day to life, without the guesswork. PS - even if you decide not to hire me as your photographer, you can still book a 60 minute elopement strategy session! I offer this as a no-strings-attached stand alone service for anyone who just needs questions and little direction before actually booking the full elopement.

xo,

Rachel

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