Choosing to do an intimate elopement instead of a big wedding means that you can make this day EXACTLY what the two of you want to do. It’s a chance to break free from traditional wedding expectations and create a day that is uniquely yours. Everyone’s ideal wedding day looks different and if for the two of you, that means doing something adventurous or spontaneous, go for it! So on this blog, I’m sharing 25 fun & unique things to do on your elopement day to make it that much more special!

First Off, What Does it Mean to Elope?

The best thing about eloping is that it means whatever you want it to mean. Often times people elope because they don’t want to worry about the stress and opinions of others that comes with planning a big wedding. And while I do love big wedding days, elopements are just equally as special because you are doing exactly what feels right for the two of you. Elopements allow you the freedom to be spontaneous, cross something off your bucket list, or have a chill and intimate day. Whatever it is, IT’S YOUR DAY! Do something that represents YOUR love! 

Fun & Unique Activities to Do on Your Elopement Day

Okay so now that we have established that you can do whatever it is you want to do on your wedding day, I just want to share some unique activities to do on your elopement day. As an elopement photographer, I have captured so many different unique elopement days, so I thought I would share some things my clients have done and some that they haven’t done yet that I think would be fun. 

1. Get Tattoos

What better way to remember your elopement day than to get tattoos? I mean this is such a spontaneous and unique way to celebrate your love. You can get fun matching tattoos or each get a tattoo that you feel represents your relationship. Whatever you choose to get, it will be a memory that is quite literally with you forever!

2. Bring Your Dogs

Dogs are just as much a part of your family as anyone else. So, if you’re planning on eloping in a dog-friendly location then hell yeah, bring your dogs. Beach elopements, when couples bring their dogs, are always a good time!

3. Go on a Hiking Adventure

If you and your partner love spending time outdoors, then a hiking adventure is a great option. With hiking elopements, you often get the best views so it’s well worth it when you reach your destination and have your intimate ceremony. 

4. Spend the Weekend Camping

If you guys are down to explore somewhere new like a state or national park, then camping is a great option. You get to enjoy your elopement during the day and then come back to your campsite to sit by the fire and enjoy some s’mores. 

5. Build a Bonfire

If you’re eloping on the beach or at a campsite, there’s nothing better than cozying up to a bonfire, chatting about your amazing day, and enjoying some tasty treats. 

6. Kayaking or Paddle Boarding

If you are planning on eloping near a lake/river or the ocean, especially in the summer months, then kayaking or paddle boarding is such a fun activity. You can either start your elopement day off with this at sunrise or end the day with it at sunset. 

7. Go Cliff Jumping

Okay, hear me out… I think this would be the most epic trash-the-dress moment at the end of your elopement day. Obviously, you would get all of your beautiful portraits and photos beforehand and then at the end of the day, enjoy some cliff jumping. Then you can swim and let me tell you photos in the water wearing a dress can be soooo cool!!

8. Go on an Offroading Adventure

If you live in an area or are visiting an area that has off-roading then this is such a fun activity if you’re down to get a little dirty on your elopement day. 

9. Skiing or Snowboarding

Eloping somewhere cold and snowy? No problem! Why not enjoy a day on the slopes after your intimate sunrise elopement ceremony? Don’t know how to ski or snowboard? Then what better time to learn than together on your special day!

10. Sky Diving

Okay so this one might sound a little crazy but how epic would it be to tell your kids that you went skydiving on your wedding day? Obviously, this isn’t for everyone, but if you and your partner are adrenaline junkies, then this could make your elopement day super epic. 

11. Yoga on the Beach

If you’re wanting to start your elopement day off with good vibes and calmness, then doing some yoga at a peaceful location like the beach can help you shake off any nerves you have and enjoy a calm morning together!

12. Hot Air Balloon Vows

Exchange your vows high up in the sky as you float in a hot air balloon, surrounded by breathtaking views. 

13. Watch the Sunrise or Sunset

If you have the time on your elopement day to enjoy the sunrise or sunset with just the two of you, I highly encourage it. Your elopement day can go by so fast so taking some time to really be in the moment is super important.

14. Wine and Painting

If you and your partner are more of the laid-back type, then head to the beach or somewhere with a beautiful view, bring a bottle of wine, and enjoy some painting together. 

15. Ride Your Motorcycle or Moped

If you own a motorcycle or moped, then taking a nice ride at the end of your elopement could be super special. And getting some photos of you guys on the bike would be super badass! 

16. Set up a Hammock in a Peaceful and Private Area

If you own one of those super simple hammocks that you just attach to trees, then setting that up in a super private and romantic spot could be the perfect way to end your elopement day by watching the sunset.

17. Make a Fun Meal Together

Whether you rent a cute Airbnb or want to enjoy cooking a meal together at home, this is a super fun and intimate experience on your elopement day. Even if you aren’t the best cooks, I think that makes the experience that much more fun and exciting. 

18. Go to a Winery or Brewery

Have your elopement ceremony at a beautiful vineyard and then celebrate by getting wine drunk with the love of your life. Or head to a brewery if beer is more your thing! 

19. Hire a Private Chef

Treat yourselves to a private chef who will prepare a gourmet meal just for the two of you back at your romantic Airbnb. Better yet, have someone style the table so that you can also have your photographer capture some photos as well. 

20. Find a Natural Hot Spring

Natural hot springs are so beautiful and such a unique experience. If you and your partner are down for a hiking elopement to a hot spring, then this is a super fun and memorable way to celebrate. Here is a list of some of the best hot springs in the US. 

21. Visit a National Park

There are so many epic locations in National Parks for an elopement so if you’re up for a hiking elopement, then consider visiting a National Park that neither of you have been to before. You can spend the weekend there and rent out an Airbnb or camp. 

22. Camp Under the Stars

Find a more private and secluded location with minimal light pollution so you can camp and enjoy stargazing at night. 

23. Take a Private Helicopter Tour

Take a helicopter ride to a secluded spot for your ceremony, adding an element of grandeur to your elopement.

24. Private Boat Ceremony

Have your ceremony on a private boat or yacht, sailing into the horizon as a married couple at sunset. 

25. Bury a Time Capsule

Bury a time capsule containing mementos and letters from your elopement day to open and cherish on a future anniversary.

Remember, your elopement day is about celebrating your love in a way that feels true to your heart. Whether you choose an adventurous elopement, a romantic ceremony under the stars, or a destination that holds meaning for both of you, the key is to make it uniquely yours. Embrace the freedom to create an unforgettable experience that will be etched in your memories for a lifetime.

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