How Guests Can Best Prepare For Your Elopement

A Guide for Elopement Guests and Couples Who Want a Low-Stress Wedding Experience

Elopements are all about creating a meaningful and stress-free wedding day. As a couple, you can prepare everything perfectly, but if your guests aren't informed, it can throw off the experience. This guide is designed to help you communicate important details with your guests so that everyone has a smooth, enjoyable, and memorable experience.

For Wedding Couples

It’s important to give your guests all the information they need well in advance. You can do this through a wedding website, a shared document (Google Docs or Canva), a text-friendly graphic, or even a group chat or Facebook group. Whatever method you choose, be sure to cover these essential details:

• Travel Information – Share how far the location is from the nearest airport, whether guests will need to rent a vehicle, if shuttles are available, and any accommodation details.

• Exact Locations & Parking – A custom Google Map link is a great way to provide directions, parking instructions, and meeting points.

• Park or Venue Information – Include entry fees, parking fees, timed entry requirements, and any park regulations.

• Trail & Terrain Details – Let guests know if they’ll be walking on paved paths or rough terrain, crossing streams, scrambling over rocks, or if a 4WD vehicle is required.

• Timeline for the Day – Provide a clear schedule so everyone knows where to be and when. If some guests tend to run late, give them extra buffer time.

• What’s Provided – Clarify whether meals, drinks, or other essentials will be available so guests can come prepared.

• Point of Contact – Assign a well-informed person (not you!) to handle guest questions on the wedding day to keep things stress-free.

For Elopement Guests

You’ve been invited because you are among the couple’s most important people. They’ve chosen to elope for a relaxed and fun experience, so your support and preparation will help make their day truly special. Here’s how you can contribute to a stress-free and enjoyable celebration:

1. Check the Weather Forecast

Elopement locations can have unpredictable weather. Check the forecast and pack accordingly—layered clothing for temperature changes, a windproof and waterproof jacket, and accessories like hats and gloves if necessary. Keep in mind that the ceremony location may have different weather conditions than where you’re staying.

2. Dress for the Environment

Wear attire suited for the location. A windproof, fleece-lined rain jacket is essential for cool weather. Lightweight, light-colored clothing works best for the beach. In desert locations, long-sleeved layers can help with sun protection.

Most importantly—wear appropriate shoes! Forget about dress shoes or heels. Choose comfortable, sturdy shoes with good traction, and expect them to get dirty or wet.

3. Stay Hydrated & Bring Snacks

Always carry a water bottle and pack snacks, especially if the ceremony or activities will last several hours. Even if the couple provides food, it’s best to come prepared in case of delays.

4. Plan Your Travel Wisely

Arrive at the destination early—preferably two days before if flying, or the night before if driving. Flights can be delayed, long drives can be tiring, and high-altitude locations require time to acclimate. Altitude sickness is real and can cause headaches, nausea, and fatigue, so plan accordingly.

5. Pack the Essentials

Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent (if needed), and any medications. A small backpack is handy for carrying these items.

If you bring an umbrella, opt for clear or black ones—they look much better in photos than bright colors or patterns.

6. Follow Leave No Trace Principles

Nature is the venue, so we must protect it. Follow Leave No Trace guidelines by packing out all trash, respecting wildlife, and staying on designated trails. This ensures future couples can elope in these beautiful locations without restrictions.

7. Know the Plan

Review the wedding schedule and locations in advance so you’re not asking for details on the day. Download or screenshot directions since cell service may be unreliable.

8. Plan for Transportation

Confirm if you need to rent a car, ride with other guests, or use a shuttle. Some locations require 4WD vehicles or tire chains in snowy months, and some national parks have limited parking.

Money-saving tip: Renting a car from an off-airport location can be cheaper than renting directly from the airport.

9. Be Flexible

Weather and logistics can change quickly. The ceremony time or location might shift to keep everyone comfortable. Being adaptable ensures a stress-free day for the couple.

10. Be Present & Enjoy the Moment

The couple wants you to be fully engaged in their special day. Please keep your phone away during the ceremony so you can truly experience the moment—and so I can capture genuine reactions and smiles.

About Wedding Photos

• A sneak peek of the wedding photos will be available shortly after the wedding (usually the next day).

• The couple will receive an online gallery where you can download images and order prints (with their permission to share on social media).

• If you’d like specific family or group photos, let me know! We’ll take time after the ceremony to capture these moments.

Final Thoughts

We’re so excited for you to be part of this incredible adventure! Your preparation and support will help create a smooth, unforgettable experience for the couple. I’m looking forward to capturing genuine moments of love, joy, and connection.

Thank you in advance for being a positive part of their wedding day—I can’t wait to see you there!

See You Soon!

Hey there! I'm Carly - The owner of Wild North Weddings and a photographer specializing in documenting weddings and elopements across the U.S. If you love the idea of a wedding with adventure, excitement, and a little romance sprinkled in, let's talk about how I can help you create and capture the wedding day of your dreams!