Eloping should feel like the most epic adventure of your life. Seriously, no one wants to be worrying about wrinkled attire or forgotten vows when you’re about to have the “holy sh*t, we’re doing this” moment of a lifetime. Whether your day is about standing on a mountaintop, wading into a crystal-clear lake, or just soaking in the beauty of this incredible connection, it’s all about YOU.
As your Lake Tahoe elopement photographer and planner, I’m here to make it as smooth as possible. Eloping doesn’t have to be chaotic or rushed. With a little prep and a few insider tips, you can walk into your day with total confidence, ready to embrace every moment. This guide has all my best advice on how to elope like a pro—stress-free, intentional, and absolutely authentic to your story.
Try to Arrive Early to Settle In
If you’re traveling for your elopement, try to arrive at least two days before if possible. This gives you time to unpack, settle in, and sort out any last-minute hiccups. Trust me, flights get delayed, things get forgotten, and surprises happen. That extra day or two will be your saving grace.
If you have invited a few guests, try arriving before they do. It will give you a chance to enjoy some alone time before your day.
Prep Wedding Attire in Advance
Iron or press your wedding attire the evening before your elopement. It’s one less thing to worry about on your big day. Oh, and don’t forget to lace up new shoes beforehand! It’s crazy how long this process can take! And if you’re already on a tight timeline, it can add a layer of frustration. Also, by doing this in advance, you can break in your shoes before you elope.
Check Out Your Elopement Spot Ahead of Your Day
I make it a priority to meet you before your ceremony (preferably at your ceremony site), and I recommend we walk through it together so you know where and how to stand, what to do with your bouquet (if applicable), the rings, and your hands during the ceremony and where to go after the ceremony is over. This isn’t to strive for perfection but rather ease and calm for the biggest moment as a couple.
Remember to Eat and Drink
Avoid the hangry! Staying hydrated is extremely important, especially at higher elevations. You will need all the energy you can get to soak in the day!
Download Music Ahead of Time
If you choose to have music, have your playlist downloaded, named, and ready to go. Service isn’t always available, and you don’t want to hassle with your device right before the ceremony. My biggest tip here? Let the sounds of nature be your playlist. If you have a small group of loved ones with you, I’ve seen them all clap and celebrate when the couple comes down the aisle. That was such a fun touch!
Write Down Your Vows
If you plan on reading personal vows, have them written down in a keepsake notebook or on a piece of paper. It’s much easier to tuck in a pocket than your phone, and it’s nicer than your screen in photos. Plus, you won’t be distracted by notifications. Here are more tips on writing vows here.
Practice Fanning Out Your Dress
After you walk down the aisle and before the ceremony starts, have a loved one (or me) take a quick moment and fan out your train, if your dress has one. It’s worth the extra effort since this is more than likely one of the top reasons you picked the dress you did. And it also makes a big difference in your photos!
Keep Things Simple and Organized
Bring a small, easy-to-carry bag with essentials like your phone, keys, deodorant, makeup, and water.
Bring Layers
I can never emphasize this enough, but bring layers! It’s really important when planning your day in the great outdoors! Consider an umbrella for rain or shade and a blanket to wrap up in or sit on.
Wear Comfy (and Practical) Shoes
If your elopement involves hiking, walking on uneven terrain, or even just standing around for a while, comfy and supportive footwear is non-negotiable. Break in those hiking boots or shoes well before your big day to avoid blisters or discomfort.
If you’re rocking a dress, you’d be surprised how cute a pair of boots can look in photos! It’s a vibe! And if you really want to swap into something fancier for certain shots, bring those heels along in your bag, but keep the practical shoes as your go-to for most of the day. Your feet (and your mood) will thank you!
Decide on Phones or No Phones
Do you want your guests to take photos or videos during your ceremony? My personal take on this is to ask them to put them away. They will be more present, and you won’t have photos with their devices in their hands. If it’s important to them/you to have their own pictures during the ceremony, my advice is to have them take them at the beginning (after you’ve made it down the aisle), snap a few, and put their devices away for the remainder of the ceremony.
You’ve invested in a professional photographer, and so much into your wedding. This one is a tip that I promise you won’t regret doing!
Hire Vendors to Keep It Easy on Your Loved Ones
Hire professionals for hair and makeup. As lovely as it is to have a friend help, it can stress them out. I’ve seen it multiple times where that person isn’t able to relax and enjoy the time with you and they are likely rushed to get themselves ready. Having a professional artist who is removed from the bigger moments really makes a difference in the presence of the day.
Plan for Traffic and Parking
As your elopement photographer and planner, I help you prepare as much as possible for parking and traffic to and from your ceremony. I also highly recommend finding accommodations close to your ceremony, so you’re not spending so much time in the car.
You could also consider hiring a private driver so you don’t have to worry about the road and can relax and enjoy the scenery. But if you choose to drive yourselves, knowing where to park before the big day will also help you feel more prepared!
Double-Check Permit Requirements
Depending on your elopement location, you may need to have an elopement permit, so make sure that’s squared away. I always help my couples navigate this process, but it’s definitely important to keep in mind!
Have a Backup Plan Ready for the Weather
Whether it’s rain, snow, or high winds, be prepared with backup options like a nearby covered location, your Airbnb, or simply bringing umbrellas and jackets. The weather can add a certain level of moodiness to your photos, but being prepared means you can embrace it without stress.
Keep the Getting-Ready Space Tidy
When it’s time for getting ready and detail photos, a tidy space makes a huge difference. It doesn’t have to be spotless, but making your bed and putting away any garbage and dirty clothes will do wonders for your space. I also recommend having all the details in one spot for easy and quick access. Maybe you should consider allocating a special box for all your special things to keep them safe! Also, definitely invest in nice hangers for your wedding attire! The plain plastic hangers don’t look very good in photos.
Keep the Day Simple
Don’t try to squeeze too many things into your elopement day. Two locations are plenty if you’ve picked my 8-hour collection. Why? So you’re not rushed! Everything takes longer on an elopement or wedding day. There is more care taken when you’re wearing your attire, and you have more to carry with you.
We focus on your safety and comfort, and that’s a lot slower than when you’re just wearing your favorite jeans and sneakers. I never want to rush you to the next photo or spot. I genuinely value allowing you to settle in, take as many deep breaths as possible, and enjoy being where you are.
Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff
If something doesn’t go exactly as planned, don’t worry about it! Eloping is all about the experience, not perfection. Sometimes, the best memories come from unexpected moments, anyway.
Amanda Kluesner Photography | Lake Tahoe Elopement Planner and Photographer
Hey, I’m Amanda, and with my experience, attention to detail, and passion for adventure, I’ll help you craft an elopement day that is truly your own. From the moment you book with me to the day you say your vows, I’ll be there to make sure every detail is handled so you can focus on what really matters!
Ready to have me by your side as your Lake Tahoe elopement photographer and planner? You can check out my portfolio here, and when you’re ready – send me a message here! I cannot wait to hear from you! And if you are planning a Lake Tahoe elopement, you will definitely enjoy this guide!
