Elopements
Planning your elopement is an exciting journey, and choosing the right elopement vendors can make all the difference in making your day seamless and unforgettable. A common question couples ask is, “How far out do I need to book vendors for my elopement?” The answer can vary, but planning ahead is key—especially if your elopement is set in a sought-after location or during peak season. In this blog post, I’ll share my timing recommendations for hiring your elopement vendors.
When to Book Wedding Photographer and Videographer
Your elopement photographer and videographer are essential in capturing the raw, intimate moments of your day. To ensure you get your top choice, it’s wise to book 9-12 months in advance. This is particularly true for elopements in popular destinations like Ireland or Colorado, where top vendors often get booked well over a year in advance. If you’re planning an international elopement or a destination wedding, securing your photographer early ensures you find someone familiar with the location who can provide valuable insights for your day.
When to book a Venue (if applicable)
Elopements can be as simple as a ceremony on a remote mountain peak or as structured as a private venue event. If you’re opting for a venue, try to book 6-12 months ahead, especially if you’re choosing a popular spot during the high season. For more spontaneous or low-season elopements, you might have more flexibility.
Officiant
Booking your officiant about 6-9 months in advance is a good rule of thumb. This allows time to personalize your ceremony and discuss any special elements you want to include. In some cases, officiants who are specialized in adventure elopements or outdoor settings can also provide valuable advice on timing and location.
Tip: Some photographers and videographers also offer officiant services, which would be helpful for those trying to keep things small and simple.
Florist, Hair, and Makeup Artists
These vendors are essential to your overall look and feel, especially if you’re envisioning a specific style or aesthetic for your day. Book them 6-9 months in advance to ensure they’re available and can create a look that complements your vision. For remote locations or international destinations, check that these vendors have experience traveling or working in those areas.
Other Elopement Vendors (catering, musicians, etc.)
Depending on your elopement’s structure, you may want to include a small celebration afterward with catered food or live music. Booking these services 4-6 months in advance is typically enough, but if your elopement is during a peak season or at a location with limited vendors, it’s wise to secure these early.
Tips for Booking Last-Minute Elopement Vendors
While planning ahead is ideal, life happens, and sometimes elopements come together on shorter notice. If you’re booking vendors within a 3-6 month window, flexibility is your greatest asset. You may need to adjust your timeline or consider alternative vendors if your top choices are booked. Off-peak seasons or less conventional locations can often provide more availability with less lead time.
Why Advance Booking Matters for Elopement Vendors
Elopements, though smaller in scale, require just as much attention to detail as a traditional wedding. By booking your vendors early, you secure your peace of mind and ensure that your elopement day flows smoothly. High-demand locations like the scenic coasts of Ireland or the majestic Rockies in Colorado see a surge in bookings well ahead of time. Planning early allows you to work with professionals who know these areas, helping you with location scouting, local weather tips, and logistics.
Planning an elopement should be as stress-free as possible. Booking your vendors 6-12 months in advance helps you build a trusted team who will bring your dream day to life. From your elopement photographer and officiant to florists and hairstylists, each vendor plays a pivotal role in creating an unforgettable experience. By securing them early, you’ll have more time to focus on the unique, personal touches that will make your elopement truly yours.
Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate mountaintop elopement in Colorado or a romantic coastal celebration in Ireland, the key is simple: plan ahead, book early, and savor every moment of your special day.