Ready to Ditch the Big Wedding?
Here’s Your Ultimate How-To Elopement Guide
So you’ve decided to ditch the big wedding and elope, and you're SO excited because it feels so much more you. But where on earth do you start? Feeling overwhelmed by the logistics, rules, and all the endless options? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. Take a deep breath, grab a coffee, and keep reading. By the end of this guide, you'll not only be packed with all the info you need to run off and marry your lover but also be itching to take me along to capture the magic. So let’s dive in!
In New Hampshire, eloping and tying the knot is a breeze! Just like any other wedding, you’ll need a marriage license and an approved officiant to make things official. Other than that, your elopement can be as unique and special as you want it to be.
Let’s kick things off with the marriage license:
Getting a Marriage License in New Hampshire: To snag your marriage license, head over to any Town Clerk’s office in New Hampshire—residents and non-residents are both welcome and it doesn't take long at all to get your license. Even if you're coming from out of town, you can snag it the day before (on a weekday) and have it for your big day!
Here’s what you'll need to bring with you:
- A document proving your name, age, and date of birth (like a driver’s license, non-driver ID, or passport).
- Your full name.
- Your date of birth.
- State of birth.
- Current address.
- Social Security Number (if applicable).
- Your race and ancestry.
- Your years of education.
- Certified record of the end of your last marriage (if applicable).
- Your father’s full name and state of birth.
- Your mother’s full maiden name and state of birth.
- A $50 fee (in cash or by credit card).
Important Note: Requirements can change, so it’s a good idea to check out the latest requirements for the most up-to-date information. *Please note the link is for the city of Concord, check the specific city you are getting married in*
Pro Tip: During the busy wedding season (June-October), Town Clerks can get pretty swamped. To avoid any last-minute stress, try to get your license sorted well in advance (but no more than 90 days). Don’t hesitate to give them a call to see if there’s anything you can do to speed up the process!
Do you need an officiant?
When planning your elopement, one important question is who can officiate your ceremony. Navigating the rules can seem tricky, but I’ve done all the research for you. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you find the perfect officiant for your special day.
For Officiants Who Are New Hampshire Residents:
- Justice of the Peace: Any Justice of the Peace commissioned in New Hampshire can officiate your ceremony.
- Ordained Ministers: Any ordained minister of the gospel who is in good standing and resides in New Hampshire can also officiate.
- Friends: If you’d like a friend to marry you, they’ll need to get ordained in New Hampshire. They can easily do this online. Once ordained, they’ll need to apply for a license through the NH Secretary of State Website.
For Officiants Who Are Not New Hampshire Residents:
- Out-of-State Ministers: Ministers who live outside New Hampshire but have a pastoral charge in the state can officiate if the ceremony takes place within their parish.
- Non-Ordained Clergy: Members of the clergy who aren’t formally ordained but are engaged in their religious body’s services, and who reside in New Hampshire, can officiate once they’re licensed by the Secretary of State.
- Out-of-State Friends: If your friend is from out of state and wants to officiate, they’ll need to get ordained in their home state. Afterward, they’ll apply for the license in New Hampshire through the NH Secretary of State Website.
Choosing the right officiant can enhance your elopement experience, especially if you’re going for an adventurous setting. If you’re looking for a local touch without any extra hassle, I’m here to help!
Alright, let’s get those creative juices flowing! Here are some fun and important questions to kickstart your planning:
1. What’s Your Dream Backdrop?
Imagine the perfect setting for your elopement. Is it a stunning lake with mountains in the background, a cozy cabin nestled in the woods, or a picturesque waterfall? Choose a scenery that truly excites you and sets the tone for your special day.
2. What’s on the Menu?
It’s easy to overlook meal plans in the midst of all the excitement, but don’t forget this key detail! Do you want a private brunch with family at an Airbnb, a relaxed meal at a local restaurant, or a luxurious experience with a private chef? I can help you find the perfect spot to enjoy your post-elopement feast.
3. Fill the Day with Fun
Just because you're eloping doesn't mean you can’t spend the whole day celebrating! Without the constraints of a big wedding, you have the freedom to plan exciting activities. Whether it’s horseback riding, a private boat tour, kayaking, a helicopter ride, ATV adventures, or snowmobiling, let’s pack your day with unforgettable experiences you’ll be talking about for years to come.
Because I love ya, I've made a checklist for you to follow
This is Your
Process:
1. Choose Your Location
Alright, lovebirds, this is where the fun begins! New Hampshire is a treasure trove of gorgeous spots perfect for your elopement. From the breathtaking views of the Lakes Region to the majestic mountains, you’ve got so many options to find that perfect backdrop for your vows.
Think about what kind of vibe speaks to you. Are you dreaming of a dramatic mountain view, a serene lakeside scene, or a cozy, rustic barn?
Take some time to explore your options. Look for places that match your style, your love story, and the kind of atmosphere you want to create. And don’t forget to check out the logistics—some spots might need permits or have specific rules. But don’t worry, I’m here to help you navigate it all!
2. Set a Date and Secure Your Permits.
Alright, now that you’ve got your dreamy location picked out, it’s time to nail down the date and tackle the permits. I know this might sound like a bit of a buzzkill, but trust me, it’s all part of making your elopement go off without a hitch.
First things first: choose your date. Think about the season and weather you want, and how it fits with your dream location. Keep in mind that popular spots might book up quickly, so it’s a good idea to be flexible with your date if you have a specific place in mind.
Next, let’s talk permits. Some locations, especially those in national parks or scenic spots, require permits for ceremonies. It’s a bit of paperwork, but it’s totally worth it to make sure everything is legit. Reach out to the venue or local authorities to find out if you need one and what the application process looks like.
Pro tip: If you’re eloping at a spot that requires a permit, get it sorted as early as possible. This will give you peace of mind and ensure you’re all set for your big day. And don’t worry, I’m here to help with any of the nitty-gritty details if you need it!
So, grab your calendar and get ready to mark that special date. Once you’ve got everything lined up, you’ll be one step closer to saying “I do” in the perfect spot!
3. Find a Local Officiant or Justice of PEace.
Now, let’s talk officiants—your secret ingredient for a ceremony that feels truly you. Finding the right person to marry you is like finding the perfect pair of shoes: they need to fit just right and make you feel amazing.
Start by looking for someone local who knows the ins and outs of New Hampshire’s marriage laws. A local officiant will not only be familiar with the legal requirements but also with the best spots and vibes that match your elopement dreams. Plus, they’ll have a genuine connection to the area, which can add a special touch to your ceremony.
What to look for: Seek out someone who resonates with your style and values. Do you want a traditional ceremony, or are you looking for something a bit more personalized? An officiant who understands your vision will help craft vows and a ceremony that’s as unique as your love story.
Pro tip: Don’t hesitate to have a chat or even meet with a few officiants before making your decision. You want someone who makes you feel comfortable and excited about your ceremony. Think of it as a little date—you’re just figuring out if they’re the right match for your big day.
Once you’ve found your officiant, you’ll be one step closer to making your elopement dreams a reality. And remember, I’m here to help with any recommendations or advice you might need along the way!
This is Your
Process:
4. Plan Your Attire + Details
Alright, lovebirds, let’s talk about what you’ll be rocking on your big day. Your attire is a big part of what will make your elopement photos pop, and finding the right outfits can be one of the most exciting parts of the planning process!
For the couple: Whether you’re going for classic elegance, boho chic, or something totally offbeat, make sure your outfits and any decorations reflect your personalities and the vibe of your elopement. Think about the location and weather—if you’re eloping in the mountains, you might want to layer up or choose fabrics that won’t freeze you out. For a lakeside ceremony, breathable and light fabrics can keep you cool and comfy.
For the location: Consider how your attire will look against your chosen backdrop. You want to complement the setting, not clash with it. I can help you brainstorm ideas that will make the most of your location and ensure you look stunning in your photos.
Pro tip: Choose outfits that make you feel amazing and comfortable. You’ll be moving, hugging, and possibly dancing, so you want to be able to enjoy every moment without any wardrobe malfunctions. Also, don’t forget to think about accessories—these little touches can add personality and flair to your look! (For example - jewelry, flowers, save the dates, perfume bottles, etc)
Remember, I’m here to help with any styling tips or recommendations to make sure you look and feel fabulous. From finding the perfect dress or suit to accessorizing, let’s make sure your attire matches the magic of your elopement!
5. Arrange Photography
Alright, let’s get down to the fun stuff—capturing your epic elopement! I’m Alexia, your go-to elopement photographer in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. If you’re looking for someone who will turn your intimate day into a cinematic adventure, look no further. I’m all about blending into your day like a friend with a camera, capturing those real, raw moments that make your love story uniquely yours.
Why choose me? I’m not just any photographer—I specialize in creating stunning, storytelling images that will have you feeling like the stars of your own movie. My documentary style means I’m there to capture the candid, heartfelt moments that make your elopement unforgettable. Plus, I’m a local, so I know all the best hidden gems and breathtaking spots around the Lakes Region. Whether you’re dreaming of a serene lakeside ceremony or a dramatic mountain top adventure, I’ve got you covered.
What’s the deal if you’re into super adventurous hikes? While I’m all about capturing magical moments in beautiful settings, if your elopement dreams involve scaling cliffs or other extreme adventures that might push my comfort zone, no worries! I’ve got an amazing network of local photographers who are more than up for the challenge and can help you capture those wild, epic moments.
Pro tip: Let’s have a chat to discuss your vision and how we can make your day picture-perfect. From planning the perfect shots to navigating the logistics, I’m here to ensure your elopement photos are as spectacular as your love story.
Ready to make some magic? Reach out and let’s start planning how to capture your incredible elopement day!
6. Plan Your Itinerary
Planning your itinerary might sound like a daunting task, but it’s actually the key to making sure your elopement runs smoothly and you get to soak in every magical moment.
Start with the basics: What time will your ceremony be? Think about the best lighting for photos, and consider whether you want a sunrise or sunset ceremony. Both offer their own unique charm and can make your photos truly spectacular.
Include key moments: Plan out when and where you'll do things like your first look, exchanging vows, and any other special rituals you want to include. If you’re planning to have a post-ceremony celebration or a special activity (like a hike or a cozy picnic), make sure to allocate time for those as well.
Consider travel time: If your elopement involves moving between different locations, make sure to factor in travel time. Nothing kills the vibe faster than rushing from one spot to another. I can help you figure out the best sequence of events to make the most of your time and locations.
Pro tip: Booking me as your photographer means you get one-on-one assistance with timeline planning and activity coordination. I’ll work with you to ensure everything runs seamlessly, so you can focus on enjoying the day. Plus, I’ll be there to capture all the beautiful moments, so you can fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Planning your itinerary doesn’t have to be stressful. With a bit of organization and some personalized help from yours truly, your elopement will be smooth, seamless, and full of joy. Let’s make sure your day unfolds perfectly and captures all the magic you’ve dreamed of!
This is Your
Process:
7. Finalize the Details
You’re almost there! Now it’s time to tie up all the loose ends and make sure every detail is in place so you can enjoy your elopement without a hitch. This is where all your hard work pays off and everything starts to come together.
Double-check your permits and bookings: Confirm that all your permits, if needed, are in order and that your venue, officiant, and any other bookings are all set. It’s a good idea to touch base with everyone involved to make sure there are no last-minute surprises.
Review your itinerary: Take one final look at your planned schedule to ensure everything flows smoothly. This is your chance to make any last-minute adjustments and ensure that your day is perfectly tailored to your vision.
Pack smart: Make a checklist of everything you’ll need for the day, from your attire to any special items you want to include in your ceremony. Don’t forget essentials like your marriage license and any personal items that add a special touch.
Pro tip: As part of booking me as your photographer, I offer a final consultation to go over all the details. We’ll review your itinerary, make sure we’ve got all the shots you want, and address any last-minute questions or concerns. This way, you can relax knowing everything is perfectly planned.
With all the details finalized, you’ll be ready to enjoy every moment of your elopement. I’m here to ensure your day goes off without a hitch and to capture every magical moment. Let’s make sure your elopement is as perfect as you’ve dreamed!
8. Enjoy The Moment
You did it! All the planning, the details, the stress—it’s all been worth it because your elopement day has arrived. Now, it’s time to soak it all in and enjoy every single moment of your special day.
Embrace the experience: Take a deep breath and let go of any remaining stress. This day is all about celebrating your love and committing to each other in a way that feels true to you. Allow yourselves to be fully present and savor each moment.
Celebrate the small things: From the first time you see each other in your elopement attire to the little laughs and intimate moments you share throughout the day, these are the memories you’ll cherish forever. Don’t be afraid to let your emotions flow and really experience the magic of the day.
Trust the process: I’ll be there to capture all the beautiful, candid moments that make your day unique. Focus on each other and let me handle the details of capturing the memories. Whether it's a spontaneous laugh or a quiet, emotional moment, I’m dedicated to preserving every bit of your special day.
Pro tip: If you need a moment to yourselves or a quick break, don’t hesitate to take it. This is your day, and it’s important to stay relaxed and connected with each other. And remember, I’m just a text or call away if you need anything!
So, as you step into this new chapter of your lives, enjoy every second. Your elopement is a celebration of your love, and it’s meant to be as joyful and magical as you’ve dreamed. I can’t wait to capture the moments that will become your cherished memories for years to come. Here’s to love, laughter, and a lifetime of happiness!
START PLANNING, START DREAMING—YOUR PERFECT ELOPEMENT AWAITS!
And there you have it! By diving into these key details, you're well on your way to crafting an elopement that’s uniquely yours. Remember, this day is all about celebrating your love in a way that feels authentic and special to both of you. Whether you're dreaming of a serene mountaintop, a cozy cabin, or a thrilling adventure, the most important thing is to make it your own.
If you need any help along the way—whether it’s finding the perfect spot, planning your timeline, or capturing those magical moments—I’m here for you. I can't wait to help you create and capture the elopement of your dreams.
So take a deep breath, get excited, and start planning! Your adventure awaits, and I’m thrilled to be a part of it.
