Sometimes the work that goes into planning an elopement is underestimated. You may think that all you need is your love, your rings, and your marriage certificate, but then you start to think about, what you're going to wear, if you're going to have any florals, what other type of jewelry you should adorn, and copious amounts of other things, and you may find yourself super busy or even overwhelmed. Or maybe you simply don’t have time or don’t know where to begin with what you should pack for your elopement. Fear not, because that’s where we come in! Today we are coming at you with a supplemental part two to our previous blog, “How We Pack for Elopements” (if you haven’t read it yet you totallllyyy should check it out here!)
We are a bit ~over the top~ when it comes to what we pack for elopements, but what can we say, we like to be prepared. The good thing is that since we bring almost everything imaginable to your elopement, there isn’t too much that you need to worry about. As your favvvv California elopement photographers doing this for as long as we have, we know how to make your lives easier and we’re here to make this day run as ~smoothly~ as possible for you.
So, without further adieu, here is our simple elopement packing list to help you make sure you have everything you need to have the *best* elopement ever.
While we like to think that most people won’t forget their elopement clothing, this is something that is kindddaaaa important so it’s at the top of our list. While you may already have your wedding attire, consider the environment for your elopement! You may want to bring some underlayers just to be on the safe side and comfortable.
Again, we don’t think you’ll be showing up without shoes, but it is important to consider the environment again. Depending on the location, it may be worth wearing some comfortable sneakers and changing into your fancy footwear once we get to your elopement location or even switching between them for photos. Or just keep the sneakers on! It’s your day, you do whatever you want! Another tip: if you’re opting for said fancy footwear, pls pls break them in before your elopement (yes, we have GlacierGel™packed for blisters, but we do *not* want to have to use it!).
There is not much to add here or additional tips. We beg you - please don’t forget the rings. But also don’t be surprised if Nancy fashions one from some string if they are forgotten!
Fortunately, this is the only important document you will need to bring to your elopement! Your officiant and witness will sign this after your ceremony. If there's one single thing you should pack for your elopement, this is the absolute most important one.
Here is some additional info on applying for and obtaining your marriage license, because like we said, we like to make sure we are there for you through it all - If you are eloping in California, you can get your marriage license at any County Clerk’s office. Most counties do have a place where you can apply online, but you will still have to go to the physical office to pick up the license. California’s marriage law requirements and the documents you will need to bring with you when you apply for the marriage license are as follows:
Handwritten vows are an amazing keepsake (even if you are reading traditional vows, it’s a great memento to have plus they look cute in photos). If you are writing your vows in books, do not forget to pack the books! Another option that is easy is having them on your phone (perhaps do this as a backup too in case you forget the books). Regardless, no matter what you will be reading your vows on, don't forget to bring them! If you’re looking for some vow books, we recommend supporting a small business owner - browse Etsy for some gorgeous hand-crafted vow books.
You never know when you may need to touch up your hair and makeup. It’s a great idea to pack the products you love and will be using on your wedding day so that we can do any quick fixes! You may be crying, it may be windy… sometimes hair and makeup can’t stand up against these unstoppable forces. Additional recommended toiletries: perfume, cologne, tissues, handkerchief, medications…
Don’t forget your phones in case we need to get in touch with you! If you are going to be playing music from your phone during the ceremony, pack a speaker!
Many of our couples enjoy a romantic picnic for their elopement! But if you're going to be having a picnic don’t forget the picnic essentials: blanket, cutlery, food, champagne, champagne flutes, etc. If you need some inspiration on what this picnic will look like, we recommend checking out Danielle & Jonathan’s Santa Cruz elopement.
When it comes to champagne - by practicing The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace, find that champagne cork after you pop it, and make sure to pack out the wire cage & wrapper. Also, be aware that alcohol is illegal in some national parks, and the sugar in champagne can be harmful to certain fragile environments. If you really want to pop some bubbly for a fun “spray photo” sparkling water is a great alternative and looks the same in an image!
As we said earlier, consider the environment you’re eloping in and pack some underlayers in case you get cold. It’s also a good idea to bring a rain jacket/poncho or jacket for outerwear that you can easily take on and off between photos.
Alrighty, those are the basics of what you’ll need to pack for your elopement! If there is anything you’re wondering if you should bring, do not hesitate to ask us - we are here for you.
