Adventure Elopement in the Netherlands
How to elope?
You’re engaged!! It’s time to start planning your dream wedding but traditional weddings with the same standard set up is just so not “you”? Now you’re considering eloping but how do you actually elope?
WHAT IS AN ELOPEMENT? An elopement is an untraditional intimate wedding with just you two or up to 30 guests where you can do whatever you want on your wedding day.
Many couples don’t understand what an elopement is or don’t want to leave anyone out on their wedding day. That’s totally fine, just don’t let the expectations of others crush your most important day because your wedding day should be about you two!
Follow these 5 steps to Elope:
Start by creating a mood board
Decide where to elope
Pick your elopement vendors
Announce your elopement
Have your dream elopement!
You’re in luck because planning an elopement is easier than planning a traditional wedding. Just follow these 5 simple steps and you’re ready to go!
Step 1. Start by creating a mood board
The first thing to decide is what vibe you want your elopement. Are you drawn to that summer feeling or rather want those cosy winter vibes? Do you want to do your vows indoors or outdoors? Do you want to elope with just the two of you or is there room for some guests?
What colors do you absolutely love? Do you like a vintage, boho or adventurous style? Is there a specific activity that you really like to do on your wedding day? Like hiking, road-trip, kayaking, skiing, playing music, watch the sunset or having a picnic together in a field.
Step 2. Decide where to elope
Now that you know what vibe you want on your elopement day, you can decide where you are going to elope. Do you picture your ceremony by a calm lake, windy beach, magical forest or epic mountains? Do you want it to be in your own country or travel and explore another country you wish to scratch off your bucket list?
A lot of couples plan their elopement in a country where they want to spent their honeymoon. So what honeymoon destination have you been dreaming about?
As an adventure photographer I love elopements in nature! You can find more elopement inspiration for locations on my blog for places like the Dolomites, Scotland or Norway.
Step 3. Pick your elopement vendors
To make sure your day goes smoothly, you need to hire some awesome vendors who understand your vision. It’s so important to have like-minded people helping you plan your day because it takes all the stress off. Do you want to get married officially by an officiant or have a symbolical vow reading ceremony?
What’s important to you? The dress, flowers, photos, diner, cake, backdrop, hair or make-up? Find vendors that match your personal style, connect with them and tell them your vision. My elopement photography packages include local vendor recommendations that make it easier for you to pick.
Don’t limit yourself to traditional wedding things but think outside the box to make this a unique and once in a lifetime experience. As an adventure elopement photographer I specialize in making this unique day truly about you!
Step 4. Announce your Elopement
When announcing your elopement, it’s important how you’re going to break the news to everyone. Some couples worry about this step because of the expectations of family and friends. Be confident in your decision and remember what you both find important.
Tell them before your elopement. You can tell people that you have been dreaming of an untraditional elopement because it’s more YOU than a traditional wedding. People will understand if you tell them your vision. You can even give a reception or BBQ party after you come back from your elopement to make it easier for them. You can also do a Skype call right after you eloped or do a livestream of the ceremony.
Tell them after your elopement. A lot of couples announce their elopement after they got hitched because they don’t want the pressure of others to influence their decision to elope. Follow your heart and do what feels most comfortable to you both. This day should be all about you two and your commitment to each other.
Step 5. Have your dream elopement!
Yayyy you’re ready to make your dreams a reality! Book your vendors, tickets or transportation and count down the days to your elopement day.
Remember to take in the moments and enjoy every moment to the fullest. That’s what elopements are all about… just you two, the intimate moments and your unconditional love for each other.
Are you ready for to create your unique elopement day? Fill in the contact form below to start the planning!
Check out my photos for more inspiration for your adventure elopement…
Vendors:
Photography: Amber Spits Photography
Wedding dress designer: Carla Couture
Bride’s shoes: Mary Jane Schoenenboetiek
Men’s suit: Hendriksen Mannenmode
Jewelry: Pluimage sieraden
Hair and Make-up: Daniëlle Rekelhof
Cake: Saakje Bakmeisje
Flowers: Bloemenzo Joyce
Styling and Cards: Willeke at Work
ARE YOU READY TO CREATE YOUR ELOPEMENT?
If you want help creating your adventurous wedding day, find a unique location off the beaten path, help with planning your timeline, vendor recommendations, and a creative photography style on your adventurous day. I would love to be more than “just” your photographer and help you plan your adventure elopement!