Why It Is Important to Plan A Full Day Elopement

Elopements used to be thought of as a very spontaneous act that was not at all pre-planned. These days, elopements have become a more intentional, intimate, and meaningful way to celebrate your union! More and more couples are embracing the idea of eloping as they are able to create a more personalized experience compared to a traditional wedding. But have you thought about the significant benefits of dedicating an entire day to your elopement? A full day elopement allows you to fully enjoy your special day and capture every meaningful moment of the day!

What is a Full Day Elopement?

A full day elopement is exactly what it sounds like: a celebration that will span the entire day! Unlike a shorter elopement that mostly focuses on the ceremony, a full day elopement captures the day from start to finish!

Imagine starting your day making coffee and breakfast together at your Airbnb, exchanging vows with a breathtaking mountain view behind you, exploring scenic trails and ending the day with a private candlelit dinner. While this is a just a quick example of what an elopement day looks like, the possibilities and combinations for activities are nearly endless! A full day elopement ensures no special detail is overlooked and every moment – big and small – is preserved for you to remember forever!

Bride's sister helping her put her veil while getting ready at their Airbnb
Groom putting his tie on while getting ready at the Airbnb on his elopement day.
Couple exchanging vows at their intimate elopement ceremony at Loveland Pass in Colorado.
Couple hiking to Dream Lake on their elopement day in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Couple cutting their cake at their airbnb in Breckenridge, Colorado.
A couple sharing a meal with their family on their elopement day.

Why It’s Important to Have a Full Day Elopement

  1. Capturing the Entire Story
    • A full day will allow your photographer the chance to capture your elopement from beginning to end and every moment in between. From getting ready in the morning, to the ceremony, to the post-ceremony celebrations, every detail will be documented to show and share the complete story of your big day.
  2. Space for Personalized Moments
    • Elopements often allow for a more personalized experience and provide you the freedom to include personal touches to your day. Whether it’s writing your vows together in the morning, exchanging meaningful gifts or sharing a picnic complete with your favorite foods and drinks, the extra time offered from a full day elopement will allow you to create special memories that truly celebrate you two as a couple.
  3. Relaxed Timeline
    • Planning a full day elopement will allow you to focus on what really matters during your big day- each other! A more relaxed pace throughout your day gives you the opportunity to savor and enjoy each moment without feeling rushed.
  4. Adventure and Exploration
    • A full day elopement will allow for extra time to explore on your big day! Whether you want to go for a hike, stop and explore several locations during your day, or even add in a visit to a brewery or bar, a full day elopement will provide you with the time to create the adventurous day you want!
  5. Cherishing Every Detail
    • Your wedding is one of the most important days of your life. Creating a full day elopement allows you to take the time to appreciate every moment of your big day. It provides the opportunity to slow down and embrace the day together allowing you to fully connect with your partner, the activities, and the emotions of the moment.
A groom helping his bride get into her dress at their elopement in Estes Park, Colorado.
A bride putting her earrings on while getting ready for her elopement.
A couple doing a first look before they exchange vows at their Brainard Lake, Colorado elopement
A couple riding an ATV on their elopement in Breckenridge, Colorado.
A couple enjoying a picnic on Loveland Pass, Colorado
A couple laughing while sharing a glass of wine at a winery in Breckenridge, Colorado
A couple's family celebrating their elopement at an Airbnb in Bailey, Colorado.
A couple and their family sharing celebratory shots at their elopement reception in Boulder, Colorado

Misconceptions about Full Day Elopements

There are a few common misconceptions about full day elopements that might make couples hesitant:

  • “They’re too expensive.” While full day elopements may cost more than a quick ceremony, they’re often more affordable than traditional weddings. Plus, the value of the experience is unmatched!
  • “They’re only for adventurers.” Full day elopements can be tailored to any couple, whether you’re hiking mountains, visiting a fun brewery or relaxing in a cozy cabin.
  • “Planning is too complicated.” Hiring an experienced photographer can make the process smooth and stress-free. They can provide you with suggested locations, activities, and timelines to help ease the burden of planning such a complex event.
A couple playing games at their Airbnb to end their elopement day in Estes Park, Colorado
A couple enjoying a quiet moment together during their elopement reception.

Examples of a Full Day Elopement

Example 1

  • 4:00am: Meet at airbnb for getting ready photos
  • 4:30am: Scenic drive to ceremony location
  • 5:30am: First look
  • 5:40am: Ceremony
  • 6:00am: Couples portraits with beautiful mountain views
  • 7:30am: Breakfast picnic
  • 9:00am: Rent ATV’s and ride up to the a beautiful mountaintop view
  • 11:00am: Arrive back at Airbnb for a celebratory first dance and cake cutting

Example 2

  • 12:30pm: Meet at airbnb for getting ready photos 
  • 1:15pm: First look at airbnb
  • 1:30pm: Leave for ceremony location
  • 2:30pm: Ceremony 
  • 3:00pm: Photos with friends and dogs at the ceremony location
  • 3:30pm: Scenic drive to national park
  • 4:15pm: Hike to mountain lake
  • 5:00pm: Couples portraits with a beautiful mountain and lake backdrop
  • 7:00pm: Photos at secondary gorgeous mountain with a first dance and champagne toast
  • 8:00pm: Arrive at a brewery for celebratory drinks and dinner

Check Out These Full Day Elopements!

Stephanie and Anders
Megan and Doug
Meridith and Ryan
Samantha and Henry

A full day elopement is much more than just a celebration—it’s an opportunity to be present and fully soak up one of the most meaningful days of your life! From creating personalized memories to enjoying a stress-free adventure, devoting an entire day to your elopement allows you to celebrate your love story in a way that’s as unique as your relationship!

Ready to start planning your full day elopement? Check out my packages and reach out today for expert guidance and inspiration to make your dream day a reality!