Couples choose to elope for lots of reasons! Some choose to elope because they want their wedding day to be just about them.  They want a stress-free day to focus on each other and maybe a handful of guests or just their immediate family members.  Some choose to elope because they’re looking to save money and maybe splurge on the honeymoon instead! Some choose to have the adventure of a lifetime and eloping is part of the big trip! Whatever the reasons, eloping in Las Vegas is a great idea and it doesn’t have to be cheezy or tacky! And it definitely doesn’t have to be in a chapel either.  Las Vegas offers lots of options on how to personalize your elopement and have it be the best day ever! We absolutely love photographing elopements.  They’re always so fun and relaxed, and are so full of emotion and intimacy.  After the ceremony, when it’s just the 4 of us, there’s no pressure of getting done in time for the reception.  It’s just us capturing their love and documenting their first moments together as Mr. & Mrs.  

Here are a few tips that will help guide you in planning your own amazing & unique elopement in Las Vegas:

1. Location.  The first thing to consider is where to have your ceremony.  Sure there are tons of chapels out there and they’re pretty low-hassle.  However, most of the chapels are windowless and the decor is not the most modern.  The ceremonies are also quick and generic, even Elvis has a script and his go-to songs 😉 If you prefer a more modern + intimate approach to your ceremony, you have plenty of other choices, such as the dry lake bed, the gorgeous desert, a quirky spot in downtown Vegas, the Neon Museum, or even a traditional venue such as a country club can host a small, intimate ceremony.  Each of these locations offer a gorgeous backdrop for your ceremony and require little to no need for additional decor or enhancements.  

2. Officiant.  Once you find a location that is perfect for you and your love, you’ll need an equally perfect officiant; someone who will take a personal interest in you and your fiancé’s love story and incorporate that into a meaningful ceremony.  We highly recommend Peachy Keen Unions!  They are modern marriage officiants who’s mission is to “collaborate with couples, creating and performing personalized ceremonies”, including elopements!  Another favorite is Pastor Doug Loman.  He is very personable and also works with his couples to help create a personal and meaningful ceremony.  

3. Details.  Once you know where you’ll be married and who’s going to officiate your ceremony, the rest is up to you! There’s the obvious things to consider such as your dress, shoes, hair & makeup, oh and his suit too.  Then there’s also the logistical things to consider, such as transportation and picking up your marriage license. But then there are the little details you add to make your elopement beautiful and most importantly, personal and all your own! From special touches incorporated within your own wardrobe to bringing special trinkets or mementos.  Writing your own vows is super special and because you’re eloping, you won’t have to be nervous about saying them in front of a lot of people.  A pretty bouquet goes a long way! Think of it as a gorgeous accessory.  And, since you aren’t spending tons on decorating a reception venue, you won’t feel guilty about splurging a little on some florals! Lastly, don’t forget the bubbly! Whether you’re toasting with a few friends or family who came along or it’s just the two of you,  after saying, “I DO!” is the perfect time for popping open a bottle of champagne to celebrate your love! 

I hope these few tips and ideas will help guide you while planning your Las Vegas elopement! May it be modern, intimate, and most importantly totally special to you and your love! Can’t wait to hear all about your plans! XO