You know you can elope almost anywhere, right? The journey begins with your greatest desires and biggest dreams, and takes you exactly where you’re meant to be – all around the world. Eloping means choosing what is best for you in a nontraditional and self honoring way. Maybe the big wedding isn’t fit for you and you’re interested in an out of this world adventure – that’s where I come in. Having photographed over 150 weddings and elopements over the years, from the states to the coast of Italy, I have the insight into the steps you need to elope internationally.

On this page you’ll find the steps needed to elope internationally as well as advice on how to choose where and when to elope intentionally. Eloping is all about honoring your relationship in an intimate and authentic way, and having eloped myself in 2025 – I’m happy to help.

Here’s How To Elope Internationally

1. Pick a Season, Month or Special Date

Imagine your dream day or favorite vacation. What do you see? What do you get to experience? Close your eyes, grounding down into what feels right for the both of you. Do you feel aligned with a European summer trip, or a cozy winter exploration in Banff? Having the season in mind allows you to choose when you want to explore.

2. Choose a Location That Excites You

Mountains, desert, cliffs to tundra – alpine lakes to castles of Scotland, what are you dreaming of? The world is full of incredible sights to experience, and you can elope almost anywhere. Where have you always wanted to travel? Do you have a location that speaks to you culturally or from your heritage? Think about if you want to spend the day hiking and exploring on foot, or prefer a bustling food scene and nightlife of a city far away. There is so much freedom in eloping, if you could go anywhere, where would it be?

3. Hire a Photographer

You have your date in mind and your dream location, now is the time to reach out to your dream photographer. This step can also be done prior to choosing a date or location, as I help my couples choose where to elope often! Having a photographer to not only take beautiful photos, but also help plan is key to having a relaxed experience.

4. Hire a Planner

Optional for your elopement day, but highly recommended for international elopements. Having a planner who speaks the local language can make reservations, planning, and pivoting a smoother experience. Planning internationally can be a task, but having the right vendors by your side makes everything so much smoother.

5. Reach Out to Other Vendors

Now is the time to contact other vendors to make the dream come to life. Your photographer (that’s me!) and/or your planner can help find the perfect florist, private chef, or vow book curator to bring the vision to life and build the best support system.

6. Understand Local Laws and Permit Requirements

Do you want your elopement to be legal or simply artful? Understand the legal requirements to getting married internationally, per state and country, and decide if you’d like your legal ceremony to take place there. Or, you can wed legally in the states (courthouse style) and have your adventure in another destination! Also, familiarizing yourself with the permits required for ceremony space and photographing are key. It’s important to respect the land you’ll stand upon. Your photographer and officiant can help with this. Finally, will you have witnesses or ask a friend or stranger to sign off for you? I’ve signed many marriage licenses over the years and am happy to act as a witness for you!

7. Don’t Overpack the Day

This is the time to dream big and make your elopement what you’ve always desired. Focus on the experience and the slow, intentional moments together, but don’t make it a production. You want to be able to fully experience the day without rushing from one thing to the next. If you’re wanting a full experience (boat rides, cliff diving, helicopter tours, the works) I recommend a full day or multi-day elopement to truly get the best of it all! The greatest thing about eloping is that it’s all about you – it can be as intimate and low-key or as grand and adventurous as you desire.

8. Go With the Flow

Finally, expect the unexpected and have a plan b. When eloping, you may run into rainy weather or unexpected changes – go with the flow! We can fit in an alternate plan in your elopement timeline, allowing for a positive experience no matter what the weather brings. Remember, release control on what we cannot control – the best part of this whole experience is that you’re marrying the love of your life!

Now that you have your checklist for planning your international elopement, it’s time to hit the ground running and dream up your perfect day! I’m here to help as your photographer and planner for your adventure elopement, let’s do this together.