How to Plan Last Minute Elopement (Without the Stress)

So, you’re ready to ditch tradition, skip the guest list, and say “I do” your way—and you’re doing it soon. Like, really soon. Whether you’re eloping next month or next week, planning a last minute elopement doesn’t have to be stressful or chaotic. In fact, it can be wildly fun, intimate, and full of adventure and I am HERE for it. Really- I’ve helped plan elopements in under two weeks before. It can be done, and more importantly, it an be AMAZING.

As an adventure elopement photographer, I’ve helped plenty of couples plan magical, meaningful elopements on a short timeline. And the truth is? With the right guidance (and the right mindset), a last minute elopement can be just as incredible as one that took a year to plan.

Let’s dive into how to make it happen—quickly, beautifully, and with zero regrets.

What is a Last Minute Elopement?

A “last minute elopement” typically means you’re planning your wedding ceremony within a short time frame—usually anywhere from a few days to a few months out. While traditional weddings often take 12+ months to plan, an elopement (especially an adventurous one!) is way more flexible and streamlined. The average length of time I see for planning an elopement is 6-10 months, so I would consider a last minute elopement anything less than 3 months! The good news? Elopements are all about intention, not production. So whether you have a week or three months, it’s totally doable to create a celebration that feels 100% like you.

And here is the absolute best part: You can skip the pressure of a massive guest list, complicated logistics, and unrealistic Pinterest boards. With a last minute elopement, it’s all about focusing on what really matters: your connection, your vows, and your adventure.

Best National Parks and Locations for a Last Minute Elopement

If you want a jaw-dropping backdrop for your last minute elopement, the U.S. is bursting with options. Here are a few of my all-time favorite national parks and epic public lands where a quick elopement is not only possible—it’s unforgettable:

1. Moab (Utah)

With more public land than you’ll know what to do with, Moab is an amazing place to elope last minute. I hold permits with the BLM office and Dead Horse Point- plus know of a few secret locations where no permit is required at all. With a bit of flexibility, you can visit all the locations of your desert dreams, even on a short timeline.

2. Olympic National Park (Washington)

Want rainforest vibes and rugged coastline and mountain views? Olympic delivers. It’s one of the most versatile parks in the country and great for couples who want a little bit of everything. Bonus: If you don’t have guests, you don’t have to worry about permits, making it the ideal Washington National Park to elope in.

3. Mt Baker Area (Washington)

A stunner of a location- one of my favorites in Washington. Perfect especially for folks eloping without guests! For folks who love the mountains and feeling far from it all.

4. Sedona (Arizona)

A desert paradise, Sedona is perfect in late fall, over the winter (not including winter break), and early spring. It can get pretty crowded, but if you’re willing to get up early or hike a little bit, you can escape much of the crowds. Best part? No permits needed.

5. Oregon

If you’re eloping just the two of you on public land, you don’t need a permit. What more could you ask for?

6.  BLM Land and National Forest Land

Don’t sleep on state parks or Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas. These often have fewer restrictions and easier permit processes (which is clutch for a last minute elopement).

Picking Vendors for a Last Minute Elopement

Yes, you can still have an epic vendor team—even when you’re planning in a crunch. Here’s how:

1. Start with a Photographer (Hi, that’s me!)

Many adventure elopement photographers (especially those who specialize in smaller ceremonies) have room in their calendar for last minute bookings. Look for someone who offers planning support and location guidance—it’ll make a huge difference.

2. Go for Multi-Tasking Pros

Look for vendors who wear multiple hats. A photographer who helps with planning. A florist who also handles design. A private chef who can create a picnic-style elopement meal. The more versatile, the better.

3. Consider Offbeat Vendors

Think outside the box: local coffee shops or grocery stores that make gorgeous cakes. Smaller, local vendors are often more flexible (and have last-minute availability).

4. Ask for Referrals

Once you lock in one key vendor, ask them for recs. We all have industry friends who might be perfect for your date and vibe.

5. Be Realistic + DIY what you can

This is important- while you may be able to secure vendors, it’s equally (more?) possible that if you are eloping in under three months, you may have to forgo some vendors or learn how to do it on your own (hair and makeup? Wedding bouquet? These are things that you may need figure out how to do on your own or find an alternative- like a faux bouquet on Etsy, for example!)

Bonus: Attire!

Consider buying a suit off the rack and having it tailored, and finding a gown secondhand. Preowned Wedding Dresses, poshmark, and Still White are great places to find deeply discounted designer dresses. If you are close to a major urban center, check to see if they have any discount bridal stores (like my personal favorite- Brides for a Cause). If not, here is what I would suggest: go to any bridal salon and try on dresses. Find several you are stoked on- get the designer name, dress name ( wedding dresses have their own unique style number or name) and size you would order- then take to the Internet to find one of those dresses close to your size. Pro tip! It’s easier to tailor down than up, so if you can’t find your size, one or two sizes up is way better than one or two sizes down.

If you’re working on a SUPER tight turn around, consider ordering your dresses online from a retailer like Lulus or Anthropologie’s bridal section (the dresses labeled “ready to ship”). Order several, try them on at home, return the ones that aren’t the winner.

Permits for a Last Minute Elopement

Yes, permits are still important—even if you’re planning quickly. Every location has its own rules, but here are some basics:

1. National Parks = Permits Required

Most national parks require a Special Use Permit for ceremonies. Some parks process them within a few weeks; others need more time. Pro tip: if you’re eloping in under three months, consider having your ceremony somewhere a permit is isn’t required. Then, because portrait photography doesn’t require a permit, you can always visit the national park for sunset, a toast, dancing, adventures, and the like.

2. Public Lands = Easier Flexibility

BLM lands and National forests *usually* (but not always) have simpler (and quicker) permitting processes. Some even allow ceremonies without permits as long as it’s just you and your partner eloping.

3. Private Property = No Permit Needed

If you’re eloping on private land or booking an Airbnb/Vrbo with amazing scenery, you can skip the red tape. Just double check that events are allowed!

4. Photographer Permits

Don’t forget: your photographer may also need a commercial photography permit for some public lands. A seasoned elopement pro will handle that part—one less thing for you to worry about.

TLDR: The permit business can be confusing- this is why I always provide location recommendations that I know we can get permits for (and backups in case a hiccup arises!)

Be Mindful of the Time of Year

When you’re planning a last minute elopement, you might not have full control over the date—but you do need to know what to expect. Here’s how the seasons stack up:

Spring

• Perfect in the desert
• Still snowy (ie: winter) in the mountains
• Potential for rain or mud (especially in the PNW)
• Best locations? Moab, Sedona, Kanab.

Summer

• Peak elopement season for alpine locations
• Longer days = more flexibility
• Busy with tourists, so go for sunrise and/or weekdays
• Avoid desert locations- they are way too hot!
• Best Locations? Olympic National Park, Mt Baker, Oregon

Fall

• Crisp air, stunning colors, fewer crowds
• Some higher elevation trails close early due to snow
• Desert is again a prime area to elope.
• Favorite Locations: Flagstaff, Moab, Kanab

Winter

• Amazing light and privacy (especially in snowy areas)
• Best for couples who don’t mind the cold
• Desert locations shine in winter
• Favorite locations: Death Valley (yes, really), Sedona, Sonoran Desert

Last Minute Elopement Pro Tips

Ready to make it happen? Here are my favorite hacks for planning a last minute elopement like a total pro:

1. Weekdays Are Your BFF

Avoid the weekend crowds. Aim for a Tuesday or Wednesday elopement if you want privacy, availability, and better lighting options.

2. Sunrise > Sunset (Most of the Time)

Sunrise gives you empty trails, gorgeous light, and a calm start to your day. It’s especially key if you’re eloping at a popular spot.

3. Keep Your Guest List Small (or non-existent)

The more people involved, the trickier it is to plan- more logistics, more people to consider, more difficulty getting permits. If you’re planning a last minute elopement, the best bet is for it to be just the two of you!

4. Embrace the Unexpected

Last minute plans mean being flexible. Rain? We dance in it. Fog? Extra moody vibes. Changing locations? Maybe you find somewhere better.

6. Skip the Expectations

Your elopement doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s. Want to hike in your wedding clothes? Chill by a lake with pizza? Watch the stars and say your vows under the Milky Way? Go for it.

Final Thoughts: Last Minute Doesn’t Mean Less Meaningful

If you’re dreaming up a last minute elopement, here’s your permission slip: you don’t need a year-long timeline, a Pinterest-perfect plan, or a big production to have an incredible wedding day.

You just need the two of you, a gorgeous place, a little bit of intention, and an expert to help guide the way.

So you need help pulling it all together (even if it’s fast), I got you. I’ve planned elopements in under two weeks before. Let’s make your dream day happen—whatever that looks like, whenever it happens.

Planning a last minute elopement?

Reach out and let’s start dreaming up your wild, beautiful day. Whether it’s on a mountaintop, deep in the desert, or under a sky full of stars—your adventure is waiting.

LAST MINUTE ELOPEMENT PACKAGES

I’m based in the southwest but travel all over the western US. Take a peek at my travel schedule, and see what locations speak to you! And here’s whats included in all my elopement packages:

• A VIP 84 page elopement planning guide
• Unlimited planning assistance with all things elopement and logistics. This includes customized location guides, local vendor referrals from industry folks I know and trust, careful elopement timeline creation, an elopement packing list, local gems and recommendations to check out (both wedding related and fun related), and just general elopement hype woman.
• Online gallery of beautiful high-res images and full printing rights.
• All packages include photographer travel expenses 
• Officiant paperwork included (ie: I’m ordained and can sign off on your marriage license!)

   Four Hour Package: $6400 | Eight Hour Package: $8400 | Two Day Package (One 8-hr day + 4 hr day): $11,500