How to Plan a Winter Elopement
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(Originally published in 2020, newly updated for 2024)
Thinking of planning a winter elopement celebration? Winter weddings can be absolute magic, with shimmering snowy backdrops and glowing sunlight against the frozen landscape. Often, winter elopements are even easier to plan since it’s the off-season from weddings!
That being said, there are a few super important factors to keep in mind when planning your elopement day in the snow. In this blog post, I’m breaking down 5 essential tips to help you plan your dream winter elopement day (and keep warm in the process)!
1. Intentionally plan your location
Snowy winter weather can bring a few winter obstacles. Road conditions and accessibility will play a huge roll in your location choice. When narrowing down location ideas, make sure to look into:
Whether or not your destination is drivable in the winter months, and if 4WD is required.
If there are any “transportation” alternatives available (i.e. taking a chairlift to the top of a mountain).
Whether or not your ideal spot is open to the public in the winter (some roads close entirely).
For hiking elopements / outdoor elopements, renting a vacation home near your ceremony location is a great way to escape the chilly weather for a little warm up break mid-celebration!
Or, if you’re thinking of keeping your elopement all in one location, you could opt for a cozy lodge like this one in the Adirondacks, a ski resort like this in Alaska, or even something completely off the beaten path like this Panorama Glass Lodge in Iceland.
Don’t worry - if we’re working together for your elopement day, I always help my couples with these logistics. :)
2. Incorporate activities
Something like skiing or snowshoeing sound like your style? Incorporate fun winter activities into your day for an extra memorable experience!
Want to stay cozy and warm? Think about planning a campfire setup to snuggle up in front of after your vows. Bonus: mulled wine, hot cider or even some cocoa sips are a perfect addition to snowy winter nuptials.
Here are some activity ideas to consider for your winter elopement day:
Snowshoeing excursion
Explore snowy landscapes together on a snowshoeing adventure. Bundle up and enjoy the magic of a snowy forest trek - it's a romantic and active way to enjoy the winter scenery.
Ice skating
Find a picturesque outdoor ice rink for some classic winter fun. Or, even better, wild ice skating on a frozen lake!
Skiing or snowboarding
Hit the slopes! Whether you're beginners or seasoned pros, it can be an amazing shared experience on your wedding day.
Winter camping
For couples who love camping, consider hot tent camping in the winter wilderness. Just make sure you're well-prepared for the cold! For my Adirondack Mountains couples out there: St. Regis Canoe Outfitters offers amazing hot tent rental packages for this - inclusive of gear and even an option for included meals!
Dog sledding
Imagine celebrating your wedding day with a dog sled ride for two through the wintery terrain! This is an experience you would never forget.
Winter picnic
Pack a cozy picnic with warm beverages and comfort food. Find a scenic spot, near a frozen lake or some snow-covered mountain views, and enjoy each other's company.
Aurora Borealis watching
If you're in a location where the Northern Lights are visible, plan your elopement around experiencing this incredible natural light display.
Ice climbing
For the super adventurous, try ice climbing! Add that extra thrill factor to your winter elopement day.
Winter hiking elopement in the mountains of Alaska
3. Layer your attire
Dresses with long sleeves are always a great idea for winter wedding days, as are thicker materials and gowns with multiple layers. If you’re not a fan of sleeves on gowns, then jackets, sweaters or luxe cozy capes are a great way to add extra warmth.
For the guys, consider a suit made from a heavier material (i.e. wool).
Fleece-lined leggings or thick tights are a lifesaver for the ladies - seriously, it makes a huuuge difference.
Don’t forget about the warm socks!
4. Bring the accessories
…Very functional accessories!
Frozen fingers and toes are not welcome on your elopement day. Don’t forget to pack:
Gloves, mittens, scarves, hats
Cute shawl or wrap for part of the day (and a normal puffy jacket for those in-between moments)
Yaktrax for added traction on your footwear, or micro-spikes when the conditions require it.
Other items to keep you warm and toasty, i.e. hot beverages
5. Consider splitting up the day
Have you ever thought about splitting your elopement day into two parts? This is a very common game plan when my couples plan their winter elopement day.
During the first part of the day, you could explore an epic scenic location for your vows, include an activity and have plenty of photo time together. After this, you would take a mid-day break to relax, warm up and recharge.
Then for the second part of the day, have a reservation set up for a small private dinner at an awesome restaurant for the last part of the day. Or you can even hire a personal chef to prepare an amazing meal for you two at your vacation rental!
Ready to start planning?
Let’s chat about your winter elopement day!