Hey there! So, you're thinking about eloping? That's amazing! Elopements have come a long way from being secretive and spontaneous weddings. Nowadays, they're a popular choice for couples who want a more intimate and unique wedding day experience.

Your elopement day is all about celebrating your love and individuality in a way that truly reflects who you are. It's a day where you can focus solely on each other, 100% free from the stress and expectations of a traditional wedding.

>> Want more than the 30+ ideas in this post? I’ve got you! Scroll to the very bottom of this post to download the full elopement activity freebie (with over 60 ideas!).

Why elope?

Eloping offers so many benefits that make it a special and truly unique experience.

First: it allows you to fully customize your wedding day. From the location to the activities to the vows, you have the complete and total freedom to make every decision that aligns with your relationship and values. It's all about creating a day that feels like "you."

Second: eloping provides an intimate setting where you can truly connect with your partner. Without the distractions of a large crowd, you can focus entirely on each other and the experience you've planned.

And finally: with an elopement, you can allocate your budget and resources towards experiences and activities that truly matter to you as a couple.

Elopement Activity Ideas for Couples Seeking an Adventurous Day

Boat charter to a private beach
Camping or glamping
Dog sledding
Explore a waterfall
Fly fishing
Guided safari
Helicopter tour
Hiking or backpacking
Horseback riding
Hot air balloon ride
Ice Skating
Jet skiing
Kayaking or canoeing
Mountain biking
Off-roading to your ceremony
Paddle boarding
Rock Climbing
Sailboat excursion
Sandsledding
Skiing or snowboarding
Snorkeling or scuba diving
Snowmobiling
Snowshoeing
Walk on a glacier
Zip-lining

*Hiring a professional guide is essential for some of these activities!

Elopement Activity Ideas for Couples Seeking a Relaxing Day

Bike ride through scenic trails
Couples yoga or meditation
Explore on a vespa or motorcycle
Go out for soft serve ice cream
Go see a live music performance
Go swimming
Have a campfire under the stars
Have a scenic picnic
Make coffee on a mountaintop
Nature walk with your dog(s)
Outdoor painting session
Relax in a hammock
Set up your own drive-in movie theater night
Soak in a hot spring
Stargazing
Visit a local brewery
Watch the sunset
Wine tasting at a vineyard

Things to Do Before Your Elopement Ceremony

Before the elopement ceremony, take some time to slow down, enjoy the moment, and honestly? Just have fun!

Big wedding mornings can often feel rushed and stressful - there's a timeline to adhere to, after all. Your elopement is exactly the opposite. This time is entirely yours to do with as you want...

You could start the day by writing heartfelt vows to exchange with your partner. These personal promises will make your ceremony even more meaningful.
Maybe you plan a relaxing morning of sipping coffee and making breakfast together.
Or going out to an amazing brunch restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and an incredible view.

Pre-ceremony plans don't need to be solely made up of the more "traditional" getting ready moments (hair and makeup prep, etc). With an elopement, you can really think outside the box and dream up a morning that sets the tone for the rest of your day.

Things to Do After Your Elopement Ceremony

After the elopement ceremony, it's time to celebrate! You could:

Arrange a picnic in a scenic location, complete with champagne and your favorite foods.
Take a leisurely stroll with your pups in a beautiful area, exploring the surroundings and savoring the moment of being newlyweds.
Treat yourselves to a couples' spa day, where you can relax and indulge in pampering treatments.
Enjoy a private chef-prepared meal by candlelight at your rental cabin in the forest
Have a bonfire on the beach, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories of your journey together.

To start brainstorming: Think about what you love to do together already, whether on a date night or just in everyday life. Those things will inevitably lead to some ideas and inspiration for your post-ceremony celebrations!

Elopement Ideas for Celebrating with Family and Friends

While eloping is often an intimate affair, you can still involve your loved ones in the celebration. This is actually super common!

One idea is to have a small post-elopement party with close family and friends. This gathering can be as simple as a cake cutting and toast in a scenic location, or as grand as a 5 course private chef-prepared meal under bistro lights at a luxury forest cabin. Something in-between could look like meeting your loved ones at a cozy restaurant's private event space for a delicious meal and relaxed vibes.

You do you.

Another option is to host a virtual celebration (great for overseas / destination elopements!), where you can live stream your elopement ceremony and spend quality time with loved ones through video calls and virtual toasts.

How to Make Your Elopement Day Uniquely Special and Personalized

To make your elopement day uniquely special and personalized, focus on the details that matter most to you as a couple.

Choose a location that holds sentimental value or represents a shared passion.
Incorporate meaningful symbols into your ceremony, such as exchanging personalized rings or planting a tree together.
Write your own vows that reflect your love story and future aspirations.
Consider wearing attire that showcases your personality, whether it's a colorful dress or a themed outfit.

By infusing your elopement day with personal touches, you'll create an experience that feels right and is all your own - sans stress and pressure.

Embrace the Joy & Adventure of Eloping

Eloping is such a joyful and adventurous way to celebrate your love and start a new chapter in your lives, whether you choose to have a small gathering with loved ones or embark on an adrenaline-filled adventure.

Embrace the freedom to design your own celebration, and let your own authentic interests shine through every moment of this special day.

If you're considering eloping or have already decided to elope, take the time to plan and organize activities that will make your day unforgettable. Create a celebration that truly reflects your love and individuality. Remember, this is your day! Happy eloping!

Click here for the full list of 60+ ideas