The greatest adventure yet!
Dolomites elopement photographer for American couples seeking a unique & unforgettable wedding experience in Italy.
Dreaming of getting married amidst the jagged mountain peaks, alpine lakes and wildflower-filled meadows of the Italian Dolomites?
You’re in the right place
Helping you elope your way in the Dolomites
TL;DR
Ciao! If you've made it here, you're probably dreaming of trading a ballroom for a mountain summit - and honestly? Best decision you'll ever make! (Yes, as a Dolomites elopement photographer, I’m definitely a little bit biased 😉).
The Dolomites offer something no traditional venue can: the kind of backdrop that makes your wedding day feel like the adventure it actually is. Jagged peaks. Alpine lakes. Wildflower meadows at golden hour. From iconic locations like Lago di Braies, Seceda and Cadini di Misurina to quieter alpine areas around Alpe di Siusi and Passo Gardena, I help couples find places that not only look incredible, but actually work for the unique vision of their day.
Whether you’re picturing a sunrise hike to say your vows, a slow morning at a mountain cabin with a view over the peaks, a paddle on an alpine lake, or something completely your own vibe, I’ll help you plan an experience that feels super intentional, seamless, and most importantly: true to you as a couple.
The Dolomites are one of the most breathtaking places you could choose to get married! And with the right planning, it can feel just as effortless as it is beautiful. If that’s the kind of experience you’re into, I would love to help you create the most unforgettable elopement day here in northern Italy.
Ready to do this? Let’s talk details!
So glad you’re here!
Hi, I’m Juliana! Your photographer and go-to resource for eloping in the Dolomites.
I’m originally from the U.S., but now live in northern Italy and get to spend my work seasons entirely in these epic mountains.
Over the last few years, I’ve gotten to know this region far beyond just the popular viewpoints - how locations actually function throughout the day, what gets crowded (and when), and how to build a timeline that gives you the best, most stress-free experience in the Italian Alps.
Let’s make your wildest dreams a reality.
What it’s like to work
& adventure together
Your only job on the elopement day is to show up, enjoy and be present. Everything else is handled and ready to go!
Here’s what that typically looks like:
Personalized location recommendations based on your vision
Timeline planning built around lighting, crowds, and travel logistics
Guidance on permits, access, and seasonal considerations
Vendor recommendations (hair & makeup, florals, etc.)
Storytelling photography coverage that captures the big moments and everything in between
PS. You don’t need to have everything figured out before inquiring about your date - that’s what I’m here for!
How to Elope in the Dolomites
A quick guide: what you need to know
Best Season
The main season runs from June through early October, when trails, lifts, and mountain huts are open. July and August are the busiest months, while June and September give you a better balance of full access and fewer crowds. September is my personal favorite. Love winter vibes? Opt for December through March.
Sunrise vs Sunset
Sunrise is almost always the best option if you want privacy and a more peaceful experience out on the trails. Sunset is stunning, but popular locations can stay busy well into the evening during peak season. Heading off the beaten path? Either of these timeframes will be perfect.
Getting Around
Distances in the Dolomites are larger than they appear on a map, and many locations require driving winding mountain roads, which can take more time than expected. Having a well-planned timeline (and a local photographer to help guide your planning - *shameless plug*) makes a huge difference.
Permits & Access
Most locations in the Dolomites don’t require permits for small elopements, but some areas have increasing restrictions or limited access specifically for driving and parking. Certain spots require hiking, while others are accessible by cable car or mountain roads. Don’t worry, I help with this!
Seceda
Tre Cime di Lavaredo
Alpe di Siusi
Lago di Braies
Cadini di Misurina
Cinque Torri
Passo Gardena
Lago di Carezza
Passo Giau
Val di Funes
Seceda Tre Cime di Lavaredo Alpe di Siusi Lago di Braies Cadini di Misurina Cinque Torri Passo Gardena Lago di Carezza Passo Giau Val di Funes
Not sure where to begin when it comes to locations? I totally get it! Every inch of the Italian Dolomites region is so beautiful, that decision paralysis can set in quickly.
Head over to my Dolomites elopement location guide to help guide your initial search. This is just a small sample of what’s available, but can help determine the type of backdrop that really speaks to you.
Once it comes time to actually choose your location, that’s when I send over custom ideas tailored to your exact vision. Long story short: no stress, I’ve got you!
Your elopement trail map
What a full-day (8 hour) Dolomites elopement actually looks like:
4:00 You’re married!
4:15 Cake cutting & picnic
5:30 Begin hike up to scenic summit
6:30 Arrive at top, first dance
7:00 Golden hour exploring & champagne
8:00 Start hiking back down
8:15 Headlamp photos as we descend
9:00 Photography coverage ends
1:00 Photography coverage begins!
1:30 Get dressed in wedding clothes
1:45 Read letters from each other
2:00 Leave for ceremony location
2:30 Arrive, get ready for first look
2:45 First look by the lake & private vows
3:00 Private rowboat paddling on the lake
3:45 Ceremony with family begins
What to expect on this adventure
Every Dolomites elopement & intimate wedding package includes:
Access to the 80+ page elopement planning guide, location ideas & permit assistance (when location permits are required), local vendor recommendations, accommodation suggestions, timeline creation, and much more.
One-on-one planning assistance every step of the way! We typically have at least two planning calls between officially booking and your elopement date. Plus, plenty of planning emails sprinkled in-between.
Candid and true-to-life imagery that preserves your best day ever. These images will last a lifetime, so my focus is simple: documenting your adventurous elopement experience exactly as it unfolds. No stiff poses, no fake laughs, no pressure.
Every elopement package has my travel fees (any travel within Italy, not just limited to the Dolomites) already built in! Because no one likes hidden fees, am I right? Once you’ve decided on your location, I’ll meet you there.
2026-2027 Dolomites Elopement Packages
Most couples invest an average of $7,500 for full day (8 hours, which can be split into two parts) Dolomites elopement photography and planning support. Packages range from $5k - $11k. These set packages are designed to be flexible depending on your vision for the day, but always include:
Custom location scouting
Full timeline planning
Local vendor & recommendations
Storytelling elopement day photo coverage
Planning support throughout the entire process
Dolomites Elopement FAQ
Do we need a permit to elope in the Dolomites?
Most locations don’t require permits for elopements, but some areas have specific driving restrictions. I’ll guide you through what applies to your chosen location.
When should we book our elopement?
Ideally 6–12 months in advance, especially for peak season dates. Booking a few months in advance is still doable, if you’re very flexible on exact date and locations.
Can you help us choose a location?
Yes - elopement location planning is a huge part of what I do! I’ll recommend locations based on your priorities, accessibility desires , and overall vision for the day.
What if the weather is bad on our date?
No stress! Weather in the mountains can change at the drop of a hat, which is why flexibility is built into every timeline. We also will chat about a bad weather backup date for absolute worst case scenarios.
Do we need hiking experience?
Honestly? Not necessarily! There are incredible locations in the Dolomites that require little to no hiking, due to the awesome gondola systems. You can pick your own level of adventure!
Can we elope legally in the Dolomites?
Yes, however most couples choose to handle the legal paperwork at home and have a symbolic ceremony in the mountains. I’m happy to explain both options so you can decide what feels right.
When should we fly in before the elopement day?
I always recommend arriving at least 2 full days before your elopement. Jet lag from a transatlantic flight is real, and a buffer also protects you if flights are delayed or any other travel hiccups occur.
What should we wear for a hiking elopement?
The Dolomites give you so much creative freedom! Flowy dresses move beautifully in the mountain wind and photograph so well. For hiking, I always recommend layering and sturdy boots (you can bring a shoe change!)
Can we have guests at our Dolomites elopement?
Yes, this is more common than you might think! Many of my couples elope with just the two of them, but some bring a small group of loved ones. We will always take accessibility level of the location into account for elopements with guests.
Dolomites Elopement Planning Guides
Ready to plan your dream Italian Dolomites elopement day?
Juliana Renee is a Dolomites elopement photographer based full-time in Northern Italy and happily traveling worldwide.
© Juliana Renee Photography 2026
