Listen. You’ve got this.

So you’ve decided to elope! Congratulations! I won’t tell anybody 😉

But listen. Before you pack your bags and board the next plane to Bali, please take just a moment to read over these tips from one of Boise’s premiere wedding photographers.

Don’t forego a budget

Even elopements can get expensive without a budget. My advice? Sit down as a couple and make a list. Three things you have to have, three things you want to have, and three things you’d have if all the planets perfectly aligned.

If you got all three items in your “have to have” list, would you be within your wedding budget? What if you added the next three in your “want to have” list? Prioritize the items in each section from most to least important and add as many as you can. Once you’ve filled up your budget, let go of the rest.

Do send an announcement

Trust me on this. Even if you leave all your friends and family behind and get married by the fjords in Norway, people are still going to want to share your joy and hear the news from you. Plus, they might be a little less sad about missing the big day if you send them an announcement with a picture and a personal note.

Announcements are also helpful because they often reap gifts. Someone might send you that espresso maker you always wanted. Or a set of towels.

Want to stress even less about your big day? Let me, your Boise wedding photographer, design and order the announcements for you.

Don’t forget the marriage license

More important than any toothbrush, spare pair of socks, or stick of deodorant (okay, maybe not that last one), you do not want your special, private day ruined by the realization that someone left the marriage license on the counter at home. Do yourself a favor and pack it now. Right now. Before you forget. You’ll thank yourself later.

And speaking of legalities…

Do line up a witness or two

Good news! Your photographer can act as a witness, so that makes one. But depending on where you’re eloping, you may need two.  

It sounds a little romantic — calling over some random person on the beach to sign your license — but this isn’t exactly a moment you want to leave up to chance. If ensnaring a perfect stranger is plan No. 1, at least spend a moment ahead of time to consider plan No. 2.

Don’t want anyone but the two of you? My hubs – and second shooter on your day – can act as witness number two, and officiant if need be!

Do book a photographer to document the day

Your friends and family are going to be so excited for you — even more so if they can see the details of your day through pictures.

If you choose me to be your wedding photographer, let me know how you plan on using your photos. For example, some couples who elope still have a reception. I’d be happy to put together a storytelling slideshow for you.

Or, bring your close family along to your image reveal and let them see the pictures for the first time alongside you. They can also use that time to participate in your album design or wall art selection. Some parents even want an album for themselves!

And speaking of albums… elopement or not, I’m happy to offer every couple I work with a parent album add-on at a great discount. These make beautiful gifts for parents and grandparents — especially those who couldn’t be present on your big day.