How To Create The Perfect Elopement Timeline

Elopement Activities

Here are a few common elopement activities and estimate time frames to think about when creating your timeline. Notice that just because you are eloping, it doesn’t mean you can’t have things you thought you would have on your wedding day.

Getting Ready.

[Approximately 1 hour.] More than likely you will not be getting ready near your partner. You can’t miss documenting these moments! Even if you are getting ready together, this is an important part of your day.

First Look.

[Approximately 30 minutes] Since you are probably eloping just the two of you, you don’t really get that walking down the isle moment. Worry not! First looks are way better anyway. Schedule a first look to soak in the moment even more right before you do this thing.

Ceremony.

[Approximately 10-30 minutes] Ceremonies can be as easy as a vow reading or elaborate with traditions or other things that are important to you. Maybe you want to have a unity ceremony, meaning you ceremony may be a little longer than a vow reading.

Post Ceremony Celebration.

[Approximately 30 minutes] What will you celebrate with after the ceremony? Champagne popping, cake, shotgunning a beer? or all of the above? Incorporate something that you love.

First Dance.

[Approximately 5 minutes] Dance to your favorite song for the first time as a married couple!

Portraits With Guests (if any).

[Approximately 30-45 minutes] Round up your guests to get some quick shots!

Dope Elopement Photos.

[Approximately 2 hours] Make sure you have enough time to get those epic shots!

Food.

[Approximately 1.5 hour] Just because you are eloping, it doesn’t mean you can’t get some good food. Hire a private chef to cook for you!

Adventuring.

[Approximately 2-4 hours] What type of activities do you want to have as part of your day? Hiking, Kayaking, Climbing, Tubing, Skiing, walking, sightseeing, Star viewing, the possibilities are endless.

Elopement Ceremony Timeline

Self-Solemnizing Ceremony. [ up to 25 min]

• Find the perfect spot at your location. [5 minutes]
• Vow reading, both partners [10 minutes]
• Unity ritual, this can be planting a tree together etc. [5 minutes]
• Sign marriage license [5 min]

Ceremony with an officiant.[ up to 45 min]

• Find the perfect spot at your location. [5 minutes]
• Precessional. [20 min]
• Vow reading, both partners [10 minutes]
• Unity ritual, this can be planting a tree together etc. [5 minutes]
• Sign marriage license [5 min]

Elopement Reception

Do you want to celebrate with your loved ones after having your intimate wedding experience? Plan a post elopement reception at a later date or book a small venue/restaurant to have dinner with them that day!