The “Unplugged” Elopement Guide: When You’d Rather Say “I Do” in Hiking Boots

Let’s talk about something that’s been happening more and more lately: couples looking at their 200-person guest list, their venue spreadsheet, and their growing Pinterest board of centerpiece ideas… and thinking “What if we just didn’t?”

If you’re here, you might be feeling that pull toward something different. Something that feels more… you. Something that involves mountain views instead of mansion venues. And honestly? I’m here for it.

What Makes an Elopement Different (Spoiler: Everything)

First off, let’s ditch the old definition of elopement Remember when eloping meant secretly running off to Vegas? Not anymore. Modern elopements are intentional, meaningful celebrations that put the focus exactly where it should be – on your love story and what matters most to you both.

Your Day, Your Way (No, Really)

• Want to hike to your ceremony spot at sunrise? Done.
• Prefer to exchange vows with just your pup as witness? Perfect.
• Dream of having a champagne picnic on a mountain top? Let’s do it.
• Want to kayak to a secret spot? I’m already packing my waterproof gear.

The Magic of Going Small

Here’s what happens when you strip away the “should dos”:

• You actually get to spend time together on your wedding day
• No small talk with your mom’s cousin’s neighbor
• Freedom to be completely yourselves
• Time to soak in every moment
• Photos that look and feel like you

But Let’s Talk About What Really Matters

You know what I love most about elopements? The quiet moments. The ones you’d never get with a big wedding:

• The shared thermos of coffee while watching the sunrise
• The nervous laugh as you help each other with hiking boot laces
• The private tears when you read your vows with just the mountains as witnesses
• The high-five at the summit (followed by the first kiss as married partners!)

Making it Legal (And Meaningful)

The Practical Stuff

• Yes, you can legally get married in the mountains (I know all the permit requirements!)
• No, you don’t need a huge vendor team (but I know the best outdoor-loving officiants)
• Yes, your dress might get a little dirty (and the photos will be AMAZING)
• No, you don’t have to tell anyone until you’re ready

The Meaningful Stuff Want to include family without the traditional wedding? Here are some of my favorite ways couples have done it:

• Video calls at sunset with loved ones
• Private dinner celebrations after the adventure
• Photo books as announcement gifts
• Mini receptions when you get back

Ready to Ditch the Big Wedding?

Here’s your permission slip: Your wedding day gets to be whatever you want it to be. If the thought of a traditional venue makes you cringe, but the idea of saying “I do” on a mountain makes your heart race – you might be an elopement couple.

And if you’re worried about what people will think? Remember this: The couples who choose to elope are often the ones who look back with zero regrets. Because they chose to start their marriage exactly how they wanted to live it – with adventure, intention, and a focus on what truly matters.

Want to explore what your elopement could look like? I’d love to chat! I know all the secret spots, the best sunrise locations, and yes – I still bring the good coffee. Plus, I’m pretty great at carrying extra snacks and helping with those hard-to-reach boot laces.

Drop me a DM – let’s start planning your perfect adventure! And don’t worry, I promise to share my super-secret list of the best mountain spots around Spokane that most people don’t know about. 😉

P.S. For all my type-A planners out there – yes, I have a full elopement planning guide with timelines, packing lists, and vendor recommendations. Just ask!