Must Have Elopement and Wedding Vendors

An elopement or small wedding is an intimate and personal way to get married, often chosen by couples who prefer a smaller, more private ceremony. While eloping may simplify some aspects of wedding planning, there are still a few key elopement vendors that couples may want to consider to ensure their special day goes smoothly. Here’s a guide to the essential vendors I suggest for the ultimate elopement experience:

1. Photographer

This may come as no surprise and sounds completely biased. But your photographer should be the very first vendor that you hire. And you should absolutely hire a photographer who specializes in elopements and small weddings.

Let me tell you why–

Most photographers who specialize in elopements and small weddings also double as planners (hi, it’s me!). Once you hire us, we’ll not only help you find the perfect locations wherever you choose to get married, but we will also help you find your other vendors, places to stay, give local food recommendations, suggest activities to do in the area, and even provide a timeline for your day to insure it runs as smooth as possible!

While the guest list may be small, the memories of your wedding will last a lifetime. Hiring a professional elopement and small wedding photographer ensures that you have high-quality images to cherish forever. We can capture the emotions, the beauty of your surroundings, and the intimate moments of your wedding day.

2. Videographer

Much like hiring a photographer for your elopement or small wedding, you should also hire a videographer who specializes in elopements and small weddings. Videographers who specialize can also help with planning, and they know how to work best with elopement and wedding photographers to ensure they are capturing even the smallest and most important details of your day.

3. Hair and Makeup Artist

Hiring a professional hair and makeup artist can help you look and feel your best on your special day. Whether you prefer a natural look or something more glamorous, a skilled artist can bring your vision to life. And no matter what look you are going for, a professional hair and makeup artist will also know how to do you makeup that best suits you in front of the camera. I have found some brides that choose to do their makeup on their own either don’t put enough on to really see it in the photos, or they over do it because they tell themselves they need it heavier for their wedding day, and it’s all you can focus on in the photos. There are even hair and makeup artist that will come out before your sunrise elopement or travel to your location!

4. Florist

While you may not need elaborate floral arrangements for an elopement, a beautiful bouquet and perhaps some a boutonniere or a floral crown can add a touch of elegance to your ceremony. Work with a florist to design arrangements that complement your style and the aesthetic you have chosen. But please be mindful of the types of flowers you use, and make sure that they are native to the location you are getting married in. If you use flowers and plants that are not native, you run the risk of seeds falling out and pollinating, and then becoming an invasive species. Which can harm the already existing plants and ecosystem in your wedding location. So it’s important to work with a florist that practices Leave No Trace and can guide you on what is and is not okay where you are getting married!

5. Cake Baker

After exchanging vows, you may want to celebrate with a sweet treat. Consider hiring a cake baker to create a cake for you to enjoy together. Whether you have just a simple picnic or a wedding with your loved ones, it’s worth taking the time to savor the moment and celebrate.

6. Accommodations

If you’re having a destination elopement or wedding, you’ll need somewhere to stay before and after the ceremony. Whether it’s a cozy bed and breakfast, a luxury hotel, or a rustic cabin in the woods, choose accommodation that fits your style and budget, and provides a comfortable retreat for you and your partner. I recommend choosing a spot that has good natural lighting and is the vibe you want for your wedding day and photos. Good natural lighting will ensure you get the best getting ready photos. Plus, it’s your wedding! Whether it’s just the two of your or a small group, you deserve to make the whole event special. So stay somewhere nice that you two will enjoy!

7. Officiant/Celebrant

Depending on where you get married, you may need an officiant. Here in Utah, you need an officiant and two witnesses. The officiant or celebrant will lead the ceremony and legally marry you. Whether you opt for a religious officiant, a civil celebrant, or someone who specializes in personalized ceremonies, make sure to choose someone who resonates with your values and vision for the ceremony.

However, if you want your wedding to be as intimate as possible, I am ordained! Many of my couples choose this route and I love it! I don’t prepare a speech to say, as I will be photographing you while you say your vows. But this option allows for something more intimate and allows you to lead your own ceremony.

You can also have a friend or family member become ordained through Universal Life Church for free online and have them officiate your wedding. And if go this route but you’re still looking for an option to have as few people as possible, I can sign as a witness!

8. Transportation

Depending on the location of your wedding, transportation may be necessary to get to and from the ceremony and activities. Whether you opt for a classic car, a Jeep to go off roading in, or a simple ride-sharing service, make sure to arrange transportation that fits your style, location, and budget. Some locations that are a little out there may require a high clearance 4×4 vehicle. So check with me first if you’re not sure!

By carefully selecting these essential elopement and wedding vendors, you can create a magical and memorable wedding that reflects your love story. Whether you keep it simple or go all out, the most important thing is to focus on each other.