How to Begin Planning Your Elopement | Your Mindful Elopement Checklist
Your Mindful Elopement Checklist | How to Begin Planning Your Elopement
1. Set Your Intentions First
- What kind of feeling do you want for your day?
(Adventurous, quiet, playful, spiritual, cozy?) - Who do you want there (if anyone)?
- What matters most to you both?
Let these answers guide the rest.
2. Choose a General Date + Location
- Pick a season or month that feels meaningful
- Consider weather, travel, scenery, and significance
- Think: local gem, scenic destination, courthouse, or somewhere special to your story
3. Decide What Kind of Elopement You Want
- Just the two of you?
- A micro-wedding with 5–15 guests?
- A “just us” ceremony + casual celebration later?
There’s no wrong way — just your way.
4. Hire Your Key Vendors
Start with:
- Photographer (often your #1 guide)
- Officiant (or find out if one’s required in your location)
- Hair & makeup (if you want it)
- Florals, videographer, planner (optional, based on your vision)
5. Take Care of Legal Details
- Research marriage license requirements for your state/country
- Do you need witnesses? Residency? Waiting periods?
- Schedule your license appointment in advance if needed
(You can check with elopement photographers. Most know a lot of the answers to these questions locally and include planning in their elopement packages.)
6. Plan Your Ceremony Details
- Write or personalize your vows
- Choose a meaningful ritual (handfasting, letter exchange, etc.)
- Decide if you’ll bring music, props, champagne, or anything symbolic
- Consider a timeline that allows you to slow down and be present
7. Think About What You’ll Wear
- Dress, suit, jumpsuit — whatever feels like you
- Comfortable shoes (especially for nature elopements)
- Accessories, bouquet, and personal details that feel meaningful
8. Celebrate However You Want
- Private dinner or picnic
- A post-elopement party in a month or two
- Or simply a slow, joy-filled day with no extra events
- Zoom call with family later
9. Keep a “Sacred Little List” for the Day-Of
- Vows
- Rings
- License
- Comfy shoes
- Water/snacks
- A playlist or speaker
- A grounding item (crystals, a love letter / note from your partner)
- Sacred items – Jewelry from a loved one, photos or keepsakes of those who have passed on
10. Build in Time to Feel It All
- A meditation at sunrise
- Breathwork in the morning
- A private first look
- Time to hold each other after the ceremony
- Mindful Moments – time with just the two of you
Presence helps you see all the magic that is happening all around you.
You don’t need 10 bridesmaids or 200 guests.
Just a day that feels like you!
Let this be your permission slip to do it simply.
Intentionally.
Honestly.
In a way that supports your nervous system and your heart.
You’re doing it right already.
💛 With love,
The Mindful Bride Tribe
Send Love Is The Key To A Stress-Free Wedding Planning Experience.
