So, you’ve decided to elope—or maybe you’re still weighing the pros and cons of an elopement versus a traditional wedding. Either way, you might be wondering: How do you actually elope in Pennsylvania, and what do you need to make it happen? With so many details to consider, the process can feel overwhelming.
But don’t worry—that’s where I come in! As a Pennsylvania elopement photographer, I’ve had the honor of capturing countless elopements and guiding couples through the process. From navigating legal requirements to choosing the perfect location, I’ve seen it all—and I’m here to help make your dream day a reality.
Ready to start planning your perfect adventure? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about eloping in Pennsylvania!
Legal Requirements for Eloping in PA(aka Your Marriage License)
Before anything else, you’ll need to make sure you have a valid marriage license. While the process isn’t overly complicated, it’s essential to start applying at least 2–3 weeks before your elopement to avoid any last-minute stress.
In Pennsylvania, there are two types of marriage licenses to choose from:
- Traditional Marriage License: This is the standard license most people think of when they hear “marriage license.” It requires an officiant—such as a minister, judge, or justice of the peace—to legally perform the ceremony.
- Self-Uniting Marriage License: Pennsylvania is one of the few states where couples can marry themselves without an officiant, thanks to Quaker traditions. However, you don’t have to be Quaker to take advantage of this option! With a self-uniting license, you and your partner simply sign the marriage certificate, along with two witnesses, to make it official.
Speaking of witnesses, you’ll need two people to sign your marriage license, so be sure to plan for that when organizing your elopement.
The cost of a marriage license varies by county, typically ranging from $50 to $100. Additionally, Pennsylvania has a mandatory 3-day waiting period, so be sure to factor that into your timeline and avoid waiting until the last minute!
When to Elope in Pennsylvania
One of the best things about eloping in Pennsylvania is that it offers stunning scenery year-round, from lush forests and rolling mountains to breathtaking waterfalls. The best time to elope depends on the type of scenery and weather you envision for your day. Here’s a breakdown of what each season offers:
Spring (March – May): Fresh & Romantic
Spring in Pennsylvania brings blooming wildflowers, milder temperatures, and vibrant greenery—perfect for a romantic elopement. However, early spring can be unpredictable, with lingering snow in higher elevations and rainy days, so it’s a good idea to have a backup plan.
Best for: Waterfall elopements, wildflower meadows, and forest ceremonies.
Things to consider: Rain showers are common, so bring waterproof gear and embrace the adventure!
Summer (June – August): Warm & Adventurous
Summer is ideal for hiking, exploring waterfalls, and enjoying long daylight hours. The mountains and forests are lush, and the weather is typically warm—but it can get hot and humid in lower elevations. If you’re planning an outdoor adventure, consider a sunrise or sunset elopement to avoid the midday heat.
Best for: Mountain-top views, lakeside elopements, and adventurous hikes.
Things to consider: Popular locations can get crowded—opt for a weekday elopement for more privacy.
Fall (September – November): Vibrant & Magical
Fall is one of the most breathtaking seasons to elope in Pennsylvania, with fiery red, orange, and golden leaves creating a dreamy backdrop. The temperatures are cool and comfortable, making it a fantastic time for outdoor ceremonies. Peak fall foliage typically happens in mid-to-late October, depending on the location.
Best for: Forest elopements, mountain views, and cozy cabin getaways.
Things to consider: Fall is a popular season for tourists, so plan for early mornings or more secluded locations.
Winter (December – February): Cozy & Intimate
If you love snowy landscapes, frozen waterfalls, and cozy vibes, a winter elopement in Pennsylvania can be absolutely magical. The mountains, like the Poconos, often get a beautiful dusting of snow, making for a winter wonderland setting. Just be sure to dress warmly and prepare for unpredictable weather.
Best for: Snowy mountain elopements, intimate cabin ceremonies, and dramatic winter scenery.
Things to consider: Some locations may be difficult to access due to snow—plan accordingly!
The Best Time to Elope for Privacy & Comfort
- For fewer crowds: Opt for a weekday elopement, sunrise/sunset ceremony, or an off-season month (late fall, winter, or early spring).
- For the best weather: Late spring and early fall offer the most comfortable temperatures.
- For peak scenery: October for fall foliage, May for wildflowers, and January-February for snow-covered landscapes.
No matter when you choose to elope, Pennsylvania offers breathtaking locations year-round—it’s just a matter of picking the season that feels most magical for your love story!
Tips for a Pennsylvania Elopement
Now that we have covered a few of the basics, here are some of my tips to have your dream Pennsylvania elopement.
Picking your location
One of the best things about eloping is that you can get married practically anywhere! With just you, your partner, and a handful of your closest friends (or maybe just the two of you!), the possibilities are endless. From mountaintop vistas to cozy cabins, waterfalls, or even your own backyard—Pennsylvania is full of incredible locations to say “I do.”
If you’re feeling unsure about where to elope, here are a few questions to help guide your decision:
Is there a place that holds special meaning for you as a couple?
Maybe it’s where you had your first date, a favorite hiking spot, or even your home. Choosing a location with sentimental value can make your elopement even more meaningful.
What activities do you love doing together?
If you’re an adventurous couple who loves hiking, consider a mountaintop elopement with a breathtaking view. If you love waterfalls, Pennsylvania has plenty of stunning ones that make for a magical ceremony backdrop.
Is there somewhere you’ve always wanted to go?
Your elopement is the perfect opportunity to turn your dream destination into reality. Whether it’s exploring a new landscape or visiting a bucket-list location, your wedding day can double as an unforgettable adventure.
What’s the vibe or aesthetic you envision?
Think about the atmosphere you want. Do you picture a chic, urban elopement in a historic city setting, or do you dream of being surrounded by nature in the Poconos? Your ideal setting should reflect the energy and style you want for your special day.
No matter where you choose, your elopement location should feel authentic to you—a place where you can be fully present, connected, and in the moment with the person you love most.
Here are some popular locations to inspire you.
Hickory Run
Located in the western foothills of the Poconos, Hickory Run is a State Park brimming with possibilities. It has over 40 miles of hiking trails, some gorgeous waterfalls, and an epic boulder field. It is also close to Jim Thorpe giving you access to lots of fun activities and restaurants to add to your day.
Ricketts Glen
If you love waterfalls, Ricketts Glen State Park is the place for you. It has 22 named waterfalls within the park, and all within a 4 mile loop.
Promised Land
Promised Land is a park full of lush forests, two lakes, and several small streams. It covers over 3,000 acres of land, is a perfect place to say “I do”.
Cherry Springs
If stargazing is on your list of things to do on your elopement day, then Cherry Springs is the perfect choice. It is one of the top dark sky destinations in the world, right here in Pennsylvania.
At the end of the day, it’s important to remember that you get to choose how each and every part of this day goes. So, think about how you want to spend it, how you want to celebrate your love, and then base your locations on that!
Decide if you want anyone else there
One of the most exciting parts of planning your elopement is deciding who (if anyone) you want to invite. While traditional weddings often come with long guest lists and seating charts, elopements give you the freedom to be intentional about who shares this moment with you.
The Two Required Witnesses
In Pennsylvania, you’ll need two witnesses to sign your marriage license—so even if you’re planning a truly intimate ceremony, you’ll need to have at least two people present. Your witnesses can be close friends, family members, or even your photographer and another vendor (many photographers, including myself, are happy to sign as a witness!).
Inviting Close Friends & Family
While elopements are typically small and intimate, that doesn’t mean you can’t invite the people who matter most to you. If you can’t imagine saying your vows without your parents, siblings, or best friends by your side, consider a micro-wedding with a small guest list. Pennsylvania has plenty of locations that can accommodate a handful of loved ones while still keeping the experience intimate and meaningful.
Planning a Two-Day Elopement: The Best of Both Worlds
Can’t decide between an intimate adventure elopement and celebrating with family? Why not do both! A two-day elopement lets you enjoy a meaningful day with your closest loved ones while still having a private, adventurous experience just for the two of you. It’s the perfect way to blend connection, celebration, and adventure—without compromise.
Find the perfect photographer for you and your partner
I may be a little biased, but I truly believe that your photographer is one of the most important parts of your elopement. Unlike traditional weddings, where there’s a full guest list, vendors, and planners, your photographer is often one of the only people present on your elopement day. They’re not just capturing moments—they’re there to help guide you, support your vision, and document your love story in the most authentic way possible.
That’s why it’s so important to find a photographer who is the right fit for you and your partner. Here’s what to consider when choosing the perfect one:
Photography Style: Every photographer has a unique approach. Do you want moody and dramatic images? Light and airy? True-to-life colors? Look through portfolios to find a style that resonates with you.
Personality & Connection: Your photographer will be by your side during some of the most intimate moments of your day. Make sure their energy matches yours, and that you feel comfortable and natural around them.
Elopement Experience & Support: A great elopement photographer is more than just someone who takes pictures—they’re often helping you plan, scout locations, offer timeline advice, and ensure your day flows seamlessly. Look for someone who truly understands and embraces the elopement experience.
Openness to Your Vision: Whether you want to hike to a mountaintop, explore a waterfall, or have a quiet ceremony in your backyard, your photographer should be excited about your plans and willing to adapt to your unique vision.
Activities to Include in Your PA Elopement
One of the best things about eloping in Pennsylvania is that you’re not limited to just a ceremony—you can turn your elopement into an unforgettable experience filled with adventure and meaningful moments.
Whether you’re exploring the rolling mountains of the Poconos, chasing waterfalls in Ricketts Glen, or strolling through historic streets in Philadelphia, adding activities to your elopement makes the day even more special. Consider a sunrise or sunset hike for breathtaking views, a canoe or kayak ride on a scenic lake, or even a campfire evening with s’mores under the stars. You can also incorporate picnics, wine tastings, or visiting a cozy cabin for a relaxed, intimate experience. The beauty of eloping is that there are no rules—your day can be as adventurous or laid-back as you want, filled with the activities that bring you and your partner joy!
I absolutely love adventure so whether you are looking to do something in the city or out in nature, I am totally game. Side note, I am also an ultrarunner so I will always be down for any distance or difficulty you want to throw at me out on the trails!
Whatever it is, just remember that this day is all about you, and you can make the day whatever you want!
Final Thoughts on Eloping in Pennsylvania
Hopefully, this helps you as you start to plan out how to elope in Pennsylvania. At the end of the day, it’s important to remember that this day is all about you, so be creative, have fun with it, and do it with the people that you love.
If you are still looking for that perfect photographer to come along on this adventure with you, I’d love to connect. You can learn more about my elopement photography services here, or you can reach out to me here to talk about your dream day!
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