So, you’ve started planning your elopement. Maybe you’ve already decided where you want to elope. Next on the checklist: create your elopement timeline.
As an intimate wedding and elopement photographer, I know that it can feel overwhelming to figure out where to start and what should be included in your elopement timeline. That’s why I wanted to create this guide for you.
Your elopement should be a reflection of you and your partners relationship, and can include anything that is important to you. It can involve an activity you love to do together, or an adventure you have been dreaming about sharing.
Let’s dive into how to create an elopement timeline and check out a few different elopement timelines!
How to Create an Elopement Timeline
Here are my top tips to help you get started creating your elopement timeline:
Start with visualizing what you want your day to look like
When it comes to creating your elopement timeline, there are no set rules—this day is all about YOU! Your celebration can be as unique as your love story, and you have complete freedom to design it however you envision. Whether you want a laid-back vibe or something more structured, the choice is yours. To help you get started on crafting the perfect timeline, begin by asking yourself these key questions:
What are your favorite things to do together? How do you want to feel on your wedding day?
How does your day start? Do you wake up with your partner and cook breakfast together? Do you go on a morning hike with your dog? Do you have coffee with your guests?
What is a must-have part of your elopement day? Do you and your partner share a first look? Do you read private vows before your ceremony? Do you have a first dance and celebrate with your guests?
What are you doing on the day of your elopement? What activities are a part of your elopement day?
How does your elopement day end? Roasting s’mores by the campfire? An intimate dinner with a private chef? Dancing under the stars? Soaking in a hot tub?
Plan downtime
One of the greatest perks of eloping is the freedom to truly savor the moments you love—without the pressure of a packed schedule. As you start shaping your elopement timeline, one of my top pieces of advice is to carve out some intentional downtime. Whether it’s taking a quiet hour at your Airbnb to relax or nap, soaking in breathtaking views, sharing a peaceful cup of coffee together, or simply setting aside time to enjoy each other’s company—these moments of calm will make your day even more special.
Account for the time it takes to drive to different locations
As you create your timeline, make sure to factor in travel time between locations—especially if you’re planning a hike to your ceremony spot. It’s always better to overestimate travel time than to feel rushed.
Also, consider the spots where you’ll be taking photos. If you’re hoping to explore a few different locations or drive between scenic spots, be sure to build that into your timeline and give yourself a little extra cushion. Trust me, having that buffer will help keep the day stress-free and enjoyable!
Decide what time of day you want to have your elopement
One of the most important decisions when planning your elopement is choosing the time of day. Are you dreaming of a serene sunrise ceremony, or does the idea of a romantic sunset elopement speak to you more?
The golden light during these times is perfect for photos, so if you want those dreamy, epic shots, aim to plan your ceremony around either sunrise or sunset.
However, if you are trying to decide between sunrise or sunset, consider the crowd factor at your chosen location. For example, if you’re eloping in a popular national park, evenings can get crowded, while mornings tend to be much quieter. In that case, a sunrise ceremony might be the better option to ensure privacy and avoid crowds.
Another option is to break up your day by taking a restful pause during the middle of the day, when the light isn’t as flattering, and then come back together for both a sunrise and a sunset ceremony or photo session. This way, you get the best of both worlds—stunning early morning light for a peaceful, intimate ceremony, and then magical golden-hour photos as the sun sets. It’s a great way to stretch out your day, enjoy some downtime, and capture beautiful moments at both ends of the day.
Brainstorm what type of activities you want to do
Make sure to sit down with your partner and talk about what you both envision for your elopement day. Remember, your elopement is so much more than just signing papers and having a quick ceremony—it’s about creating meaningful moments that reflect your unique love story. Here are some ideas to consider as you craft your timeline:
- Getting ready (either together or separately)
- A first look
- Cooking breakfast together or enjoying a quiet morning coffee
- An adventurous hike
- Exchanging gifts or reading private vows
- A catered dinner with your guests
- A scenic drive with photo stops
- A first dance or cake-cutting
- Fun activities like horseback riding, a sunset paddle, a dip in a waterfall, or stargazing
Elopement Timeline Examples
I’ve put together these example timelines to give you a better idea of what you can fit into a 4-hour, 6-hour, 8-hour, or Full Day elopement. Every elopement day look s different, so just use these as inspiration.
If we work together, I’ll help you craft the perfect timeline that aligns with your vision. The more time you allow yourself, the less rushed you’ll feel, and you’ll have room to savor every moment and enjoy all the activities you’ve planned.
Here are some elopement timeline examples I’ve created for you to take a look at so you can decide which timeline is best for you and your partner:
4 hour elopement timeline example
4:00 pm – Finish getting ready at Airbnb, photographer arrives
5:00 pm – First Look at AirBNB
5:15 pm – Leave the getting ready location, and head to the ceremony location
5:45 pm – Arrive at the ceremony location
6:00 pm – Hike to Ceremony Spot
6:30 pm – Ceremony
7:00 pm – Sunset photos / post-ceremony celebration with your partner/ guests
8:00 pm – Photography coverage ends
6 hour elopement timeline example
2:00 pm – Finish getting ready at Airbnb, photographer arrives
3:00 pm – First look photos
3:45 pm – Head to the trailhead
4:15 pm – Begin hike to ceremony location
4:45 pm – Arrive at ceremony location
5:00 pm – Start ceremony
6:00 pm – Watch the sunset, take couple portraits or head to another area to take more photos
7:00 pm – Head back to Airbnb, post-ceremony celebrations
8:00 pm – Photography coverage ends
This timeline gives you time for an intimate sunset ceremony, private vows, and a bit of adventure before relaxing and reflecting on the day. You’ll also get those beautiful golden-hour photos and a chance to connect with nature and each other.
8 hour elopement timeline example
4:30 AM – Photographer arrives at Airbnb, start getting ready
5:00 AM – Detail shots and getting ready photos
5:30 AM – Depart for the trailhead
5:45 AM – Begin hike to ceremony location
6:30 AM – Arrive at ceremony location, enjoy quiet moments and take in the sunrise
6:45 AM – Private vow exchange or first look, followed by your ceremony
7:30 AM – Take sunrise portraits together, capture the magical morning light
8:00 AM – Adventure activity (such as a scenic hike to a viewpoint, kayaking, or horseback ride depending on your location and style)
9:00 AM – Relax with a picnic breakfast or enjoy a quiet moment together, soaking in the surroundings
9:30 AM – Explore another nearby scenic spot for more couple portraits or a fun activity (e.g., paddle boarding or horseback riding)
10:30 AM – Head to a local restaurant or back to your Airbnb for a relaxing lunch or celebration
12:00 PM – Photography coverage ends
This timeline provides a relaxed yet adventurous day that includes plenty of time for meaningful moments like private vows, an adventure activity, and plenty of time to enjoy the beauty of the location. It’s an opportunity to really savor the day without feeling rushed.
Full Day
5:00 AM – Begin sunrise hike to ceremony location
6:45 AM – Arrive at ceremony spot, take a quiet moment together and enjoy the sunrise
7:00 AM – Private vow exchange or first look
7:30 AM – Ceremony
8:00 AM – Sunrise couple portraits
9:00 AM – Relax with a post-ceremony snack or picnic breakfast
10:00 AM – Head back to your Airbnb for rest, relaxation, and lunch
12:00 PM – Free time to explore, rest, or enjoy a local activity or restaurant
3:30 PM – Arrive at second adventure activity (e.g., scenic drive, Horseback riding, Kayaking, or a hike to a different location)
5:30 PM – Capture sunset portraits, enjoy the golden hour light
6:00 PM – Share a quiet moment together, exchange gifts or additional vows, or relax in your scenic spot
7:00 PM – Dinner or post-sunset celebration, maybe a small picnic or a meal at a local restaurant
8:00 PM – Relaxed activity (e.g., stargazing, a cozy walk, or light-hearted moments to wrap up your day)
9:00 PM – Head back to Airbnb, photography coverage ends
This timeline offers a balanced flow between intimate sunrise moments, adventure activities, time for relaxation, and capturing the magic of both the morning and evening light. It ensures the day feels relaxed yet packed with special memories and beautiful moments.
Multi-day elopement timeline
A multi-day elopement timeline allows you to get creative! It can be the best of both worlds. For example, you could spend one day sharing an epic adventure, just you and your partner, and the other day celebrating with family.
The great thing about multi-day elopements is how much time you’ll have and you won’t feel like you have to stuff everything into one fast-paced day.
So, in addition to incorporating one of the timelines above for your elopement ceremony, you can also take a day to:
- Have brunch with your partner and any guests you invite
- Explore the city/town and check out some local shops
- Go on an adventure whether that is hiking, skiing, kayaking, etc
- Have a nice dinner at a local restaurant to end a perfect day
- Go stargazing together
Ready to Plan Your Elopement?
I hope these examples and tips have helped you feel more confident about creating your elopement timeline. Above all, remember that your day should be an experience you and your partner will cherish—not one that feels rushed or overwhelming.
And if you’re still searching for the perfect elopement photographer, I’d love to be there to capture every moment of your adventure with heart and passion. Together, we can create a timeline that makes your elopement day as special and stress-free as possible.”
Your elopement is your day, which means it can be anything you want it to be, so let’s chat about what that looks like. You can contact me here or learn more about my elopement services here.
Read these posts next:
Your Ultimate Adventure Elopement Packing List: What to Bring With You and How to Prepare
Why You Should Plan An Epic Mountain Elopement in Shenandoah
