There is something really special about photographing people you know well. And, when our long-time friends and across-the-street neighbors reached out about documenting their intimate Vermont elopement in a wildlife refuge, I was honored to say yes.

One of the things that made this Vermont elopement so special is how them it was. From the handmade bouquet and outfit choices to the Scottish Oathing Stone Ceremony they performed, every single piece felt true to their relationship, love for the outdoors, and the beautiful simplicity with which they love to live.

Check out some of my favorite images from their day and continue reading for specific tips for personalizing your intimate Vermont elopement.

Tips for Personalizing Your Intimate Vermont Elopement: Questions to Ask Yourself

There are so many things to consider when planning your elopement in Vermont. Here are a few questions to ask yourself as you plan:

1. What makes our stories, personalities, and relationships unique?
   Although you can add personal touches to larger weddings and ceremonies, intimate elopements allow you to really hone in on what makes your love story unique and represent it throughout your entire day.
2. How can we capture this uniqueness with location and outfits?
   Choose a location that feels like you. For example, L&S chose a place close to their home where they love to walk their pups.
3. How many people do we want at our elopement?
   An elopement doesn’t have to be limited to you, your partner, and your officiant. “Elopement” have grown in definition from a secret ceremony to a smaller, “untraditional” celebration.
4. Who do we want to marry us?
   This depends on your religious beliefs and your vision for your day. If you want to be married by a close friend (or by your photographer if you want to keep it extremely small and intimate!), they can obtain a temporary license to marry you legally. Learn more about Vermont Temporary Officiant Registration here!
5. What do we want our ceremony to look and sound like?
   Do you want traditional ceremony language? Are there religious or cultural practices and traditions you want to uphold? Do you want something completely new and unique to you? There is no right or wrong answer.

These tips will help you create a unique experience that feels true to you! But, remember that there are more technical considerations as well like:

• Obtaining a marriage license
• Deciding which vendors you need and want to hire (venues or location permits, a florist, a photographer etc…)
• Getting a location permit if necessary!
• Travel accommodations

As a Vermont wedding photographer and elopement photographer, it is my job to help you from start to finish as you plan your day so your elopement feels as stress-free as possible and you can stay focused on your partner and the story you want to tell.

See L&S’s full elopement gallery here and learn more about working with me for your elopement here!