Rhode Island Small Outdoor Wedding at Lincoln Woods State Park | RI Wedding Photographer

Rachel & Ryan’s Stunning Intimate Wedding at RI State Park

SWELL & STONE / ADVENTURE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER / RHODE ISLAND & BEYOND

Rachel and Ryan’s small outdoor wedding at Lincoln Woods State Park in Rhode Island was the epitome of the perfect micro wedding. Not only did they have a stunningly beautiful and perfect day, but they chose the perfect time and place to celebrate their love as well. The leaves were still super green with hints of fall sneaking in, the weather was warm, and they shared a special and lovely sunset together. They did celebrate a DAY TWO portion of their wedding by hiking the highest peak in Vermont. But the Rhode Island section of their wedding was so lovely it deserved its own post.

Here’s the thing- so many couples ask me if it is possible to have the friends and family attend their wedding, but still have that special elopement experience that makes it feel like it’s all for them. And the answer is something along the lines of how Rachel & Ryan celebrated. They shared one special day with their friends and family and had a second day all to themselves for the purpose of sharing the adventure and creating new memories together. Their Rhode Island day was so freaking beautiful that I’m sure they would have been satisfied with that celebration, but the Vermont portion (where they planned their honeymoon) was their version of having their cake and eating it too. You can have everything you want for your day(s), sometimes it just takes a little creativity and vision.

Rachel got ready with her sisters and mom and then headed over to Lincoln Woods State Park to share a special and private first look with Ryan. We walked over to the ceremony site that they had picked out and set up earlier in the day. In fact, that’s what Ryan was doing while Rachel was getting ready. Friends and family arrived and the couple shared special vows, celebratory jigs, and lots of hugs. After the formal part of the ceremony was done we took portraits and then friends and family headed to the reception site while we caught the sunset at some of the most picturesque spots in the park. It was special to take some quiet moments after all the excitement of the day to sit and reflect with one another and just to enjoy the beauty of the place that surrounded them. We made one last stop at the iconic Lincoln Woods covered bridge before heading to the reception ourselves.

At the celebration, the couple enjoyed many toasts, a first dance, cake, and a lot more fun and celebration with family and friends in attendance. The perfect end to a perfect day of committing their lives to one another.

Colorful Rhode Island Small Outdoor Wedding at Beavertail State Park | RI Small Wedding Packages

Claire & Zack’s Beautiful Small Wedding at a RI State Park

SWELL & STONE / ADVENTURE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER / RHODE ISLAND & BEYOND

Claire and Zack’s small outdoor wedding at Beavertail State Park on the cliffy coast of Rhode Island was the stuff dreams are made of. Claire happens to be one of my good friends and when she reached out I knew her incredible boho style would shine in a gorgeous small wedding. She and Zack are also surfers who my husband and I have surfed with many times, so of course, they had to paddle out in their wedding gear!

Their day began with getting ready and the first look at Beavertail State Park. It’s the perfect spot to have an intimate, yet easily accessible outdoor wedding with unreal views. Seriously, this place has 5-star views for days and is one of the most serene spots in the Ocean State. They practiced their wedding song as the waves crashed nearby, and for the pair of surfers smelling the salty ocean air was exactly what they wanted on their day.

Soon friends and family began to arrive and the ceremony went by in a whirlwind. Speaking of wind, coastal RI is known for its breezy shores, so be prepared for a windblown look if you choose this spot for your special day! After the ceremony, we walked around the park to a couple of my other favorite spots and then we headed back to Claire’s mom and stepdad’s house for the celebration. They have an unbelievably beautiful back and side yard that was decorated to absolute perfection. Little details from Zack and Claire’s relationship were all over, and Claire’s mom is an expert gardener, so the whole thing had secret garden vibes. It could not have been more beautiful.

Toasts were made and tears shed. The couple shared a very special first dance as Claire’s stepdad sang to them. to me, their wedding was the perfect combination of friends and family putting unique and meaningful touches on the day while still maintaining an overall feel of beautiful and unique luxury that looks like it was completely professionally done.

The next day we hit the beach and they paddled out in their formalwear. The waves weren’t exactly cooperating and it was mostly windy and flat, but the images still turned out pretty cool and they had a great time. I love to recommend that even if you are having a small outdoor wedding with friends and family they either keep a part of the day or they schedule part of the day before or day after for adventurous photos with just the two of them. It’s important to include things that you love doing together on your wedding day(s), so carve out a time to make memories that are entirely your own and for just the two of you.

The Best Small Wedding Venues in RI in 2023

Top Small Wedding Venues in Rhode Island

SWELL & STONE /Elopement Photographer / New England & Beyond

Rhode Island is one of the best places in New England and in the U.S. to hold a small outdoor wedding. If you love coastline, wildlife, insane sunrise and sunset views, and a variety of great small wedding venues then Rhode Island should be on the top of your wedding list. There are a ton of spots with epic views, and the great thing about this tiny state is that it has over 400 miles of coastline that faces north, east, west, and south. So unlike other east coast locations, there are a variety of sunset view locations, of course, many sunrise spots as well, but also many scenic spots to watch the stars come out and the milky way rise over the ocean. So if you’re a beach bum, forest fanatic, or a fan of lakes, ponds, and rivers, Rhode Island has some of the best scenery you can imagine.

If you only have around 10-15 people or fewer in your group and you’re looking for places to elope on public lands with just the two of you or a very small group, check out my recommendations for the Best Places to Elope in Rhode Island. If you’d like to spread your search a little wider here’s my New England elopement guide. Check out these articles if you’re looking for Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, or Upstate NY.

When your group is larger than 15 people, but you still want those gorgeous outdoor adventure wedding vibes, it makes sense to rent a private space that has that feel, but can accommodate your guests with comfortable chairs, facilities, and a gorgeous spot to celebrate after the ceremony. That doesn’t mean we can’t sneak away for an hour and shoot couple’s portraits at a lighthouse, but it makes things logistically easier with a larger crowd. Here are a few of my favorite small wedding venues in Rhode Island.

1. The Preserve RI, Richmond

   Although this is a non-waterfront location it’s one of my favorites because this spot has magical forest and rolling hill vibes instead. So if you’re into a more remote feeling small wedding, this might be what you’re looking for. I particularly recommend this location in the spring when the flowers are in bloom. I mean how incredible would it be to have your getting ready photos done at their amazing treehouse retreat. Are you a fan of Lord of the Rings? How about hosting your cocktail hour at the incredible Maker’s Mark Hobbit House? Plus they have so many things for you and your guests to do from canoeing and kayaking to ziplining and rock climbing. Fill your weekend with adventure, fun, and beautiful experiences!

2. Castle Hill, Newport

   When I think of Castle Hill, I think of one of the most iconic and picturesque lighthouses in the whole state of Rhode Island. Their grounds are stunning, the sunset views are amazing, and you can choose from lantern-lit gardens and white sandy beaches, ideal for warm-weather Newport, RI weddings. They have this whole getting married thing down and they can assist you with the catering, flowers, and other details you might need help with. That’s right they have their own personal in-house wedding planners to make all your dreams come true for your intimate seaside sunset wedding.

3. Lavender Waves Farm, South Kingstown

   Imagine your stunning day surrounded by intensely purple lavender with the incredible smell wafting through the air. Lavender Waves Farm is a private farm you can rent for your small outdoor wedding. Located in South Kingstown it’s close to a number of other incredible spots that are great for couple’s portraits, like Point Judith and East Beach. Bonus- there’s no need for a florist when you hold your wedding at a lavender farm!

4. Various Venues, Block Island

   Block Island is a stunning wedding site with out-of-this-world ocean views, lighthouses, dunes, shockingly gorgeous beaches, and lots of beautiful pockets to explore. There are a lot of great venues and vendors on the island. So take the ferry over from the mainland, rent some scooters, explore the island for photos, and genuinely enjoy the hell out of your magical wedding day.

5. Private VRBO’s that Allow Events

   This is one of my favorite suggestions because you can come up with places you never dreamed you could hold your wedding at, and you have a place to stay as well! When searching for a place to hold your small outdoor wedding, make sure you go into their filters and check “Event’s Allowed” to filter to only the locations that allow events. You can also add other filters like “Pets Allowed” or “Waterfront” to really customize your amazing experience. I’ve found incredible treehouses, stunning beachfront property with private beach access, so if you want to include a clambake reception, make sure you check this out as an option. Check out this gallery.

6. Cove Cabin, Mount Hope Farm, Bristol

   This site is one of my favorites because it has a truly “in the middle of nature” vibe. Your entire guest list can stay here with you, giving it the summer camp wedding feeling. Cove Cabin sits on the water’s edge of Mount Hope Bay, with unreal views of Seal Island, the Mount Hope Bridge, and Narragansett Bay. It was built in the 1940s as an Adirondack-style family retreat, the area and its adjacent lawn offer breathtaking views of the Bays. The Cabin can host up to 60 guests. Sunsets are spectacular and on a clear day, the Mount Hope Bridge frames the Newport Bridge at the opposite end of Narragansett Bay. Plus there are lush forests and lots of greenery on the property giving a truly unique aesthetic.

7. Fort Adams State Park, Newport, RI

   Naturally, an iconic Rhode Island view is the Newport Bridge. So you may as well host your small wedding here. They have a ton of ceremony spots to choose from, parking is easy, and sunsets are incredible from this spot. They help orchestrate your day and have a variety of vetted vendors to choose from. This is a quintessential RI experience, so if you’re looking for iconic Rhode Island views, this might be your spot. Check out a gallery from this spot HERE.

8. Harbor Lights, Warwick

   They have incredibly gorgeous setups that can include a harborview ceremony overlooking the Narragansett Bay. Want to add more adventure to your day? They have the option to do a sunset cruise on the water. And they face west so the sunsets at this spot are unreal. They can help you figure out the catering, decor, and all the little details that will make your micro-wedding your dream day.

9. Ocean House, Westerly

   Another stunning waterfront location where the possibilities are endless. You can set up your intimate reception table on the private beach or hold your ceremony on the lawn. They have tents if the weather turns, and can generally match whatever feel you’d like to bring to your day from casual and laid back to high-end and elegant.

10. The Boathouse, Tiverton

    The Boathouse hosts small weddings with up to 48 people total on their stunning property on Sakonnet River with brilliant panoramic views. You can get married on the private dock, so literally over the water, or on the lawn, and they also cater the celebration after. It’s a great option for couples who want a gorgeous one-stop option that is also incredibly beautiful. Check out a gallery from this spot HERE.

11. Shepherd’s Run, South Kingstown

    Shepherd’s run is a new event venue and winery. It is full-service, so if you want to not worry about any of your wedding day decisions, let them take care of that for you. Wedding ceremonies can be held in the Beatrix Farrand designed walled garden, and there are 36 acres total to choose from.

12. Blueberry Cove Inn, Narragansett

    The adorable bed and breakfast helps you with all the little details. The innkeeper also serves as an officiant, and they take care of the flowers, cake, and champagne toasts as well. They have a beautiful lawn and they are very close to a lot of scenic spots for great couples portraits on the coast.

13. South County Museum, Narragansett

    The Museum is a seven-acre campus located on the 174-acre Canonchet Farm Park, two miles off US 1 in Narragansett. It’s just a five-minute walk from Narragansett Town Beach. They only host weddings are hosted from May through October and you can choose from the lawn or in the ivy-covered stable ruins. It is a more DIY setup and you arrange for tents & rental equipment. There is plenty of parking, but no heating or air conditioning.

Okay, that was a lot of info, but there are a ton of great spots in Rhode Island for an outdoor adventurous small wedding. Remember, it’s your day, so you can go canoeing, and then get married later in the day. Your wedding day should include exactly what you want it to include and nothing that you don’t. If you’re looking for a photographer to capture your unique and adventurous small outdoor wedding, that’s where I come in! I’ve been doing this for a long time, and can’t help guide you through the process. Get in touch using the button below, and start planning the small outdoor wedding of your dreams.

Elegant Small Wedding in the Adirondacks, Upstate New York | Upstate NY Wedding Photographer

Esti & Derek’s 2-Day Adventure Wedding in the Adirondacks

SWELL & STONE / ADVENTURE ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER / NEW YORK & BEYOND

Welcome to Day Two of Esti & Derek’s epic micro-wedding in the Adirondack Mountains of Upstate New York. Go HERE TO SEE DAY ONE of their incredible and colorful fall elopement. I’m beyond ecstatic that they chose me to be their Upstate NY small wedding photographer.

For Day Two Derek and Esti celebrated with family on an incredibly private beautiful lake with two cabins and private land bordering Adirondack Park near Lake George. The cabins were stunning and there were a variety of boats for the enjoyment of everyone attending to use. Day Two was a much warmer day than their elopement day, which worked out perfectly because it was super comfortable to hang outside for most of the day. However, a thunderstorm was threatening to strike, but ultimately never materialized, which left us with great temps and happy and dry wedding guests!

Esti had the help of her sisters and mother to get ready, and it was so fun to see two different sides of her incredible style play out. The happy couple shared another first look, and then we moved into family portraits. The backdrop at this location was really striking, so it was fun to take photos on the hill above the lake and the dock. After all family portraits were complete, Esti and Derek decided they needed to paddle a canoe on both days, so they headed out in the canoe to the private island in the middle of the lake. The fall colors were a little less bright than the location that we were at the day before, but it made for a beautiful early fall scene. Derek’s dad was a little concerned when Esti jumped out of the boat with bare feet to pull the canoe up for Derek, but of course she had done the same thing the day before!

They began the ceremony in the early afternoon, which was stunning and sweet, and seeing their families smiles made me think that you can have it all- an epic adventure elopement with just the two of you, and a celebration with those closest to you.

After the ceremony came the cocktail hour. As the sun sank low over the lake Esti’s dad made a toast and the families celebrated into the evening.

Desert Tower Wedding in Moab, Utah

Sari & Luke’s Stunning Castle Valley Wedding

SWELL & STONE / ADVENTURE ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER / UTAH & BEYOND

Sari, Luke, and I planned their stunning desert wedding in Moab, Utah from afar. I used to live in my truck for many years and the desert southwest is, and always will be, one of my favorite places on earth. They were coming from Washington and just knew the desert was the perfect place for them.

Several friends and family members were able to join them and what resulted was an incredibly beautiful, memorable, and joyful wedding day full of love and amazing views. We began the day at their Airbnb which was also their amazing reception location. There were so many perfect little details that told the story of who these two are together.

Let’s start at the beginning. “What made Luke fall in love with Sari, “She’s the complete package. She has a heart of gold—that encompasses everything. She makes me laugh, she is incredibly caring, the way she treats my son, Everett, how physically attracted I am to her, she sees me, she understands me, the way she loves me. I’m still falling in love with her every single day. “

What made Sari fall in love with Luke, “His thoughtfulness and small, sweet, daily gestures and little surprises meant the world to me as we were falling in love (and still do). His tender heart and strong exterior. His drive, passion, and ambition made me know we’d never become stagnant as a couple or individuals. The way he has always been my biggest supporter and never judges me, for anything. Him in daddy mode. He makes me laugh and feel like the most special and beautiful woman alive.”

After getting ready, everyone headed out to a remote location in the desert. We decided to do family formals there, so we could spend more time at a beautiful location. It was on the Colorado River with views of desert towers in the background, everything they hoped for in the backdrop to their big day. After portraits, we began the ceremony, which was officiated by a good friend. It was an emotional ceremony and there were more than a few tears shed. After wrapping up the ceremony, we headed to a different spot for sunset couple’s portraits while the rest of the crew headed back to set up for the reception.

You know it’s good when the videographer, who also happened to be Luke’s brother was exclaiming out loud the entire time. He was so blown away by the views, which was awesome to witness, and if Luke and Sari weren’t always stoked enough, which they were, it fully ignited the fire. After an incredible sunset, moonrise, and blue hour we headed back to the Airbnb for their reception. They had the backyard set up so beautifully, and it made for the perfect atmosphere of celebration. Toasts were made, games played, first dances danced, and we all watched the stars come out in complete awe. It was the perfect ending to a totally perfect day.

Luke and Sari on why they decided to have a small outdoor wedding, “A small wedding is more personal and our style—it’s intimate, sacred, and spiritual. We both have a deep appreciation and love for the outdoors and try to be outside as often as possible. Our lifestyle is very outdoor-oriented. We chose Moab because we both feel at peace in the desert and love to climb.”

“Kat did such an incredible job helping us plan, coordinate, and capture our small wedding in Moab!! She was so helpful, quick to respond, professional, and friendly! We are in love with our wedding photos and couldn’t be more impressed with how they turned out—PERFECTION. Kat went above and beyond to help us plan our special day (we live in Washington) and did a fantastic job capturing every big and small detail that we hoped she would. The editing and finishing touches on the photos are spectacular and we highly recommend her!”

— Sari & Luke

Gorgeous Maine and Acadia National Park Elopement with Family

KATIE & ADAM’S ACADIA NATIONAL PARK HIKING ELOPEMENT

SWELL & STONE / ADVENTURE ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER / MAINE & BEYOND

Katie and Adam originally planned an epic two day wedding in Yosemite National Park, but COVID and wildfires had other plans and they changed course to an equally epic two day elopement in Maine, including Acadia National Park. These two changed course with such grace, and while they were disappointed that their original plans were foiled, they quickly became just as excited about an Acadia National Park wedding.

We were lucky, as I was scheduled to be the original photographer anyway and they live in Connecticut and I live in Rhode Island. Also most of their family lives in New England, so it was a no brainer to pick an alternate spot within driving distance of the area. After talking over a few new location options they decided- Why not choose where the mountains meet the ocean? We found Grace on the Lake, a COVID friendly spot on a lake where each of their family households could stay in their own cabin, plus they had access to the beautiful lake-front with boats and other great perks. The actual ceremony took place right down by the lake, and the reception celebration was held just up the hill at a lovely spot overlooking the lake.

Katie & Adam shared beautiful vows, Adam was adorably and unsuccessfully trying to hold back tears through the entire ceremony. It was incredible to see how much they love each other and how perfectly their day fell together in the end. It was laid back, relaxed, gorgeous, fun, and full of surprise. The happy couple surprised their families after dinner with the news that they are expecting!

The next day we met in Acadia National Park where we planned to do the “Beehive” trail, one of the “Iron Rung” trails in Acadia. So not only did Katie have to do a somewhat intense technical hike in a form-fitting wedding dress, she did it pregnant and in a wedding dress. She was so impressive through the whole thing, never missing a step and laughing and having so much fun the entire way. It was hot outside, so managing to climb the iron rungs without sweating off all of her makeup was a feat in itself.

As we topped out on the summit we noticed the marine layer was moving in over the ocean below. Clouds came and shallowed some of the landscape, but it was still sunny were we were. We planned to hike down to watch the sunset, and now I knew we might be socked in for the sunset. When we made it down we found a spot on the coast, but found ourselves in gorgeous misty fog. It was like we traveled through five different locations and seasons through their two day wedding. As the sun started to sink lower it burst through the fog and sent incredible color all across the atmosphere. A spectacular view that was perfectly fitting for their spectacular wedding days.

It is obvious that no matter what these two do together it will always be an adventure. I love the story of how they met. Here it is in Katie’s words “Adam and I both found ourselves on Bumble as many 30 somethings do. Adam down in Norwalk (the NY side of Connecticut) had set a 15-mile radius on his phone meaning we were never really in each other's "sphere". Adam's brother is really into ghost hunting and Adam finally agreed to go to one of his events - dinner and an overnight stay in a haunted building, now a restaurant. Ghost hunting was in Derby, Connecticut outside New Haven and in a radius of me in Guilford, Connecticut. We both swiped right and planned to meet. I write a travel blog and wanted to do some "research" on the best New Haven pizza joint so I suggested we meet at Modern Pizza for our first date. We hit it off over meatball and clam pizza and the rest - well it's history.”

Elopement & Outdoor Wedding Planning Guide

Small Outdoor Wedding & Elopement Planning Checklist

SWELL & STONE / ADVENTURE WEDDING & ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER / UNITED STATES AND BEYOND

Ok, you know you want a different kind of wedding, one where the flowers are wild, and the decor is…grand, and happens to have naturally existed for millennia. 

Whether you choose an intimate destination wedding with friends and family or an elopement with just the two of you is entirely up to you, and the beauty of it all is that there are no rules! You can create a day that truly reflects your relationship. Congrats on being awesome, doing your own thing, and not playing by an obscure traditional rulebook.

So if you’ve dreamed of running through the mountains with your dress flowing behind you, staying out beneath the stars, or getting hitched on the beach and paddling out on your surfboard for a “first surf” instead of a “first dance,” you’ve come to the right place. 

Define “elopement”

It can mean a lot of different things, and there is no one way to elope. It can be an adventure close to home with some family, or a faraway destination with just the two of you. Normally a couple decides what to do based on the things that are really important to themselves and their partner. Elopements often take place on public lands, and it is always important to inquire to see if a permit is needed for the ceremony. For my photography purposes, I define an elopement as an outdoor adventure wedding with fewer than 15 guests.

Define “Small Outdoor Wedding”

A small outdoor wedding often takes place on the grounds of an AirbNb, family home property, lodge, camp, or resort area, and occasionally on public lands. I define “small outdoor weddings” as weddings with 15-35 guests. Often couples want an adventure wedding but still want to include family. They will dedicate one day to activities with family and getting ready, the ceremony, and the reception, and the following day they go on an outdoor adventure with just the two of them.

What kind of planning is involved?

You can start planning anywhere from 1 week to 2 years in advance. Generally, couples plan 6-12 months out which gives you time to plan travel, inform family and friends- if they are coming along- and find the location that works best for you. Beyond that, you can include as many or a few things as you want. Most people hire a photographer, but you and choose to do video as well, hire a florist, get a cake, hire an officiant, book a train ride, hike a mountain, paddle a river, etc… or not! That’s the beauty of your adventure wedding day- it’s entirely up to you!

How much does it cost to elope or have a small outdoor wedding?

Compared to a traditional wedding, eloping is a fraction of the cost. The average wedding in the U.S. costs over $35,000. You can plan the greatest elopement adventure of all time for less than half that amount. Plan to spend 50-75% of your budget on photography, and the rest on travel, attire, rings, hair & makeup, your marriage license, attire, and food. For small outdoor weddings, expect to spend a bit more because you need to account for more catering costs and more in total reception costs.

Can family/friends come?

Of course! “Eloping” used to meaning running away from your family and getting married without their knowledge. You can still absolutely do that, but a majority of couples who elope now do so to keep things simple, focus on what’s important to them, and make sure they truly enjoy their day. For a lot of them, that means a few family members or friends are present for their day! 

Stages of Planning

1. Dream- What is your vision for your big day? Have you always imagined a spot in a secluded forest or an unreal journey through a sandstone slot canyon? Whatever it is, dream big! We can make it happen. 

2. Plan- What time of year is best in your dream spot? Find a photographer who can help guide you through location logistics and is experienced in this specialized style of weddings. Start to make your dream reality.

3. Book- Decide on a location. Find a place to stay. Arrange transportation. Put together any permits you may need. Book flowers, hair and makeup.

4. Finalize- Finish planning all details with vendors. Decide on attire. Plan activities, and finalize a wedding day timeline.

5. Enjoy- Enjoy every single second of the beautiful day. Remember inclement weather makes for the best stories (and photos) later. Relish the adventure.

Important Logistics

Here are a few things to keep in mind as you go through the process of working out the logistics of getting married.

1. What are the local marriage laws and requirements?

2. Do you want other people there?

3. What’s the weather like in your chosen location this time of year?

4. Is this location a popular and crowded or secluded?

5. How accessible is the location? How will you get there?

6. Do you need a permit to take photos or to have the ceremony?

7. Will you do a “first look”?

8. What kind of activities would you like to include on your wedding day?

9. Do you want a picnic, champagne, or another kind of celebratory drink/meal?

10. What vendors do you need? Is it easy for them to get there, or bring items before?

Marriage Laws

Marriage laws differ from state to state

Research the paperwork you will need to have before and after, and determine whether you need an officiant and witnesses in the state where you’ve chosen to get married. Every state is different, some require a waiting period, some require blood tests, and some don’t require anything. Do your research and find out what you need in your state.

But don’t let the paperwork throw you off track. The wedding day you’ve imagined is always possible. In fact, in the majority of elopements, the paperwork is completely taken care of either before or after the elopement. Often times couples wait to sign the official document until right after they say the vows.

Whatever you choose to do, you commit your life to your partner the day you say your vows…the rest is just legalities. Here is a great resource for what you need to know based on whatever state you happen to be in.

Weather

High & low season

During “high season” you are likely to find the nicest weather but don’t rule out the low season. I like booking elopements in a location “low season” because it means fewer crowds, easier transportation, and seeing a different side of a place. However, it also means potential road closures, restricted access, and bad weather. Contact a local, ranger, or guide service to find out what is possible in your location during the time frame you are considering for your elopement.

What if the weather is bad?

You can only do so much to avoid bad weather. Start by researching beforehand to determine seasonal average temps, rain/snowfall, and wind. 

If you want to go in the low season to avoid crowds make sure to research seasonal road and transportation closures that may impact your day. Also, think about extreme weather like wildfires, floods tornadoes, and hurricanes. 

There is always the chance of bad weather during an outdoor elopement. It’s best to be prepared with the right gear and mindset. Just like you prepare for anything when you plan to hike a mountain or go for any other outdoor adventure, make sure you have everything you might need from bug spray to rain gear to hand warmers, depending on the season. And remember, sometimes bad weather makes for the best story and photos.

Permits

LEGAL RESTRICTIONS & ETHICS

When researching a location for the exact spot you want to say your vows, make sure it’s a legal and ethical spot to have a wedding ceremony. There are some locations that have laws against any type of ceremony, and some places where having a wedding ceremony wouldn’t be appropriate.

IS A PERMIT NECESSARY?

On most public lands and private properties, yes. Many also require a separate one for your photographer. The general rule is to assume you need to have a permit or ask permission unless you are told otherwise by someone with authority.

LEAVE NO TRACE

Make sure you follow all 7 Leave No Trace principles during your elopement. That means be careful where you walk, leave the beautiful place just as you found it, and make sure to not have your ceremony in a fragile environment.

FUN, ACTIVITIES, CELEBRATE

FOOD & DRINKS

Pack a picnic, get it catered, reserve the side patio of your favorite area eatery- whatever you decide to do makes sure it’s something you love. We will likely be running around all day so make sure you stay hydrated and well-fed.

FUN STUFF

Some people want to go on a hike, some want to stand up paddleboard, others skydive, go on hot air balloon rides, or surf! Your wedding day can look however you want! That’s the beauty of eloping.

If you are hiking to your ceremony location make sure to find a comfortable hiking pack. If going before sunrise, perhaps pack your attire instead of hiking in it, and change when you get to the location.

Bring extra layers, bug spray, sunscreen, headlamps, plenty of food and water, etc...!

CHAMPAGNE, CONFETTI, SPARKLERS

Celebrating is important, but we always do so in an eco-friendly way! We make sure to pick up the champagne cork, use local leaves as confetti, and check fire bans before lighting sparklers.

FINALIZE WITH A CHECKLIST

Elopement & Small Outdoor Wedding Checklist

I hope this guide helps answer questions you didn’t even know you had. It’s a beautiful thing when you realize your wedding day doesn’t have to follow the same framework that everyone else’s weddings do, it can be catered to you and your partner’s unique tastes. So keep the traditions you love, toss aside the ones you don’t care about, and let’s plan an incredible adventure for your wedding day and create memories and photos that will last a lifetime.

How Your Favorite Color Palette Can Help Determine Your Elopement Location

Find Out How Your Favorite Color Palette Helps You Determine Where To Elope

Swell & Stone | Adventure Wedding & Elopement Photographer | United States & Beyond

Ever wonder where the best elopement location is for you? Take this short quiz to find out, and then read below to learn more about the best places to elope based on your favorite landscape and color palette.

I have what some people might call a “strong aesthetic taste”. My favorite color is blue and various forms of blue-green and dark teals. If I were to get married again, I would elope in the desert because I love the way the orange rock looks against the bright blue sky, and how the tan of the sand and the soft green of white sage play in harmony together. My house has exposed brick, which I feel mimics the red rock desert, and I have a teal couch next to a light brown leather couch complete with a southwest style rug. I’m just drawn to that color scheme, and I think part of the reason I love the desert so much is because I get to walk through living art. I keep returning to walk amongst the towers and night skies like an art connoisseur would return to the MoMA.

If you’re considering getting married outside, you might want to think about the color scheme of the location you are interested in. The beauty of elopements is that you don’t have to spend hours weighing decor options, deciding which tablecloths to rent, and picking out how all the pieces of the puzzle will work together. When you choose a wildly different wedding experience like eloping outside, the wilderness is your decor! So, take some time and sit down with your partner, because everything from the location you decide on to the time of day you get married will affect your wedding color scheme. You may decide to go somewhere you’ve never been before, or you may decide that a place you return to over and over is the location for you. Whatever you decide, work with your photographer to make that vision a reality.

Read below to look through a few options, but keep in mind that you can find a huge variety of color schemes and palettes in the same location. This is simply a guide to get you and your partner thinking about what aesthetic you are drawn to. Just because you aren’t mulling over what color your tablecloths are going to be, doesn’t mean you can’t have your favorite colors be a part of your day!

Desert Color Palette

The desert is one of those places that has a huge variety of color palette options. There are minimalist options in places like White Sands National Monument in New Mexico, or bold contrasting colors in the red rock desert of southern Utah and Northern Arizona. In some locations you can get some really monotone, gorgeous looks. If you drive a few hours you will get bold colors, and vibrant shots. The thing is, sometimes you can get both in the same place depending on the time of day. Work with your photographer to get an idea of how the changing light will affect your images. Although every photographer is different, all the photographers I know LOVE shooting at sunrise and sunset. Some hate shooting in the middle of the day. I think it really depends on the location, and in some spots, I love shooting in the middle of the day just as much as at dawn and dusk. Also, the desert is a great place to wait until it gets dark and shoot the night sky. I love photographing when the stars come out, and in the desert that is almost every night.

Mountain Color Palette

The high alpine is one of the most enchanting places to be and photograph. Mountain blues and grays are some of the most lovely colors, but depending on the season you can see some orange, red, yellow, and green in the mix as well. Often there are water elements and chances for reflections, too. The season for eloping in the mountains is short…unless you’re willing to dress warmly and get some wildly different shots- winter wedding style!

Forest Color Palette

Foggy forests bring out some ridiculously rich colors and dreamlike landscapes. I always say, “don’t be afraid of rain on your wedding day, because interesting weather makes for the most interesting photos!” I had a client once say to me that she was going for a “woodland nymph vibe”, and I knew exactly what she meant and we scheduled her elopement for the fall in Vermont. The forest is a truly magical place to be, especially in the off seasons.

Ocean Color Palette

If you’re a water person, one of the most beautiful places to elope is to a coastal location. But keep in mind, not all coastal locations are tropical. There are gorgeous spots on the coast of Maine, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire. Of course, Baja California, and the entire California Coast are unreal for clear, blue waters. Then there are places where the forest meets the ocean, like the Northern California coast, Oregon, and the San Juan Islands in Washington. Keep all of these things in mind, and maybe one of those locations has everything you love all in one place!

Sunrise & Sunset Color Palette

I’ve talked a little bit about shooting at dawn and dusk because those times are what photographers call the “golden hour” and with that comes a different, gorgeous color scheme. If you go to a place that has a primarily blue, green, or neutral color scheme, the golden hour can be the perfect time to add warm colors to those landscapes.

I hope I’ve given you some ideas and things to think about visually as you choose your wedding or elopement location. Not only should it be a place you love or a place you’ve longed to go to, but it’s also important to think about the color scheme of the place because that will affect your photos! If you are searching for an adventure wedding or elopement photographer who can help you work through those things I would love to help. Contact me here or use the button below and let’s start planning your wildly different wedding experience!

Inexpensive Wedding Venue Ideas for Elopements

Free (or Nearly Free) Wedding and Elopement Ceremony Locations

SWELL & STONE / ADVENTURE Wedding & ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER / United States AND BEYOND

Wedding venues can be pricey, but what if you can find a free or inexpensive venue for your wedding or elopment? Game-changer, right! There are parts of your wedding that you certainly don’t want to skimp on, but if you’re the outdoorsy type, one place you can certainly save money is by eloping or having a small, outdoor wedding in the great outdoors. There are a variety of options to choose from when it comes to using public lands for your wedding or elopement. Public lands sometimes require a permit and it’s best to check with the nearest ranger station. Also keep in mind people you know with a gorgeous backyard, or private land with a view. Here are a few options for finding a free or inexpensive venue for your outdoor wedding.

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land

Bureau of Land Management or BLM land is technically owned by all of us. You own it, I own it, anyone who pays his or her taxes owns it. There are over 247 million acres of wilderness preserved in BLM land, and it makes up and eighth of the total landmass in the United States. That offers a lot of options of beautiful and secluded locations to have your dream wedding!

I lived in my truck for two years roaming and photographing the western parts of North America, and when I set out to find a camping spot for the evening I always looked for BLM or National Forest land because they often have free dispersed camping options. Each BLM area is different and some of them are busier than others and require camping or day use fees. Some sites can be completely free for weddings. It’s best to check in at the ranger station or do your research online before heading out to each specific location.

For example, the BLM land near “the wave” in northern Arizona has surged in popularity in recent years. The ranger station holds a hyper-competitive lottery each morning. However, there are a ton of beautiful spots in the same area that do not require a permit to explore. When I begin helping a couple plan an elopement or small outdoor wedding one of the first things I do is email or call the ranger station in charge of the land they want to have their ceremony on. Once I receive a response we are free to move forward with planning, and we can begin completing any necessary paperwork.

Find out more info about permits and permissions on BLM land here.

National Forest Land

In the U.S. there are 155 National Forests totaling about 190 million acres, roughly the size of Texas. There are so many gorgeous spots that aren’t designated national parks, and one of the huge bonuses of choosing to elope on these lands is the seclusion they provide.

Recently, I photographed a couple on National Forest land in Vermont. Not only did the rangers approve the elopement time and date completely for FREE they also sent the couple their best wishes. This couple brought along a cake and a picnic lunch to enjoy. Other couples choose to paddleboard or go for a hike on their elopement day. The possibilities are endless when you choose to get married on public lands.

Again, whether or not you will need a permit differs from location to location, so the best way to find out if you need one for your desired location is to contact the local ranger station.

Find out more info about permits and permissions on National Forest land here.

National Park Elopements

The National Park system in the United States holds vast and varied landscapes from the gorgeous seashore and ancient granite peaks of Acadia National Park in Maine to the otherworldly desert of Joshua Tree National Park. There are 61 national parks covering over 52 million acres of land. Another amazing perk of getting married on public lands is that you save money on decor because the landscape is stunning. Some couples choose to use freestanding arches to designate their ceremony site while others create confetti out of native dried brush or flowers, although neither are necessary to have a wildly different and beautiful wedding.

In most National Parks couples will need permits to hold their elopement or small outdoor wedding. Most permits range from $100-$400, and can be obtained by filling out a form on the park’s website or sending a paper form to a specified address. Each park has its own rules are regulations on what kinds of decorations, guest limits, and activities can take place during the ceremony. Some parks allow pets and others do not.

Here is the wedding info for a few of the most popular parks couples elope in:

Zion National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park

Joshua Tree National Park

Yosemite National Park

North Cascades National Park

Crater Lake National Park

Acadia National Park

Cape Cod National Seashore

If you would like more info on the parks listed or others not listed here, please fill out my contact form and I can help you start planning your dream outdoor wedding or elopement.

State or City Parks

Some state or city parks have incredible views and sometimes fewer restrictions for wedding parties. Often these areas also have groups of cabins that can be rented for family and guests, making logistics and planning easier for everyone. I photographed a wedding at Deception Pass State Park in Washington and the entire guest list stayed on site in a bunch of small cabins. The couple was able to get married in the backyard of the lodge with a view of the ocean and activities like canoeing and hiking were available on site. Obviously renting out an entire area of cabins is not free, and may not be considered as inexpensive. However, if you compare renting the same amount of hotel rooms for your guests in a city it is guaranteed to be cheaper, and overall a more adventurous experience.

Options like this are great if you plan on having more than 15 guests as some state parks have more facilities in place for large groups and less demand than large national parks.

Private Land Owned by Family or Friends of Family

Sometimes the most inexpensive and easiest option might be in your own backyard. If you have a beautiful backyard or know someone who does it might be worth seeing if you can make it work. Some properties back up to wilderness preserves and boast great views and ample parking for attendees. Look around the area where you live, and if land isn’t designated under one of the public land categories, check and see if you know who owns it.

Planning a wedding is a labor of love, and if everyone pitches in to make it happen you can stay on budget and have the incredible outdoor elopement or wedding of your dreams.

If you need a photographer to help make public lands adventure wedding dream images come true, get in touch today.

Enchanting Tree Grove Wedding in Florida | Florida Elopement Photographer

Kavita & Brice Tie the Knot in a Gorgeous Tree Grove in Florida

Swell & Stone / Adventure Wedding & Elopement Photographer / Florida and Beyond

There are so many things I loved about Kavita & Brice’s wedding day, from the colors to the many festivities, but the thing that made it so much fun to be there was seeing how much fun they were having. They smiled, laughed, and danced the entire day, up until the very end, and then they kept going. Their families were both incredibly fun and the day was full of joy.

They began they day getting ready separately and including a few sweet surprises for each other. Kavita kept mentioning how excited she was to see Brice, she couldn’t wait until the first look. When she arrived on site the bridal party took care to make sure they didn’t see one another. When Brice was in position Kavita walked up from behind and they barely saw one another before they embraced.

The guests soon started to arrive and the Baraat began. A Baraat is a groom's wedding procession in an Indian wedding. Brice’s side joined in dancing around the wedding grounds. When they arrived back to the start Kavita’s sister and mother where waiting there and a dance battle ensued. Kavita and her bridesmaids showed up for part of the dance battle. The entire wedding had so much fun with this portion of the ceremonies.

Next, Brice moved through a series of ceremonies and rituals before everyone was seated and they were ready to begin the formal wedding ceremonies. The Indian wedding ceremonies were done first followed by an American ceremony led by Brice’s mother.

After they said “I DO!” we snuck off for a few photos before delivering them back to their cocktail hour where they spent the rest of the evening laughing, crying, and generally having as much fun as possible. One of the more moving moments was when Kavita’s sister surprised her with a few songs played by live musicians. The entire wedding starting singing some of the songs at one point.

The reception took place in a gorgeous barn on the grounds of Florida Rustic Barn Weddings. The ceremonies took place on the grounds as well in a beautiful tree grove.

These two danced the night away with their seriously awesome crew of friends and family. They are two of the kindest humans, clearly incredibly in love, and I’m so happy they have found one another on this journey through life.

“Kat was our wedding photographer. She exceeded our expectations on all fronts. Our photos came out stunning. We are constantly getting comments that our wedding photos are unreal and that the turnaround time for getting previews and our photos was unheard of. Kat really spends the time to get to know your style and capture the shots that are most important to you. She is an AMAZING photographer. I know so many brides who end up disappointed by their photos, and I can say Kat will not disappoint. Her photos are just absolutely amazing and I am so grateful that we chose her for our wedding.”

— Kavita & Brice