WHAT IS AN ELOPEMENT?

Elopements, specifically adventure elopements are becoming more and more popular. And let me tell you, I’m here for it. Spending time with your partner doing something you enjoy in a beautiful or meaningful location can’t be beat.

An elopement is simply an intimate celebration of love, where the focus is on the couple. Traditional weddings often focus on the ceremony, reception, and guests over an intentional experience for the couples. Because I value my clients’ experience over anything else, I strongly encourage my couples to dig deep into their relationship and decide if an elopement, or something more traditional, is the optimal route.

There are benefits to both! But when you choose an adventure elopement, the experience is hard to put into words (or photos but here’s my attempt at both hehe).

PLANNING AN INTIMATE KAUAI ELOPEMENT

When Sarah + Kelsey first reached out to me for their Hawaii elopement, they weren’t sure where to start. They had no idea what island to choose or where they wanted to say their vows. One thing they were sure of: they wanted the process to be as simple and stress-free as possible.

Even though planning an elopement is supposed to be less stressful than planning a traditional wedding, when you throw out the wedding planning rulebook, the options can seem overwhelming! I’ve also found there are less resources than with wedding planning–not to fear that’s where your Hawaii elopement photographer comes in 🙂

Aside from helping Sarah + Kelsey plan their best day ever, I offered timeline assistance, location scouting, vendor recommendations and more.

I do this for all of my couples because I know how stressful this time can be and I want my expertise to be a resource for you!

KAUAI, HAWAII FOR THE WIN

Kauai is dubbed the Garden Isle because of its lushness and greenery; it is also the island which gets the most rainfall, hence it’s “lushness”.

After our discovery consultation and completing their questionnaire, we decided Kauai would be the best island for Sarah and Kelsey.

The island really has it all: waterfalls, greenery, stunning beaches, a small-town vibe, and the most epic canyon you wouldn’t believe exists in the tropics.

DETAILS FOR AN INTIMATE KAUAI ELOPEMENT

One question I get asked most often is what to wear for an intimate Kauai elopement. I always recommend something comfortable, flowy, and breathable. Sarah knocked it out of the park with her champagne-colored gown from Allure Bridals. It had gorgeous movement and the bottom actually soaked up the color of the canyon, making it look like a professional dye-job! Kelsey wore a simple top and slacks to complement.

They also brought their rings and vow books for beautiful detail shots. I always stress the importance of details; they aren’t just for traditional weddings. Details help tell the story of the day, and more importantly, the story of your love.

TIMELINE FOR AN INTIMATE KAUAI ELOPEMENT

As I mentioned, Kauai has it all. That’s why we got to pack so much into this day! Ever wondered what an all-day elopement looks like? Here it is.

We started the day in the mid-afternoon so we could capitalize on the direct sun bringing out the red clay in the canyon. We drove up the canyon and made a few scenic stops along the way. I took Sarah and Kelsey to a secret, secluded spot to say their vows.

After the ceremony, we casually explored the area and took newlywed portraits. After an hour or so, we drove back down to a gorgeous cliffside beach in south Kauai for a sunset photos. Sarah and Kelsey also reunited with their friends for some photos together.

After that we separated and the newlyweds enjoyed a celebratory dinner at a swanky oceanfront restaurant!

Sarah and Kelsey were raving to their friends about the ease and splendor of the day. They were beyond thrilled with their experience and I am so happy to have been able to be a part of it!

Interested in eloping in Kauai? Check out my Kauai Elopement Guide.