Marry Wild
THE ELOPEMENT GUIDE
You've booked your elopement, now what?
I put together this guide to help get you prepared for your elopement day, so you can have the best day possible. If you have any questions at all though - do get in touch!
It all starts with aN AMAZING PLACE
Choosing the location for your ceremony can be tricky, especially if you haven't been there before. I am happy to offer suggestions for places I've photographed before, but you may wish to simply have a good scout yourself when you're over a day or so before. I will visit your ceremony location beforehand too once I'm in the area so I can get a feel of the area.
Most of my couples like to have photographs of them getting ready together before the ceremony.
It's a lovely way to begin your story.
otherwise i'll MEET you at the ceremony spot.
Getting ready
CONSIDER YOUR ACCOMODATION
FIRST LOOKs
One of my favourite things to capture at elopements is first looks. This is the first moment the couple sees one another, all dressed up for their little wedding. Not all my couples can manage to keep hidden from one another prior to the ceremony (the excitement!) but first looks can be a beautifully emotional experience and always makes for some great images.
We can choose a beautiful setting for this to take place, either at the ceremony (if you arrive separate) or by your accomodation.
DRESS FOR THE ELEMENTS
Choose the right shoes!
A boots and wedding dress combo not only looks badass, but is also essential with elopements out in the Scottish wilderness. You want to make sure you both have shoes on with good grip, are comfortable and help protect you from the elements - like a bit of rain or mud... They don't have to be hiking boots or wellingtons, cool Doc Martens or lace up leather boots work well too.
Fancy a more natural option? Going barefoot for beach ceremonies or elopements over soft flat terrain looks great too.
01
Wear a dress you can move in
As for the rest of your clothing - make sure to pick a dress/outfit that you can easily move around in. You want to feel comfortable and unrestrictive so you can walk about with ease. Try avoid a dress with a really long train, unless you're happy to carry it in-between shots, as they often tangle in the terrain. A flowy dress that catches the wind is very welcome though, as they make magical images.
02
Layer it up
The weather is very changeable in Scotland, particularly further north, no matter the time of year. So you're best to bring a selection of clothing to keep yourself warm and dry if it becomes a windy or wet day.
Waterproof jackets are essential for heavy rain, and can be tossed aside in-between photos. Otherwise a stylish cape, scarf or wrap can keep you cosy from any chill.
And most importantly, don't forget the underlayers! Thermal leggings, vests and long socks make a massive difference in keep your core temperate warm. Choose ones with merino wool in if possible. Plus they can be easily hidden under your dress or suit.
03
PLAN FOR THE LIGHT
CEREMONY
When it comes to planning your timeline of the day, deciding on your ceremony time is most important. Lightwise, the most best times to get married in the peak spring & summer months is early in the morning or late afternoon/early evening. This is because the light tends to be softest then as it's closer to sunrise and sunset. Sunrise is an especially magical time - you'll have the place to yourself!
GOLDEN HOUR
If you don't go for a sunrise ceremony, it would be perfect to time your final portrait session for golden hour (the hour before sunset). So if the sun is setting at say 8pm, a ceremony time of 5pm would work well as it would allow for a couple hours of portraits in the dreamiest light.
Golden hour is easier to catch in the autumn/winter months but can be tricky with summer weddings as the days are so long! So even just choosing as late/early a ceremony as possible and avoiding midday can make a big difference.
LIGHT CHASER
The location you have in mind will make a difference too, whether you will be surrounded by mountains for example or be fully exposed on a remote beach.
I think about light in great depths and have specific apps to help plan for it, so you don't have to think in too much detail. Just let me in on your plans!
PLAN A DAY TO REMEMBER
IDEAS FOR YOUR ELOPEMENT DAY
MAKE IT AN ADVENTURE
make your little wedding special and do something fun,
just for yourselves.
BEACH PICNIC
Get some goodies together - cake, a bottle of bubbly, a picnic blanket and watch the sunset.
GO ON A HIKE
Find a nearby hill or trail route and take in the scenery of the beautiful place you have chosen to wed, on foot.
TAKE A DIP OR HIT THE SURF
Organise a surf lesson or go for a swim at one of the stunning beaches your destination has to offer.
GET COSY
Pick an accomodation with a hot tub or fire and snuggle up together, away from the elements. Have a toast while keeping warm and stargaze after the sun sets.
THANKS FOR READING
I hope this guide was helpful with your plans. Any questions at all - drop me an email!
I'm really looking forward to working with you soon!