What Does It Mean to Elope in 2025?
Hint: It’s Not Just Running Away Together Anymore!
The word “elope” often brings to mind secret rendezvous, hurried ceremonies, and a dash to the courthouse—but in 2025, elopement has evolved into something far more intentional and meaningful. So, what does it mean to elope in 2025? It’s about breaking free from tradition to create a day that truly reflects your love story and is exactly how YOU want to celebrate.
As an elopement photographer with years of experience hiking the White Mountains and Acadia National Park, I’ve seen firsthand how couples are redefining what it means to say “I do.” Let’s dive into what modern elopements are all about and how they differ from small weddings.
What is the meaning of Elopement
In 2025, elopements are no longer about secrecy—they’re about authenticity. Couples are choosing to elope because they want a wedding day that feels personal, adventurous, and stress-free. The best thing about planning an elopement day vs. a traditional wedding is they are fully customizable. You are free to create a day that feels right to you. A day where you want, doing what you want, and with whoever you want by your side from just the two of you, to a few loved ones cheering you on.
Picture this: sunrise at the summit of Mount Moosilauke, sharing vows with only the wind and your partner’s tears as witnesses. Or exploring the rocky shores of Acadia National Park before boarding a private boat for a sunset cruise. Eloping gives you the freedom to craft a day that’s all about your love and the things that make you, well, you.
Elopement vs. Small Wedding: What’s the Difference?
While both elopements and small weddings focus on intimacy, they’re not the same thing.
• Elopements are typically just the two of you (or a handful of guests), often in a remote or outdoor setting. The focus is entirely on your connection and the experience of the day. This is a fully customizable day so the options are endless on how you would like to spend it.
• Small/Intimate Weddings might have 10-50 guests, still feel intimate, but include more traditional elements like a reception, dinner, or even dancing. These days are also fully customizable just with a few more loved ones by your side.
A lot of my couples will choose to do something in between. Imagine a morning getting ready with loved ones followed by a sweet ceremony in a beautiful location, celebrations & a toast, and then adventuring off just the two of your for you personal written vows at sunset.
When I work with couples planning an elopement, I often hear how they feel overwhelmed by traditional wedding expectations. Planning an Elopement or Small/Intimate Wedding is their way of stepping back, simplifying, and creating a day that feels right for them.
Why Eloping Is About Creating Meaningful Moments
The beauty of eloping lies in its flexibility. You’re not tied to strict timelines, guest lists, or seating charts. Instead, you’re free to focus on what matters most—each other.
Here’s a peek at how some of my couples have embraced this freedom:
Hiking a 4,000-footer in the White Mountains, followed by a picnic of PB&Js and coffee.
Sharing a first dance under the stars in Franconia Notch.
Going for a walk together at a scenic location in the White Mountains.
Sharing a luxury picnic with loved ones in Acadia National Park.
A mountain top toast at sunset to celebrate.
Breakfast at a cozy airbnb with loved ones before heading out for a hike to their ceremony.
Scenic plane tour over Acadia National Park.
Reading letters their loved ones wrote to them on a mountain top.
Vow exchange on the rocky coast line.
Hiking with their dogs.
Longboarding after their ceremony with family.
Cake cutting after adventure hike in the mountains.
The magic of eloping is that it allows you to be fully present. It’s not just about the “I do”—it’s about the entire day, from sunrise to sunset (and maybe even beyond).
How to Make Your Elopement Day Special
Here are some ways to make your elopement in 2025 unforgettable:
• Choose a Meaningful Location: Whether it’s a mountain summit, a quiet forest, or the rocky coastline, pick a place that resonates with your story.
• Incorporate Your Favorite Activities: Love hiking, kayaking, or making s’mores? Build those into your day!
• Hire Vendors Who Get You: Work with people who understand your vision and know the area—like a photographer who’s hiked every corner of the White Mountains (ahem!).
Why You Should Consider Eloping in 2025
Eloping isn’t just an escape from tradition—it’s a way to reclaim your wedding day and make it your own. It’s about saying no to stress and yes to adventure, connection, and meaning.
And in 2025, the options are endless. Whether you’re dreaming of a snowy winter elopement in the Mount Washington Valley or a summer adventure in Acadia, you can create a day that’s as unique as your love.
Final Thoughts: What Does It Mean to Elope?
Eloping in 2025 means embracing the freedom to celebrate your love your way. It’s about being intentional, adventurous, and true to yourselves.
As someone who’s explored countless trails, scouted hidden gems, and captured the joy of couples creating their perfect day, I’m here to help you every step of the way. Let’s make your elopement a day you’ll remember forever.
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