Elopements don’t have to be just walking up to the courthouse, saying “I do” and taking a few pictures. This Lake Adger Elopement is the perfect example of how to take your elopement day, add adventure to it and make it your own. You can have an adventurous and intimate day while still having all the pretty details too! Wether it’s an airbnb in an epic location or the lake you grew up on. You can find a location that is special and then bring in all the stunning details to create something that is uniquely and authentically you that makes it feel like a true celebration! Repeat after me: an adventurous elopement DOES NOT mean having to forsake all the beautiful details.

Why settle for something that doesn’t light you up on your elopement day? This Lake Adger Rainy Elopement is exactly how taking the things you love and letting expert vendors create magic might just be the way to go when you say, “I do”.

With a sea of options planning your elopement can feel like going grocery shopping when you are hungry. Just throw it all in the cart and hope something great happens in the kitchen afterwards. It can be a bit overwhelming. But throughout my experience as a photographer and planning my own wedding I can tell you that there are vendors out there that would love nothing more than to help you from the very first step. And they are worth every penny!

Sounds like a dream come true right? Well, it doesn’t just have to be a dream it can be reality on your wedding day.

If you are saying “Okay Erika, I see it but how do I even do that?” I got your back! I want to help you paint the picture of your dream day as well as know that it’s possible.

Step 1 - Partner with vendors that know the logistics.

When it comes to your elopement day you will want to partner with vendors that are experts at what they do. From the ideation to logistics, through the execution. Vendors can step in and make it really special and romantic for you. Not only can they help with the overall look of the day, but they can help suggest things you may not have thought of in addition to removing a lot of stress for you.

Step 2 – Embrace the weather.

Yep! Embrace that rain! You can still have an amazing day even if it rains. When you choose to have a wedding outdoors that’s just something that you have to embrace and be prepared for and accept. During this Lake Adger elopement, they fully embraced the day even when it went from bright sunshine to down pours to moody cloud coverage, but that’s summer for ya! She ran around barefoot in her wedding dress and at one point we were literally ringing out the bottom of the dress. Plus, various weather can make for some really cool photos! The best thing you can do instead of worrying is to just stay in the moment together while we capture the magic of your day. Remember when you follow step 1 and pick vendors that know how to handle different situations you won’t have to worry about a thing on your wedding day because chances are they’ve worked plenty of weddings in the rain!

Step 3 – Have a backup plan.

Always have a backup plan. You already know step 2 is embracing the day. But it can’t hurt to have a backup plan in case severe weather does come. Your vendors will work with you to create a backup plan and it is best to do so from the get go - so if you have to make a last minute call, you’ll already know what the plan will be.

Step 4 – Incorporate a memorable activity.

During this Lake Adger elopement, they choose to go for a romantic canoe ride. Which, can we just talk about the beautiful floral details on the canoe?! Not only can you incorporate an activity into your day but you can also add décor and romantic details to every piece. Want to go hiking? Add a floral bouquet to your backpack or “Just Married” signs. Want to go in a hot air balloon? Plan a picnic for afterwards.

Just don’t forget to leave room for some spontaneity. You may just find yourself jumping into a lake!

It is usually the last thing anyone considers when thinking of their wedding day, but I promise, you won’t regret having some breathing room to just rest on the trail, soak in the views, be spontaneous, stop for coffee and donuts, or minimally not feel rushed from one thing to the other.

And if you’re asking yourself if eloping is right for you I have a blog with more details to help you plan your perfect day!

So, ask yourself, what does your perfect day look like? Is it hiking? How about jumping in Lake Adger? Or maybe even rock climbing. Comment below what your perfect day looks like.

Vendors:

Design and Florals - https://www.bloomingbranchcreative.com

Hair and Make Up - https://www.theposhpalette.com

Rentals - https://www.oldsouthcollection.com

Paper - http://www.ruthiekellar.com

Ring - https://rawbyoliviamar.com

Grooms Attire - https://www.olemasonjar.com

Cake - https://craftcakesclt.com