A Photographer’s Guide to Planning Your Elopement Timeline Abroad (with real examples)

Why a Timeline Matters — Even for Elopements

One of the most exciting parts of choosing to elope is that you get to make your own rules. No pressure, no traditions dictating your day—just a celebration designed around you. But here’s something I’ve learned after years of photographing couples around the world: even the most intimate weddings benefit from a thoughtful elopement timeline to keep the day flowing smoothly.

A timeline isn’t about creating a rigid schedule. It’s about giving you the space to enjoy every part of your day, without stress or feeling rushed. From sunrise hikes to cozy candlelit dinners, a thoughtful plan ensures you have the time to soak it all in.

Travel Tips for Eloping Abroad

Because I split my time between South America, Europe, and the U.S., I’ve seen how every destination brings its own challenges—and its own magic. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Plan Buffer Days
  Arrive at least 2–3 days before your elopement. Flights get delayed, luggage can get lost, and sometimes your body just needs a little rest before your big day. A buffer gives you peace of mind. Also, jet lag is a real thing! I’m telling you by experience! LOL
  
• Think About Transportation
  If your dream location is in the mountains, vineyards, or along coastal cliffs, renting a car is often the best option. Go for a 4×4 or SUV in rural areas. If you’re staying in a city and not traveling far, a small car—or even no car—works perfectly. (Pro tip: electric cars are beautiful in theory, but in remote regions, charging stations can be hard to find, again)
  
• Know the Landscape
  Every place is unique. A sunrise hike in Patagonia isn’t the same as a vineyard elopement in Italy or a city rooftop in New York. Some locations require permits, hikes, or extra travel time. Building your day around the place makes everything smoother.
  
• Daylight & Seasons
  Summer might give you 14+ hours of daylight, while winter calls for cozy evenings and indoor dinners. Knowing your daylight hours is key when planning ceremonies, portraits, and adventures.
  
• Weather Surprises
  If there’s one thing I’ve learned traveling between continents, it’s this: the weather can surprise you anywhere. That’s why I always plan backup options into your timeline—so you’re never left without a beautiful experience, no matter what Mother Nature decides.

Option 1: The Adventurer (Full Day – Most Popular)

Best for: Couples who want a full day of adventure, capturing both sunrise and sunset while leaving time to rest in between.

This elopement timeline is a favorite because it balances adventure with ease. You get the dreamy morning glow, the golden sunset, and a full day that feels spacious rather than rushed.

SAMPLE ELOPEMENT TIMELINE:

• 4:00 AM – Getting Ready
  A slow, quiet start. Brewing coffee, writing vows, slipping into your attire in the soft pre-dawn light. These little moments are part of the story.
  
• 5:30 AM – Sunrise Hike & First Look
  Imagine walking up a trail under the stars, and as the sky turns pink, you see each other for the first time in your wedding attire.
  
• 6:15 AM – Ceremony & Vows
  With the world still quiet, you exchange your vows as the sun rises. It’s intimate, emotional, and unforgettable.
  
• 7:00 AM – Sunrise Portraits
  After the ceremony, we’ll explore the landscape. Think champagne pops, candid laughter, or just taking in the view together.
  
• 9:00 AM – Breakfast & Rest
  Back to your lodging for a hot breakfast and a nap. This mid-day pause gives you energy for the evening.
  
• 4:00 PM – Afternoon Adventure
  Head to a second location—maybe a vineyard, lake, or hidden viewpoint.
  
• 6:30 PM – Golden Hour Portraits
  From my photographer’s perspective, sunset isn’t just magical—it’s when the light is softest, giving you timeless photos you’ll love forever.
  
• 8:00 PM – Candlelit Dinner
  End with a private dinner: maybe a rustic vineyard meal, or a cozy chef-prepared dinner at your Airbnb.
  

My approach: I’ll help you design a timeline that feels natural, so you’re not “in a photoshoot all day.” The focus is on living your adventure—I’ll capture the moments as they unfold.

Option 2: Over the Mountains (Two-Day Experience – The Full Story)

Best for: Couples who want to include family or friends in their celebration, while also making space for private time together.

Splitting your elopement into two days means you get the best of both worlds: the energy of a celebration and intimate moments that are just yours.

Day One: Celebration with Guests

• 2:00 PM – Getting Ready with Loved Ones
  
• 3:30 PM – First Look or Private Moment Together
  
• 4:00 PM – Ceremony with Guests
  
• 5:00 PM – Group Photos & Toasts
  
• 6:00 PM – Dinner & Dancing
  
• 8:00 PM – Sunset Portraits
  

Day Two: Private Adventure Session

• 5:00 AM – Sunrise Adventure
  
• 6:30 AM – Private Vows or Letters
  
• 7:30 AM – Documentary Moments
  
• 9:00 AM – Portraits Before Saying Goodbye

Why I love this option: It creates balance. You get the joy of celebrating with loved ones, and also time to slow down and truly connect with your partner in a way that feels natural.

Option 3: The Moonlight (6-Hour Experience – Short & Sweet)

Best for: Couples who prefer a simple, intentional day—perfect for vow renewals, symbolic ceremonies, or those who want a relaxed experience abroad.

Sample Elopement Timeline:

• 2:00 PM – Getting Ready
  The anticipation, the details, the letters.
  
• 3:00 PM – Ceremony at Location One
  A vineyard, rooftop, or coastal cliff—this is the heart of the day.
  
• 4:00 PM – Champagne & Portraits
  Celebrate with a toast, cake cutting, or picnic.
  
• 5:00 PM – Adventure Portraits at Location Two
  A short drive or walk to a second spot adds variety to your story.
  
• 6:30 PM – Sunset Session
  Dreamy, golden-hour portraits.
  
• 8:00 PM – Blue Hour Ending
  A lantern walk, stargazing, or romantic dinner to close the day.
  

This elopement timeline proves you don’t need a full day for your elopement to be meaningful—you just need a plan that gives you space to celebrate in a way that feels like you.

Final Thoughts

Here’s what I want you to remember: your elopement shouldn’t feel rushed. My goal as your photographer is to create space in your day to actually enjoy it—whether that’s a midday nap, a hike together at dawn, or a long dinner under the stars.

No matter which timeline you choose, the most important thing is that it reflects you. And remember—you can always start with a base package to save your date and upgrade later as your plans evolve (pricing may change).

Ready to design your dream elopement? Let’s chat! I offer free consultations where we’ll walk through your vision, destination, and create a timeline that feels true to you.