If you’re reading this you’ve probably already decided that you want to have an adventure elopement! Congratulations!!! Maybe there is a location that holds significance to you and your partner, or maybe the stress of planning a large wedding was too overwhelming. No matter what the reason, I am so happy you’ve decided to elope! I love adventure elopements because they offer couples a unique opportunity to celebrate their love in a way that is meaningful to them! Adventure elopements throw all traditions out the window and allow you to plan a day that is unique to you.

As you approach your elopement day, you may already have many of the larger details in place. This blog post is here to help you with all the last-minute tips to prepare for your adventure elopement including what to pack, and how to ensure your wedding day look lasts as long as possible. Are you ready? Let’s dive in!

Hair Tips for Your Adventure Elopement

Let’s start with the hair tips! As I’m sure you’ve probably experienced at one point or another, hair can have a mind of its own and when it is exposed to the natural elements (especially for extended periods of time) it can really start to be affected. So, my first tip would be to wear your hair as close to its natural state as you can. This will help keep its natural shape and texture as you hike or adventure through the day.

If you are curling your hair, try to make the curls extra tight then add hair spray, and don’t loosen the curls until you get onsite. The curls will naturally loosen up on their own, so by keeping them tight, you will help ensure they hold your desired shape as long as possible. Another option is to curl your hair, then loosely braid it to help hold the curl.

Now, for what hair products to bring with you. One of my favorite on-the-spot tips is heavy-duty charcoal dry shampoo. This is a great product to have as it helps soak up any sweat ensuring your hair looks fresh and clean once you arrive on site. You’ll also want to make sure you have extra bobby pins, clips, hair ties, travel hair spray, dry shampoo, etc.

Whether you are doing your hair yourself or hiring a hair and makeup artist, (did you know that there are adventure HMU that will even go onsite with you the day of your adventure elopement) it’s usually recommended to try your wedding hairstyle in advance so you know what works best for your hair.

Makeup Tips for Your Adventure Elopement

Just like hair, makeup tips will be different depending on each person. Some people sweat more than others so there are different things to consider depending on which category you fall into.

If you tend to sweat more, try applying your eye makeup first then leaving your base makeup application for when you reach the top of the hike. Pack some baby wipes so you can wipe your face when you arrive, then you can apply the rest of your makeup. It’s important to tell your photographer if you plan to go this route as they will want to add in extra time in your elopement timeline to allow you to go a little slower on your hike to try to minimize sweating as well as accommodate for a little extra time to apply your makeup once you reach the top. I always say take it easy on the way up, especially if heat is an issue. Going slow and steady with lots of breaks in between will help minimize the amount of sweat and ensure you are both looking your best!

If you don’t sweat as much, you can add a little extra makeup than you might normally apply and use lots of setting spray to help hold your look in place.

You may also want to choose waterproof products because let’s face it (pun intended), we’ll all probably be crying that day! 🙂

Best Clothing for Adventure Elopement Hikes

There are a couple of options to choose from when it comes to deciding what to wear for your hiking elopement.

Option 1: Wear hiking clothes up. You may want to choose a cute casual outfit that you will not only be comfortable in but one that you would also enjoy being photographed in. As your photographer, I like to take photos of the entire elopement day so that you can remember the full experience of your adventure elopement so this would mean that sometimes we will be taking pictures of the journey up. If you decide to go this route, be mindful of the bra you wear as tight-fitted sports bras can cause lines on your chest/back when you put your wedding outfit or dress on so you may want to forgo wearing one altogether if possible. After we are done taking photos, you can continue wearing your wedding attire on the way down to capture any photos that we may have missed on the journey up.

Option 2: Wear your wedding attire up the whole way with either hiking shoes or another comfortable pair of shoes of your choice. This is a fun and beautiful way to capture your elopement journey in all its glory!

With both options, I highly recommend wearing hiking boots or shoes. You can always change your shoes once you reach the top, or continue wearing your hiking boots for a true adventure elopement experience. Just be sure the shoes that you wear are fully broken in!

What to Pack for Your Adventure Elopement

Your elopement day is sure to be filled with lots of adventure and I always believe that it’s best to be prepared so you don’t have to worry about the small things and can simply sit back and enjoy the day! I’ve listed below a few additional items (outside of your main wedding attire, florals, etc) that I’ve found to be super helpful when it comes to going on an adventure elopement

• Water
• Snacks
• Hiking boots or shoes
• Comfortable backpack
• Flashlights / Headlamp
• Sunscreen
• Bug Spray
• First Aid Kit
• Tissues
• Bobby Pins / Safety pins
• Deoderant
• Travel dry shampoo
• Travel hair spray
• Small bag of touch-up makeup
• Small mirror for touch-up or makeup application
• Baby wipes – to wipe off any unwanted dirt/mud spots, and also sweat! If you will be hiking in an area that is very tropical or muddy, you might want to consider bringing an extra water jug with some paper towels.
• Towel – to dry off if you plan to jump in the water or in case it rains
• Seasonal items – hand warmers, wind breaker, jacket, rain poncho, wool socks

How to Pack Florals for Your Adventure Hike

Florals are some of the most fun parts of elopements and they provide a way to express your personality and are oftentimes, the only decor couples have at their adventure elopement. With everything mentioned above though, how do couples also manage to carry what can be delicate arrangements?

Depending on how long the hike is, you will want to ensure your flowers are getting enough water along the way to ensure they look as fresh as possible. One tip is to soak a rag in water and wrap it around the flower stems before sticking it into a waterproof dry bag. Then, you can either stick the flowers on top of your backpack with the zipper open (stems down, flowers up) or secure them on an outside pouch or pocket of your backpack. Then hike slow and steady all the way up to ensure they don’t get jostled too much and lose their shape.

Your florist may be able to provide you with additional tips for how to best transport your florals for your elopement so be sure to check with them as well!

Enjoy the Journey

That’s it! You’re ready for your adventure elopement and all that’s left is to relax and enjoy the day! Your elopement is a ‘once in a lifetime’ experience so soak in every moment. On the hike, try not to think about just making it to the top the whole time. Slow down, take a breather, and enjoy your surroundings with your loved one. Let go of all the imperfections and expectations. Yes, I know we just went over a bunch of tips, but don’t stress out if your hair gets too frizzy, your curls start falling down, or your makeup smudges. Rather, focus on creating memories of the day exactly how it unfolds, rather than forcing things to happen. After all, this is your day and your story, so live it as it happens because those may just be the memories that you look back on and cherish most!

Are you planning an adventure elopement? Let me know your favorite adventure elopement tips in the comments below! And, if you’re looking for an elopement photographer to go on your adventure hike elopement, I know just the one (wink, wink.)