5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Eloping

When I planned our destination elopement, I spent over a year dreaming up every little detail. We didn’t have a single guest-it was just the two of us, halfway across the world-but I wanted it to feel truly special. In the end, it didn’t matter where our feet stood; what mattered was that we were committing our lives to each other after more than six wonderful years together.

I had an incredible photographer and a professional hair and makeup artist booked for the day. And while it truly was an absolute dream, there were a few lessons I learned along the way that I can’t wait to share…especially for anyone considering an elopement or intimate destination wedding.

1. Book more time than you think you’ll need with your photographer.

Our photographer was beyond amazing-so much so that we’re planning to use him again when we return to Thailand! But on the day of, we were short on time and ended up (literally) running through the island of Koh Samui to capture everything we wanted. I wish we’d booked a longer package so we could relax and enjoy the moments without feeling rushed. Those memories deserve to unfold naturally, not on a timer.

2. Start getting ready earlier than you think.

This one caught me off guard. I assumed getting ready would take about as long as it does on any other day — I couldn’t have been more wrong! I’d never had my makeup professionally done, and the last time I had “event hair” was for my senior prom. Bridal hair and makeup is a whole different level of artistry, and to make sure I looked (and felt) my best, I should have built in more time. Luckily, my hair and makeup artist and photographer were a husband-and-wife duo, so communication was seamless and they worked beautifully together. If you can, book vendors who already have a great working relationship — it makes a world of difference, especially when planning from across the globe.

3. Don’t underestimate the power of florals.

In the planning stage, I didn’t think much about flowers. I figured I could pick something simple once we arrived — and I did! My husband and I walked into town and bought blooms from a small local shop, then I made my own bouquet. It’s such a sweet memory… but looking back, I wish I had splurged on a professional arrangement. The bouquet appears in nearly every photo, and having one designed by a florist would have added a touch of polish and personality to the images.  A wooden bouquet would be my recommendation- beautiful, travels well, and lasts forever!  

4. Create a meaningful first dance moment.

We danced barefoot in the ocean at sunset-the most magical scene I could have imagined. But I do wish we’d chosen a specific song to play in that moment. Music has a way of tying memories to emotion, and having “our song” playing as we danced would have made it even more special. No guests, no fanfare just the two of us, starting our marriage to a soundtrack that would always bring us back to that day.

5. Invest in videography. Trust me on this one.

This is the one thing I truly regret. Because it was just us, I assumed we wouldn’t need a video, that photos and memories would be enough. But there’s something magical about seeing your day in motion: hearing your laughter, the ocean waves, the vows spoken aloud. I journaled everything, and our photos are stunning, but I would give anything to have those moving moments captured forever.

Looking back...

I realize now that I treated our elopement as something “smaller” than a traditional wedding-when in reality, it was every bit as meaningful and deserving of celebration. No matter how you choose to say “I do,” your day deserves the same love, attention, and care as any grand ceremony. Go the extra mile, even if it’s just the two of you. Because those memories are worth it-every single one

At Envyzion Events, I spearhead our Elopement and Microwedding division! I'd love to help you plan your dream wedding - let's talk.