Where to elope
A comprehensive Guide
The World Is Yours to Explore
WHERE WILL YOU DECIDE TO SAY “I DO?”
We’re lucky to live in one of the most beautiful places in the country (and in our opinion, the world), so there’s no shortage of amazing elopement spots to uncover. We’re constantly scouting new locations and searching for hidden gems out in the wilderness. And you’re not limited to the Northeastern United States–you can tie the knot anywhere in the country, and even cross oceans to find the perfect fit. But with a million places to choose from, where do you decide to say “I do?”
So many of our couples are looking for help when it comes to picking the right location for their dream elopement, and we always give the same advice:
choose a place that makes you and your partner happy
That’s the most important thing!
And don’t stress too much–when you find the best spot, you’ll know it.
Our best tips for
Choosing your elopement location
Envision Your Perfect Day
The beauty of elopements is that they’re totally customizable to your and your partner–no two days ever look the same! It’s best to be on the same page about what you’re envisioning before choosing where you’ll elope, because the location you choose will set the tone for your day. We encourage you to dream big, and really take the time to consider what’s most important to you.
Pick Your Season
Whether you’re looking to elope here in New England or anywhere else in the world, make sure you consider the seasons! The climate and season that you choose to elope in will play a big factor in the activities that you can add to your day, your wardrobe, and how easily you can get to certain spots.
Imagine The Views
Eloping in the great outdoors allows you to get married surrounded by the world’s most beautiful natural scenery. Are you dreaming of elopement photos surrounded by colorful fall foliage? Or do you imagine yourself saying your vows in front of a beautiful blue lake? Scenery plays an important role in choosing where to elope–you want to find a place that not only fits your desired aesthetic, but also makes you feel inspired and happy.
Incorporate Meaning
Is there a location that holds meaning for you and your partner? Did you visit somewhere together for the first time, or get engaged up in the mountains? If there’s a specific place that holds sentimental value within your relationship, that’s a good place to start. Of course, your elopement will be meaningful no matter what, but it’s always nice to have those full circle moments.
Decide If You Want Guests
One of the benefits to eloping is that you can choose to create any day you want. If you imagine tying the knot with your family and friends in tow, we can help you make it happen. And better yet, we can still create a feeling of intimacy while having celebrating with your guests. Inviting guests can limit your location options due to accessibility or whether they require strenuous terrain, so that knowledge should factor into the location you choose.
Think About Your Overall Experience
In all likelihood, your elopement will look completely different from other couples–and that’s a good thing! Focusing on the activities that excite you and your partner will create a day that you enjoy from start to finish, and don’t be afraid to use your imagination! Does your dream location allow you to explore the ocean, or do you dream of a horseback ride to your ceremony spot? The activities you choose to include will narrow down your location list and help you make a decision.
New Hampshire
The White Mountains
One of New Hampshire’s hot spots–especially during leaf peeping season (late September-mid October). It’s the home of the largest mountain in the state–Mount Washiongton–and some of the most breathtaking views on the east coast. With hikes that range in mileage and elevation, waterfalls, and lakes, this is an ideal location if you have a love of adventure.
The Lakes Region
The Lakes Region is a one of a kind place (and is where Kels grew up!). With stunning views of the lakes and mountains in the distance, it’s perfect if you’d love a hiking adventure or just a nice lake view for your elopement. This region also offers a variety of smaller venues perfect for hosting a dinner party with your family, or a cute little AirBnb to host your loved ones and elope all in one place.
The Seacoast
With gorgeous beaches, rocky jetties, and secluded parks, there’s no shortage of locations for your intimate vows. If you love the ocean and want to stay in New Hampshire, then the Seacoast is a great option for you. Water views are perfect for romantic elopement photos, and will offer a lot of varieties for your backdrop.
Maine
Acadia National Park
This park is a true treasure right here in New England, and so many people forget to visit. Acadia National Park is one of my absolute favorites–you get the mountains with beautiful hikes, the ocean, rock cliffs, and a stunning small town all in one place. There are so many places within the park to elope, whether you’re looking for something simple, something off the beaten path, or an even longer hike to a secluded spot.
Grafton Notch State Park
The state of Maine is essentially just one gigantic coastal spot. There are a ton of towns lining the ocean that boast epic views–perfect for an elopement if you ask us! Some of our favorite locations along the coast include Kennebunkport, Camden, Cape Elizabeth, or even Cutler (such a hidden gem!). It also lends itself perfectly to an adventurous elope–without the hike–by way of a private boat ride out to sea, or cozying up with a lobster dinner at the beach.
Coastal Maine
The state of Maine is essentially just one gigantic coastal spot. There are a ton of towns lining the ocean that boast epic views–perfect for an elopement if you ask us! Some of our favorite locations along the coast include Kennebunkport, Camden, Cape Elizabeth, or even Cutler (such a hidden gem!). It also lends itself perfectly to an adventurous elope–without the hike–by way of a private boat ride out to sea, or cozying up with a lobster dinner at the beach.
New York
The Mountains
Whether you choose to elope in the Catskills, the Adirondacks, or on a beautiful mountaintop in the Finger Lakes, your day will be surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Each location is stunning throughout all four seasons, and features incredible hikes, picturesque waterfalls, and adorable little towns to explore.
Minnewaska State Park
If you’re looking to escape New York City, but don’t want to stray too far, this park might be the perfect option for you. The Awosting Falls inside the park serves as a sweet and romantic backdrop, lending itself to an intimate ceremony followed by a hiking adventure.
Watkins Glen State Park
If you’ve got your heart set on an elopement surrounded by beautiful waterfalls, this is the spot for you. Located in the Finger Lakes region, you’ll have tons of space to explore. Adventure around the park and discover all of its natural hidden gems.
Letchworth State Park
Known as “The Grand Canyon of the East,” this park brings it when it comes to absolutely stunning views. The canyons, waterfalls, and hiking trails are unlike any other place in New York, and offer days and days of adventure. This is also a popular spot for other activities you may want to incorporate into your elopement experience, including white water rafting, kayaking, and swimming.
Vermont
Green Mountain National Forest
If you’re looking to create a full trip out of your elopement experience, then this could be a great spot to visit. The Green Mountain National Forest is a massive forest throughout the southern and middle part of Vermont, and it’s home to beautiful hikes with mountain views, waterfalls, and lakes. It’s also fairly close to the Finger Lake Mountains in New York, so you can add onto your itinerary with ease.
Mount Mansfield State Forest
If you’re familiar with the popular Vermont city of Burlington, head east and you’ll head into Mount Mansfield State Forest. There are a variety of state parks located within the forest, including Underhill State Park, Smuggler’s Notch State Park, Little River State Park, and Waterbury Center State Park. Talk about options! There are also ski resorts within the state forest if you’d love a wintry, sparkling snow elopement.
Killington
Another winter elopement location! Killington is known as a ski resort town, so it’s a great choice if you love the cold season. However, in the warmer months, there are also amazing activities available in the area. With a adventurous hike up the mountain, you’ll be rewarded with a truly stunning view.
Lake Champlain
We’ve photographed two intimate weddings at Lake Champlain–one in the north, and one in the south–and believe us, the beauty is breathtaking. There are plenty of parks in the area to choose from, and you can enjoy adventurous activities for your elopement right on the water.
Hey, I'm Kels!
The story of Kels Converse Photography began with a deep-seated passion for adventure and traveling the world. I was introduced to my new loves through my former corporate position, and it opened my eyes to all of the beautiful places on this Earth that we can experience. I eventually transitioned into elopement photography, prepared to take on this new challenge by tapping into my previous marketing and business expertise.
I knew that I could make not just a living with my camera, but I could make a life. A life complete with the freedom to create my own schedule, the fulfillment that comes with pursuing your dreams, and the confidence that comes with finding success.
Now, I’m here to serve you the best way I know how–with an encouraging smile, my elopement and business expertise, and a well-developed roadmap to success. Know that when you work with me, we’ll dream big dreams and bring your ultimate vision for your business–and life–to fruition.
The Guest Book
"I can't express how special Kelsey made our day."
From the day we had our first meeting, my now wife and I knew she was the perfect fit. We didn’t have a lot of direction to give and relied on Kelsey to basically create our day for us. She crushed it.
We had an amazing experience and felt relaxed and confident the entire time. We went to multiple locations that checked all of our boxes and then we were treated to ice cream (my fave!) at the end. Our album was perfect and turned around on an astonishingly fast timeline.
We looked through everything with Kelsey and could not have asked for a better outcome. I can’t express how special Kelsey made our day. I would give her 10 stars if I could.”
"Kelsey is truly there for her couples and loves what she does. 100000/10 would recommend kelsey."
Where do we even begin! Kelsey is beyond amazing. She is way more than just a photographer, she is a friend, therapist, wedding planner, dog whisperer and your biggest cheerleader!
She made us feel so sure and confident to make the tough decision to go small.Not only is her personality a dream to work with, her service is even better.
She is very responsive, professional and provided her opinion when needed. She had sneak peaks the NEXT day! We could not stop starting at them. On the album review, we did not expect to tear up and feel those same emotions we had on our day. Her work is unmatched, and we could not have imagined our wedding photos to be this awesome.
We're so thankful we got the opportunity to work with Kelsey. 10/10 recommend."
Kelsey was phenomenal to work with from start to finish, and beyond. Her help planning our day was invaluable. Our families were skeptical about an elopement style ceremony/day vs a traditional wedding/reception and Kelsey’s experience and perfectly crafted “guest guide” really helped them understand what WE wanted out of our day. Another thing that makes working with Kelsey unique is the way she dedicates her time entirely to her couples. Her photos are amazing, the talent she has at putting together an album that helps you relive the day when you look through it is unmatched.
As seen in...
Friends don't let friends plan alone!
To help you plan the epic elopement of your dreams, we’ve created a comprehensive catalog of resources for you to explore. Instead of starting from scratch, know that you have full access to our arsenal of advice and expertise. From learning about how to include your furry family members to how to prepare for a rainy elopement day and everything in between, we’ve got you covered.
Notes from the field
Flip through my camp journal
Have the time of your life
Surrounded By Natural Beauty
While this guide is a good starting point for choosing your dream elopement spot, know that we’re always here to help. We’d love to talk more about your vision, and work together to find perfect location for you and your partner.