How do I get started planning my New Jersey elopement?

If you’re wondering, “Where do I even start?,” it’s completely normal. Creating a plan based on your values is always the best way to start. What do you value the most on a wedding day? Ask yourself what matters the most to you:

• Time management
• Space away from people
• Being outside in nature
• Creating a unique experience
• Doing a wedding day that feels like you
• Low stress and low pressure day
• Freedom of time

Do any of these strike a cord with you? What is the most important parts you envision for your wedding day? Once you decide, you can start the planning process!

Planning your New Jersey Elopement

Now the beginning of the planning stages start. Choosing WHERE you want to elope is quite literally the most important part. This will dictate the aesthetic of your shoot, the vibes, the feelings and how the day unfolds. Beach? Mountains? Open field? Garden? Choosing the location can be exciting and stressful at the same time. Think about what you want your elopement day to LOOK like and FEEL like. Do you envision a breeze and the smell of the ocean? Are you envisioning blooming flowers surrounding you? Do you envision frolicking in an open field and the woods? Do you want more of a blue color palette or a green color palette? Asking yourself these questions can help you decide on a beach theme, or a garden theme, or a woods theme. The day can be exactly what you want to make of it.

Once this is decided, we start the permit process for the location. Most areas in New Jersey require a permit to have your wedding ceremony there. It can vary based on the number of guests you have on the day of. I help you with this part! Normally I check on the county website that the location is in and call them to make sure I have the full understanding for what is required the day of. Most permits you have to pay the fee and book your day through the online form and then you’re all set!

Having fun with the theme and aesthetic

This is the CREATIVE part! Have fun with this, explore your dream aesthetics, visions and themes for your special day. Are you obsessed with vintage aesthetics and golden hour light? Does it make you super excited for your veil shots and have a list of super chic and editorial poses? Are you over the moon about the flat lay detail shots and you have a custom invitation suite that matches the colors of the day? Think about all the posing, photo ideas, creativity, and art that you love and we can add it all to a Pinterest board! This way we can brainstorm what you like and what you gravitate towards before your big day happens!

Past elopement examples for reference

Harvey Cedars, LBI, NJ

For the beach lovers and the ocean aesthetic lovers! Think of a soft blue, beiges, soft greens, cremes and whites for your color palette. Getting an beachy Airbnb near the ocean makes for a great getting ready space!

Mount Tammany, NJ

Are you more adventures and not afraid to sweat a bit on your day? There is a 30 minute hike up to the first overlook on Mount Tammany where you can get beautiful views of the Delaware River behind you. This photo spot is immersed in the woods on the mountain and truly gives the full “adventure elopement” vibe!

Cross Estate Gardens, NJ

Looking for a fairytale garden vibe? A secret rendezvous amongst the flowers with the love of your life? Cross Estate Gardens has flowers blooming at various parts of the year. This is a great option for a dreamy garden elopement day.

Allaire State Park, NJ

Looking for more of a classic elopement style with a chapel but also space to explore naure? Allaire State Park has a chapel for couples to get married and then surrounding woods areas for more photos.

Atlantic City, NJ

Spunky, fun and energetic… is an Atlantic City elopement day. Do you love the beach and the boardwalk vibes combined? Atlantic City offers a variety of photo opportunities on the beach and on the boardwalk. If you’re comfortable with navigating crowds and embracing the chaos, this could be a great option for you!

Thompson Park, Jamesburg, NJ

For the greenery, frolicking in the field loving girlies! Thompson Park is my favorite place and has so many options for photos running around in green field. There is also a water area, railroad, a big hill, fields, and grasses depending on the time of year for different backdrop options.

Point Pleasant Beach, NJ

Another jersey beach is Point Pleasant and can offer so much seclusion and peace during the off season. Make it your own special day with a romantic tablescape. Incorporate a bike for a vintage look. Anything is possible and I highly recommend doing what feels exciting to you!

Laurelwood Arboretum, NJ

This is one of the best locations in New Jersey for the nature lovers. Laurelwood Arboretum has so much space and plant life to explore. There are flowers, open fields, a pond with a waterfall, a bridge, a gazebo, and so many unique plants and trees. I highly recommend this location to the couples that love variety and options for many photo spots on the grounds.

Are you ready to elope?

Does this feel like you? Do these photos give you butterflies with excitement!? Plan your elopement with me through the booking form here!

Ally Frances elopements

Curious to see more? Blogs of Ally Frances elopements are found here.