How to Elope in Washington
Expert Planning Resources + Tips for Washington Elopements
Step-by-Step Guide to Eloping in Washington
If you’re early in the process, start here. This page is a simple roadmap—then you can dive deeper into the guides below as you need them.
1. Start thinking about scenery + vibes
Decide what matters most: mountains, coast, forest, easy access vs. privacy, sunrise vs. sunset. Not sure yet? Shart here: Where to Elope
2. Pick a date + location (we can help)
Tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll help figure out the when and where. We’ll share our expert insights on seasonality, weather, crowds, permits, and the best locations that work well for elopements.
P.S. You don’t need a date before reaching out to us. In fact, you’ll have the highest chance of booking if you are flexible, especially for peak season June-October.
3. Decide on guests (or keep it just-us)
Guest count changes everything: ceremony options, accessibility, timing, and how far you can realistically roam. We’ve got guides to help you decide and plan for either.
4. Start booking — lodging, travel, vendors
Once you have the when and where locked in, you can start booking flights, lodging, and any (optional) vendors you want to help out for your day, like a hair and makeup artist, florist, private chef, or musicians. We recommend hiring your photographer first—we can help you through all of these steps!
5. Build an itinerary that feels like you
Think of this less like a “timeline” and more like an itierary, with room for adventure, sight-seeing, and activities. We’ll help you map it out around great light, best ceremony locations, mealtimes, least crowds — and help time it all so you don’t feel rushed.
6. Shop for attire + get your packing list together
Elopement-ready attire and accessories, hiking + adventure gear, food + drink supplies, plus any fun details or decorations you want to include. A lot of which you can borrow from our Trading Post! Read here for more on what and how to pack.
7. Plan ceremony + apply for your WA marriage license
Your ceremony is the heart of your elopement — and the great thing about eloping is that this can look like whatever you want it to be, and you can have a ceremony anywhere. More on officiants + witnesses here, plus notes on ceremony logistics.
8. Get on out there!
A few final preparations: check the weather, pack your bags, and get out there. Have an amazing adventure!
