One of the best parts about choosing to elope is how flexible and customizable your day can be. Elopement timelines are some of the easiest to adjust and build around your vision. Whether you’re planning an intimate sunrise ceremony or a laid-back sunset vow exchange, there’s so much freedom in how your day unfolds.
Below are a few sample timelines that have worked beautifully for past couples. Keep in mind—these are just examples. When you book with me, I’ll help you create a timeline that’s entirely tailored to you and your story. We work with the light, your priorities, and your people to design something that fits just right. (And yes—sunrise and sunset timing will shift depending on daylight savings!)
✨ Example Elopement Timeline #1: The Classic
Best for: Couples looking for a short, simple, and sweet day
Photography Coverage: 2 Hours (Basic Package)
This timeline is by far my most popular option for couples who want a laid-back, no-fuss elopement with just the essentials. We keep things calm and easy so you can enjoy every moment.
Sample Timeline:
- 12:00 PM – Hair & Makeup Begins
- 2:00 PM – Get Dressed
- 4:00 PM – Begin Driving to Ceremony Location
- 5:00 PM – Media Coverage Begins
- 5:00 PM – Arrive at Ceremony Location
- 5:15 PM – Ceremony Begins
- 5:30 PM – Family & Friends Photos
- 5:45 PM – Guests Head Out / Couple Portraits Begin
- 6:30 PM – Couple Portraits Wrap Up
- 7:00 PM – Day Complete
Note: Behind the scenes, I’ll be handling vendor pickups (flowers, cake, charcuterie, champagne, etc.), checking the weather, and staying in communication with you about any last-minute changes. My goal is to keep things flowing smoothly so you don’t have to stress about a thing.
✨ Example Elopement Timeline #2: The Storyteller
Best for: Couples who want a little more storytelling and coverage throughout the day
Photography Coverage: 3 or 4 Hours
This option is ideal if you want getting-ready photos, first looks, or coverage at two different locations (like a cozy cabin and a scenic ceremony spot). More time = more moments captured.
📸 3-Hour Media Coverage Timeline
- 2:00 PM – Hair & Makeup Begins
- 3:30 PM – Get Dressed / Media Team Arrives
- 3:45 PM – Photograph Details (dress, rings, florals)
- 4:00 PM – First Look + A Few Portraits
- 4:15 PM – Drive to Ceremony Location (Location #2)
- 5:00 PM – Arrive at Ceremony Location
- 5:15 PM – Ceremony Begins
- 5:30 PM – Family & Friends Photos
- 5:45 PM – Couple Portraits Begin
- 6:30 PM – Coverage Ends
📸 4-Hour Media Coverage Timeline
- 12:00 PM – Hair & Makeup Begins
- 2:00 PM – Get Dressed
- 2:30 PM – Media Team Arrives
- 2:45 PM – Photograph Details
- 3:00 PM – First Look + Couple Portraits
- 3:30–4:30 PM – Drive to Ceremony Location
- 5:00 PM – Arrive at Ceremony Location
- 5:15 PM – Ceremony Begins
- 5:30 PM – Family & Friends Photos
- 5:45 PM – Couple Portraits Begin
- 6:30 PM – Coverage Ends
✨ Example Elopement Timeline #3: The Adventurer
Best for: Couples dreaming of a hiking elopement with epic views and unforgettable moments
Photography Coverage: 4+ Hours
This one’s for the wild-hearted! A hiking elopement offers the chance to say your vows surrounded by nature—mountain peaks, waterfalls, or forest trails. Depending on the length and difficulty of the hike, we’ll adjust the timeline to fit your specific location and fitness level. You’ll want to plan for slower pacing, rest breaks, and time to soak it all in.
⛰️ Sample Hiking Elopement Timeline (Moderate Sunset Hike)
- 10:00 AM – Hair & Makeup Begins
- 12:00 PM – Pack up gear, snacks, and wedding attire
- 12:30 PM – Begin Driving to Trailhead
- 1:30 PM – Arrive at Trailhead / Begin Hike
- 3:00 PM – Reach Summit / Change into Wedding Attire
- 3:30 PM – First Look + Portraits
- 4:30 PM – Ceremony Begins (Golden Hour!)
- 5:00 PM – Champagne Pop + Adventure Snack Break
- 5:30 PM – Additional Couple Portraits
- 6:00 PM – Begin Hiking Down
- 7:30 PM – Arrive Back at Trailhead
- 8:00 PM – Wrap Up / Optional Night Portraits with Headlamps or Lanterns
Pro Tips for Hiking Elopements:
- Wear hiking boots for the trail and bring dress shoes for photos
- Bring layers—weather can shift quickly at higher elevations
- We’ll carry all photography gear and any extras you’ve added (like florals, vow books, and snacks)
- Weekday elopements = fewer crowds and more privacy
- Some locations require permits—we’ll handle the details and guide you through that process
Final Thoughts
Remember, your elopement timeline doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. Want to have a private morning coffee on the porch before getting ready? Let’s build that in. Dreaming of a post-ceremony picnic at a scenic overlook? I’ll pack the champagne.
Whatever your vision is, I’m here to help you shape a day that feels true to who you are—relaxed, meaningful, and totally you.
Ready to plan your dream day?
Let’s chat through what matters most to you and start designing your elopement timeline together. 💛
Kosky 
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