An Honest Guide for Guests Attending a Modern Elopement
Elopements have come a long way from the days of running off to the courthouse or hopping on a plane to Vegas in secret. These days, elopements are all about intention—about creating a day that reflects the couple’s values, their relationship, and their deepest priorities.
If you’ve been invited to attend an elopement, you might be wondering… what exactly does that mean for you as a guest?
Maybe this is your first time attending a wedding like this—or maybe you’re used to traditional weddings with cocktail hours, DJ booths, and seating charts. Either way, I’ve got you. Let’s walk through what it actually looks like to be a guest at an elopement, and how you can best support your loved ones on one of the most meaningful days of their lives.
So, What Is an Elopement?
At its core, an elopement is a wedding day stripped down to the essentials: the couple, their commitment, and whatever (or whoever) matters most to them. It’s not about skipping out on tradition—it’s about being intentional with it.
Some elopements are just the couple and an officiant on a mountain peak. Others include a small group of family or friends. Some have sit-down dinners, while others celebrate with cake and champagne on a picnic blanket. There’s no one right way—it’s all about what feels right to them.
If You’re Invited, You Matter
Being invited to an elopement is incredibly special. You’re not just a guest—you’re part of a very small circle of people chosen to witness something sacred and personal. Your presence is felt deeply.
So even if things look and feel different from a traditional wedding day, know this: your support, flexibility, and love mean everything.
A Few Things to Know Before You Go
Here are a few helpful tips for attending an elopement and making the most of the experience—for you and for the couple:
📍 Location May Be Remote
Elopements often happen in beautiful, natural spaces—mountaintops, forests, fields, cabins, or scenic overlooks. This could mean driving into a national park, carpooling, walking a short trail, or even hiking in.
What to do:
- Wear comfortable shoes and layers. Think function and style.
- Ask about bathroom access (sometimes nature is the only option!)
- Be prepared for a bit of adventure!
⏰ Timelines Are Flexible (And Often Sunset or Sunrise)
Many couples plan their ceremony around the best lighting for photos—like golden hour at sunset or a misty mountain sunrise.
What to do:
- Be on time. These events are intimate, so late arrivals can be disruptive.
- Go with the flow—weather or location changes can happen!
📷 Photography is Intimate and Intentional
The couple likely hired a photographer (hi, it’s me 👋) to document the day with care. We aim to capture real moments, deep connections, and natural joy.
What to do:
- Stay present and avoid taking photos during the ceremony unless invited to by the couple.
- If you’re included in portraits, trust the photographer’s direction!
- Once they say ‘I do,’ don’t hold back—hug ‘em, kiss ‘em, high five ‘em! Just be your full, happy self around the couple so I can grab those real, joy-filled moments.
What to Expect During the Ceremony
Elopement ceremonies are beautifully simple—and sometimes a little unconventional.
There probably won’t be a set aisle or rows of chairs. Instead, the couple may ask you to gather around and create a natural aisle as they walk in. The ceremony might be held on a mountain overlook, off the side of a road, or tucked into a forest clearing. That means space may be limited, and it might be windy, loud, or a little wild. Embrace it. This is part of what makes elopements magical.
A few tips:
- Be open to the experience—it’s okay if it looks different from a traditional ceremony.
- Cozy up to your friends and family. Don’t be afraid to stand close!
- The media team will be moving around to capture every angle—don’t be surprised if we gently shift or scoot around you.
- When the couple shares their first kiss: cheer, clap, hoot, and holler! There may only be 10 of you, but let it feel like 50—make the couple feel so celebrated and loved.
There really are no rules here—just lots of heart.
🧁 Don’t Expect a Traditional Reception
There may not be a big dinner, dance floor, or bouquet toss. But there could be charcuterie, homemade cake, a champagne toast, or even a bonfire.
What to do:
- Celebrate in whatever way the couple has planned.
- If you’re unsure what’s happening after the ceremony, just ask or check the couple’s invitation/guide.
- Bring your joy and good energy—they’ll feel it.
Sample Day-Of Elopement Timeline
Here’s an example of what an afternoon or sunset elopement in the Smokies might look like:
- 4:00 PM – Guests arrive at location
- 4:30 PM – First Look + Private Vows (couple only)
- 5:00 PM – Ceremony
- 5:30 PM – Group Photos
- 6:00 PM – Champagne + Cake Celebration
- 6:30 PM – Couple Adventure Photos
- 7:00 PM – Wrap Up
A few helpful notes:
- Many couples will ask guests to leave after group photos and meet them back at their cabin, Airbnb, or a local restaurant for a simple, laid-back celebration. Be sure to know the plan ahead of time and have the address saved—cell service can be spotty in the mountains!
- Bring water and snacks for yourself, especially if the location is remote.
Bonus points if you bring something for the couple.
Extra bonus points if you offer something to the media team. (Hi again, it’s me 🙋♀️)
Quick Etiquette Checklist
✅ Be on time and prepared for weather
✅ Dress comfortably for the setting (ask if unsure!)
✅ Let the couple lead the day—it’s likely less structured than a traditional wedding
✅ Be fully present—your support is the gift
✅ Take in the moment—it’s truly special to be there
Final Thoughts
Elopements are full of heart, and when you’re invited to one, you’re being asked to witness something incredibly personal. Whether you’re hiking to a mountaintop or gathering in a quiet cabin, the day is about love, connection, and presence.
Thank you for showing up, for being flexible, and for loving the couple well. It means more than you know.
📥 Want the full breakdown and checklist?
Download our free Elopement Guest Guide here—it’s everything you need to know to be the best guest ever for a wedding in the Smokies.
Kosky 
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