15 tips and packing list
- preparation for your adventure elopement

Best elopement location in Switzerland Europe for a mountain elopement

Lavaux-photographe-Malin-Ovesson

By MALIN OVESSON MEGDICHE - destination wedding & elopement photographer

Congratulations on your upcoming mountain elopement! 
Being prepared is the best way to make your mountain elopement successful! Read this guide carefully and make sure you cover everything. This is all general and you need to adapt it so that makes sense to your specific elopement day. But here are some tips to help you prepare to make your elopement the most epic day of your life. 

Plan in and fill your day with meaningful activities

1. Reading vows

“Reading vows” may seem obvious to some, but it doesn’t happen in every wedding. I believe that this is one of the most important parts of your elopement day. These are promises you make to each other, which will make your day more memorable and special. 

You can even consider doing small, “mini vows” throughout the day. Think of special moments you shared together that you’ll never forget, moments that were meaningful to you, and moments that you couldn’t have gone through without each other. Share funny things you’ve done together. When you’re enjoying the view, share a little story, or when your partner least expects it, tell them the three things you love most about them. Just let your imagination flow!

2. Exchange rings

I guess this point is obvious. You can also exchange other things, such as gifts, with each other.

3. Read letters from close family and/or friends

When planning your elopement day, it’s important to consider ways to include the special people in your life, even if they cannot physically be present. One way to do this is by asking your dearest friend or family member to write a note for you to read on your wedding day. Not only is this a touching and sentimental gesture, but it also gives those you love a chance to be a part of your special day. Of course, this idea works best if you have a strong and positive relationship with your dearest, but it’s an excellent way to pay tribute to a loved one who cannot be in attendance.

Couple reading letters from family in an epic location:

elopement-activity- Lauterbrunnen

4. Picnic

Nothing beats a romantic picnic amidst beautiful scenery, be it in the midst of green grass or soft, white snow. When preparing for a picnic, it may seem like a daunting task, but trust me, the result is so worth it. Not only will you and your partner enjoy a delicious meal, but the romantic atmosphere will make everything even more special

winter-elopement-picnic

5. Spotify-list

Having some music at your elopement is a wonderful way to set the mood for the occasion and create memories that will last a lifetime. To make the most of your music experience, we recommend that you bring along your favorite Spotify playlist. This will help you set the tone for the entire ceremony and ensure that you have the perfect soundtrack for your special day. Playing YOUR special song will add so much to your day. 

In order to avoid incurring any roaming costs, I suggest that you download the playlist onto your phone.

6. Surprise your partner (but inform me about your plan)

On your elopement day, there are so many wonderful ways to surprise your partner and make the occasion even more special. Don’t be afraid to get creative and think outside of the box when it comes to showing your love and affection. Consider serenading your partner with a beautiful song that you’ve written just for them. If music isn’t your strong suit, you can always hire a talented musician to help you out. Another great idea is to give your partner a thoughtful and heartfelt gift that they will cherish forever. You could also hire a private chef to prepare a delicious barbecue feast just for the two of you. And don’t forget about the power of the written word – a simple love note can be incredibly powerful and meaningful. Whatever you decide to do, just remember to keep the focus on celebrating your love and commitment to each other.

7. Special wedding rituals

Humans have a long history of engaging in various rituals for a multitude of reasons. Some people turn to spirituality to seek solace and peace, and it is not uncommon for them to perform certain rituals to feel more connected to a higher power. Others believe in superstitions and feel that performing certain actions can bring them good luck or ward off negative energies.

Regardless of one’s motivation, rituals have an important place in human culture. They offer us a sense of structure, purpose, and meaning that can be hard to find in an increasingly chaotic world. Whether it’s lighting a candle to create a peaceful atmosphere or tying your arms together with a scarf to symbolize unity, rituals can provide a powerful sense of connection and belonging. So if you’re looking for something special to help ground you in these challenging times, why not explore the world of rituals? Who knows, you might just find something that resonates with you on a deep level.

Examples of rituals – salt or sand pouring (perhaps using the sand where we are), tieing the arms together with a rope or scarf, planting a tree, a rose exchange or ringing a bell as a sign of commitment

In some places (f.ex in Zermatt) you can lock a key-lock with your names to a fence. 

At the end of the elopement you can write a love letter about your elopement day to each other and seal it and keep it and read it for the 5 or 10 years wedding anniversary. Perhaps you want to place it in a time capsule. 

elopement-ritual
ritual-elopement
Always make sure that you leave NO trace. In this case, we had the lantern on a thin rope, and we could pull it back after its little tour to avoid creating wildfires or polluting our planet.

Things that will make your elopement more enjoyable

1. Bring a transparent umbrella if there's even a slight risk of rain.

When it comes to outdoor elopements, unexpected weather changes can present a challenge, but there's no need to compromise on style and fun. Rather than risk getting soaked by the rain and ruining your perfectly coiffed hair, consider bringing a transparent umbrella which will not only protect you from the elements, but will also add a touch of elegance to your look.
With this must-have accessory, you can still enjoy the beauty of the outdoors and click amazing photos without worrying about the rain spoiling your plans. In fact, it can even add charm to your photos, creating a romantic ambience that will make your celebration even more memorable. So, don't let the weather dampen your spirits. Come prepared and make the most of every moment, come rain or shine!
rainy-elopement-switzerland

2. Proper hiking shoes (snow shoes in winter)

I don’t recommend anything else than real hiking boots or shoes and snow shoes for winter.  Period. Of course it depends on your elopement, but if there is any hiking or even walking in nature involved you will be regretting if you take something else. 
Wearing proper hiking boots or shoes can provide the necessary support and protection you need for your feet. They offer a rugged sole that can withstand rocky terrains, and waterproofness that can save you from getting wet or slipping on muddy paths. So, if you want to fully enjoy your outdoor adventures, make sure to prioritize getting the right footwear for the job.

 

Glacier-elopement-Interlaken

3. Lights - For a romantic sunset picnic and fun blue-hour photos

When it comes to adding that special touch to your picnic, there are so many options to choose from. Whether you prefer dazzling Christmas lights, classic lanterns, enchanting sparklers, practical head-lamps, cozy candles, enchanting light swords, or perhaps something else altogether, the possibilities are endless! 

By incorporating some unique lighting into your picnic set up, the evening is sure to become a truly magical experience. Not only will this enhance the romantic atmosphere, but it will also provide a playful opportunity for you and your wedding party to have a bit of fun as you play with the lights during the enchanting time of blue hour. With these charming elements in place, you’ll be able to create some truly amazing and one-of-a-kind wedding portraits that you’ll cherish for years to come.

oeschinensee-elopement

4. Vow books

Vow books are a special addition to your elopement. They look stunning in photos while also serving a practical purpose as a keepsake. By writing your vows in a book, you create a timeless item that holds heartfelt commitments and promises made on your special day. You can revisit your vows during difficult times and be reminded of the love that brought you together. You can use your vow book for vow renewals or special anniversaries, making it a treasured item that will always hold a special place in your heart.

reading-vows-elopement

6. A good backpack

A backpack can be a lifesaver when it comes to carrying all of your essentials, whether you’re headed out for a day elopement or with a sleepover.  There are many different types of backpacks to choose from, ranging from small daypacks to larger expedition packs, but regardless of the size or style, they all have one thing in common: the ability to help you carry your belongings with ease. With a spacious main compartment and several external pockets, you’ll be able to stash all of your must-have items for the day, from rings and vow books to warm clothes, champagne, and picnic provisions. And if you’re bringing along flowers, you can even attach them to the outside of the pack to keep them safe and secure during your day. You can also attach your “we eloped” banner on it! 

elopement-backpack

7. A "We eloped" banner

One way to enhance your elopement photos is by adding a “We eloped” banner to your shots. Not only will this banner add a sense of whimsy and personality to your photos, but it is also an easy DIY project that can be made with just a few materials. Moreover, capturing those memories whilst outdoors surrounded by natural beauty feels not only romantic but also adventurous. Passing hikers will notice your bold declaration and more than likely offer you cheers and heartfelt congratulations on your new commitment. So, whether you’re eloping on a mountaintop or in the woods, a “We eloped” banner is a fun and easy way to make your elopement even more special. 

You can also buy ready made ones. Here are banners in Etsy. 

8. Champagne (and cake)

When it comes to any celebrations, there’s nothing quite like popping open a bottle of bubbly like champagne, prosecco, or an alcohol-free sparkling wine.  In fact, I even suggest bringing along a couple of bottles with the `party` going on all day. it’s essential to stay hydrated, and it never hurts to have an extra bottle or two on hand.

For those who are really looking to make a splash (quite literally), spraying champagne is a tradition that always adds an extra bit of excitement to any celebration. Of course, there are a few tips keep in mind if you’re going to give it a try. Be sure to remove the cork carefully and hold on to it – you don’t want to litter! And when it’s time to let the fizzy goodness flow, just shake the bottle, hold your thumb on the hole, shake and let the spraying commence! For a complete “leave no trace” philosophy use a bottle of festive sparkling water for the spraying part

elopement-photographer-Interlaken

8. Adventure equipment

SUP-elopement-mountain-lake
If you are envisioning an elopement day filled with, or has a touch of exciting adventure sports, it is important to make sure you have all the necessary equipment for your chosen activity. 
For example, if stand up paddle boarding is on your itinerary, remember to pack the appropriate gear such as a paddle board, paddle, and any necessary safety equipment. 

It’s also a good idea to bring extra clothing just in case you end up getting wet or need to change after your activity. You don’t want to be caught out in the wilderness without the equipment you need to fully enjoy your elopement day. 
So plan ahead, pack smart and take advantage of the opportunity to make your elopement a truly unforgettable experience.

Packing list - Hiking elopement

Legal document/pen (if needed)
Dress / veil / Suit / shirt / vest
Underwear / socks
Hiking boots (water proof)
Make up, Jewellery, hairpins,  accessories, curling iron etc. 
Tie, belt, cufflinks
Small hand held mirror, powder for touchups 

Wrinkle spray
Trail map

Vow books / “we eloped” banner
Ritual objects (ex. bells, roses, candles, gifts etc.)
Spotify list

If you are planning to hike up or down in the dark:
Headlamps / Christmas lights / sparklers / lighter..
Warmer clothes

Passport/wallet/phone (with roaming), charging

Sunscreen (the sun is MUCH stronger on altitude)
Sun protection (hat, glasses)
Pain killers 
allergy pills / medication 
Blister band aid 

Any equipment needed for the activities chosen

To get the day before: 
Champagne (or alcohol free)
Picknick and snacks 
Cake (pre ordered)
Tea or hot wine in a thermos (to warm up) 
Floral bouquet (pre ordered)
 
To check: 
Weather forecast
Trail status 

 

Winter/spring/autumn elopement – 

Snow boots / wool socks
Thick nude fleece leggings (or white)
Earmuffs/gloves/beanies 
Faux fur jacket / shoulder warmer
Wool under layers 
Hand, toe & body warmers

 

switzerland elopement

What are the last preps?

At this point we have since some time probably set the full elopement timeline and everything is likely booked since some time.
 

1 week before  

– Go through the time plan to make sure everything still work and that everything is prepared
– Check in with all vendors that  they are on track with the plan 
– Order flowers & cake etc. ( if it’s not done already ) 
– Check weather status. Act if needed 
– Coordinate with your partner and planner/photographer. Make sure that you are on the same page about the day’s plan, including the ceremony and any other activity that you have planned. 
– Make sure you sleep well to be fully ready for the adventure of your life. Maybe do any beauty treatments that you envisioned to be the very best version of you.

3 days before 
– Check weather status and change planning if needed 

1 day before 
– Check trail and weather status and change planning if needed 
– Pick up/buy/prepare everything needed – flowers, cake, picnic,  champagne, snacks, Thermos with hot drinks
– Make sure you have packed everything needed.
– Adapt your packing to the current weather forecast but still plan for unexpected weather.

Which wedding dress should I get for my elopement?

Which dress should I get for my elopement? 

Theoretically you could wear just about any wedding dress. 

But.. think it through, how comfortable do you want to be? How warm do you need to be? How easy should it be to pack? Do you want/need to hike in it? How much do you want it to flow? 

Generally you can say that mermaid dresses will restrict you and are not the best elopement dresses and that dresses with a big “skirt” will give you more freedom to move around

The most important is to feel confident in your dress! 

So, I will give you some examples and I will explain why they could make a good elopement dress

 

elopement-switzerland

Wedding dress for hiking elopement's.

While it may seem like an impractical choice at first, hiking in a dress can actually be a fun and unique experience. Even though it may be a little uncomfortable, there are some tips that can help make it more comfortable. It is practical to choose the right type of dress for hiking. For example, it may be better to avoid a strapless dress, as it may restrict your movement and make you less flexible. I did have brides with strapless dresses so if it’s really comfortable it may work. 

A dress with a train may not be practical as it can get caught easily and may be more difficult to manage during the hike. However, if you do want the flowy effect without a train, you can always opt for an extra shoulder veil that can fly in the wind as you hike or kiss. Any dress with a lot of flow and ball gown style dresses just looks amazing in big landscapes. 

If you absolutely want a mermaid dress it’s probably better to carry it up and get dressed when you have arrived to your ceremony spot. 

If you want avoid it to look dirty (although that can add a fun elopement touch to your photos) a coloured dress may be a good choice. 

lgbt-gay-photographer-Switzerland

Wedding dress and accessories for winter elopement's.

For winter elopements I really recommend to wear a long dress with long sleeves so that you can wear layers and body warmers underneath. 

Here is a  dress example 
And a budget dress example

A faux fur is great to have. Also, bring white ear muffs, a beanie, and gloves. The weather can get extremely cold, and you wouldn’t want your wedding day ruined because of feeling cold. Snow boots are an absolute must! Forget about any other shoes.

Read more about how to prepare for a winter elopement

winter-elopement-dress

Obs! All links are just examples. Do check if it’s something that would fit you. Also check on the 2d hand market to find amazing stuff for a fraction of the full price. 

MORE SWITZERLAND WEDDING INSPIRATION:

Matterhor-wedding-photography

How to prepare for a winter elopement

Read more tips and ideas of how to stay warm and prepare for a winter (and spring and autumn) elopement here.

båtbröllop-skåne

Time line examples

Here you can read more about timelines and the planning of the day

You might also be interested in:

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This Post Has 2 Comments

  1. Dee

    Amazing advice and great tips to make an elopement special and unique! Excited for our upcoming Elopement.

  2. Danielle

    Great explanation of which dresses are good for eloping. Wouldn’t have thought about mermaid dresses being restrictive but it’s totally true.

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Best elopement wedding location and photographer in Switzerland - Bachalpsee Bachsee Interlaken Grindelwald Lauterbrunnen Murren Meilleur photographe mariage en Suisse Bästa elopement bröllopsfotografen i Sverige