Here’s the thing about microwedding and elopement ceremonies: there’s no “right” way to do them. Some couples walk down a pinecone-lined aisle in the woods. Others say their vows knee-deep in a stream or on a mountain overlook. Some invite a handful of people. Others keep it completely private.
And every single one is beautiful.
What matters most? That it feels like yours.
What is an Elopement Ceremony?
An elopement ceremony is the heart of your wedding day. It’s the moment you exchange vows, rings, and that “holy crap, we’re married” kiss. The big difference from a traditional wedding is that YOU get to decide exactly how it looks, feels, and flows.
It could be a five-minute vow exchange on a mountaintop at sunrise, or a thirty-minute lakeside ceremony with your closest people. It could include readings, music, handfasting, or absolutely nothing but your voices.
Micro Wedding Ceremony Ideas
If you’re leaning toward a micro wedding, you have room to mix tradition with flexibility. A few ideas I’ve seen couples love:
- Nature Aisles: Carve a path through the woods lined with pinecones, flowers, or lanterns (but remember to Leave No Trace!).
- Unique Entrances: Walk each other down the aisle, or enter together with your dog carrying the rings.
- Personal Touches: Include a friend or family member reading a poem, or weave in a cultural or symbolic ritual.
- Interactive Moments: Pass the rings around for a “ring warming,” have guests share short blessings, or toast right after the kiss.
How Does an Elopement Ceremony Work?
The short version: however you want it to.
Here’s the longer one…
Before your day, I’ll meet you at your ceremony spot. We’ll walk through it together, feel where the light falls, and talk about every step so you’re never left wondering what now?
Want to walk each other down the aisle? Hell yes.
Want your dog to carry the rings? I’ll cry and get the shot.
Want a loved one to officiate? I’ll help them know where to stand and when to pause so the photos are perfect.
On the day itself, we’ll build in a moment to breathe before starting — hand off bouquets, smooth dress trains, settle into each other’s presence — and then you dive in.
How Long is an Elopement Ceremony?
Most elopement ceremonies are short and sweet, usually around 10–20 minutes, but it’s totally up to you. Some couples keep it to vows, rings, and a kiss. Others incorporate readings, symbolic rituals, or moments with guests that stretch the time a bit longer.
The beauty is, you’re not tied to a strict schedule. If you want to pause mid-vows to laugh, cry, or watch the wind ripple the lake — you can.
Pro Officiant or Loved One?
You’ve got options. A professional officiant can bring structure, calm, and know-how (especially when it comes to paperwork). But a loved one brings intimacy and connection that just hits differently.
If you go with someone close to you, make sure they:
- Practice what they’re going to say (don’t fully wing it)
- Know where to stand so you’re not hidden in photos
- Take a beat after the kiss so I can capture the cheers, happy tears, and YESSS energy
And if you’re planning to write your own vows, I’ve got a full guide to make it easier, more personal, and way less overwhelming — How to Write Your Own Vows for an Elopement.
Give Yourself Time to Enjoy the Moment
One of my biggest ceremony tips? Build in buffer time. Not just for traffic or nerves, but for the moment. To breathe. To feel the air on your skin. To look at each other and think: We’re really doing this.
That pause before walking down the aisle or stepping up to your spot is magic. It grounds you in a way nothing else can.
After the Vows — Don’t Rush Off
It’s tempting to rush into portraits, but I always encourage couples to linger. Hug your people, if you’re bringing guests. Pop champagne and share snacks. Steal a quiet moment together. Let it sink in that you’re now married before jumping into the next part of the day.
Consider an Unplugged Elopement Ceremony
If you’re inviting guests, think about asking them to put away their phones and just be there with you. No screens between you and the people you love. I’ll be there capturing it all (beautifully, I promise!), including that first kiss and the walk back down the aisle. Your guests can truly be fully present in the moment instead of looking at you through their screens.
Hold Hands (Seriously)
It sounds simple, but you’d be surprised how often couples end up with a gap between them during vows. Holding hands changes the energy. It keeps you connected and grounded, and it shows in the photos.
Your Ceremony, Your Way
Whether it’s just the two of you on a mountaintop or you’re surrounded by your closest people, your elopement ceremony should reflect you — your connection, your story, and your way of celebrating.
If you’re ready to start planning, below’s a quick guide to keep the process simple and stress-free!
Quick Elopement Ceremony Planning Checklist
1. Choose Your Ceremony Style: Whether it’s the two of you or you’d like to bring guests.
2. Pick Your Dream Elopement Ceremony Location
3. Decide on Ceremony Length: Think whether you’d like it to be short & sweet with just rings, vows, and a kiss, OR a longer one with readings, rituals, music, etc.
4. Select Your Officiant: Decide whether you’d like a professional officiant or have a loved one officiate.
5. Decide How You Want to “Walk In” (Together, separately, with a pet, etc.)
6. Add Personal Touches (cultural rituals, readings from friends or family, guest blessings, etc.)
7. Build in Buffer Time
8. Decide on an Unplugged Elopement Ceremony Policy
9. Plan Post-Ceremony Moments: Linger for hugs, champagne, snacks, and steal a quiet minute together before portraits and adventures.
10. Remember to Stay Connected: Hold hands during vows to keep the energy grounded (and it looks beautiful in photos).
Let’s Get You Married in Lake Tahoe!
Hi, I’m Amanda, your Lake Tahoe elopement photographer and planner. My job is to help you design your elopement day, including the ceremony, that feels personal, relaxed, and exactly right for you… and then document it beautifully.
Check out my portfolio here, and when you’re ready – send me a message here! I cannot wait to hear from you!
