You’ve tossed the rulebook, skipped the 200-person guest list, and chosen an elopement because you want something intentional and full of joy. But here’s the thing most people overlook: the “getting ready” part of your day isn’t just filler time before the vows—it’s the secret sauce.
This is where your story begins. It’s where nerves turn into excitement, where you savor slow moments before the adventure unfolds, and where some of the most unexpectedly beautiful memories take shape. Let’s talk about why getting ready matters and how to make it your own.
Getting Ready Is for Everyone
This time isn’t just for brides. Grooms, non-binary peeps, and everyone in between deserve to feel celebrated and confident, too. I’ve seen guys schedule facials, light makeup, and intentional styling that makes them feel their best. Self-care isn’t “extra”! You deserve to feel confident, celebrated, and fully YOU.
Treat It Like a Ritual, Not a Photo Shoot
Think of getting ready as a ritual rather than a photoshoot. This is where the candid, soul-deep moments happen: laughter while zipping up boots, quiet reflection while fastening cufflinks, a shared toast before heading out the door. These moments aren’t staged—they’re the kind of honest, fleeting snippets that tell your story just as much as the vows do.
Choose the Right Hair & Makeup Artist
Choosing the right hair and makeup artist is huge. A seasoned pro isn’t just about lipstick or curls—they’re about peace of mind. They know how to work with nerves, timelines, and Tahoe’s ever-changing weather.
Bonus tip: hire a professional, not your best friend. Your bestie deserves to enjoy the day with you, not stress about touch-ups and timelines. A pro will have your back from start to finish.
Pick a Getting Ready Space That Matches Your Energy
Your accommodations will help to set the tone for the day, so choose a place you love, ideally, with good natural light (your photographer will thank you!). It can be a cozy Airbnb, a lakeside cabin, or a hotel suite with sweeping mountain views.
Also, your chosen place to stay is important, because it might double as the place where you share a post-elopement dinner, cake cutting, hot tub soak, or even be your Plan B if the weather changes.
Plan Buffer Time in Your Timeline
The last thing you want is to rush through your morning. Build in buffer time for coffee, breakfast, and just being present. Those few extra minutes let you breathe, ground yourself, and step into the day with calm energy instead of frantic stress.
This is also one of the best reasons to consider a full-day elopement!
Infuse Personal Touches
This is your moment to weave in the details that make your story unique. Exchange letters or gifts. Reread your vows—or scribble the final lines if inspiration strikes (here’s my guide on how to write your own vows). Flip through old photos together. These quiet moments ground you in the love you’re celebrating.
And don’t forget the meaningful details that make your day truly yours, like heirloom jewelry, custom cufflinks, or even fun socks! These touches create emotional anchors in your day and help me tell your love story!
Break Tradition: Get Ready Together
Who says you have to be separated all morning? One of my favorite spins on tradition is couples getting ready together. Imagine helping each other with ties, jackets, or jewelry. There’s something beautiful about beginning the day together instead of apart… It’s intimate, grounding, and freaking sweet. And it sets the tone for a day that’s entirely your own.
The Secret Sauce of Your Story
When you think about your elopement day, don’t underestimate this part of your timeline. Getting ready is where your story quietly begins. It’s not filler—it’s foundation. The calm before the wild, the grounding before the vows.
And when I’m there with you? I’ll make sure these moments are captured with the same intention and care as the epic mountaintop views. Because your story deserves to be remembered not just for how it looked, but for how it felt.
Want to see how I support couples beyond the camera? Check out what I do as your elopement planner! And when you’re ready – send me a message here and let’s plan your elopement together! I cannot wait to hear from you!
