How to Elope in Germany. Eloping in the Bavarian Alps
“YOU DON’T ALWAYS NEED A PLAN. SOMETIMES YOU JUST NEED TO BREATHE, TRUST, LET GO, AND SEE WHAT HAPPENS.” ~MANDY HALE
Historically speaking, to elope meant "to run away secretly with the intention of getting married usually without parental consent", but with time, things have changed and now the term refers to getting married in a small circle consisting of friends and family or without guest at all. It is an unconventional type of wedding where the focus is more on the couple and their intimacy. The most fun part about it? You can do it wherever you like in this world, there is no need for enormous budgets and it is a once in a lifetime experience, a true adventure that is worth documenting.
I specialize in small, intimate weddings and elopements and I can guide you through the process of getting married in Germany, Austria, Italy or anywhere in Europe. I am a hiker myself so I know the best places for a beautiful ceremony. The ceremony can be legal or just symbolical where you can exchange vows, rings and go on an adventure together. Here are some examples of locations where you could have an epic photo session. There are reachable either by car, train, gondolas and/or we need to hike to certain spots.
Where to elope in the mountains?
Garmisch and Allgäu in Germany (Bavaria/Baden-Württemberg)
Tyrol, Zillertal and the Salzkammergut in the Austrian Alps
The Dolomites in the Italian Alps
The Bernese Highlands in the Swiss Alps
Mont Blanc Massif in the French Alps
What do you need to elope?
Travel + Accommodation
Make travel arrangements/bookings whether you're going by car, bus, plane etc. Book an overnight accommodation (Hotel, Airbnb, Hut in the mountains)
Rings
Flowers
Wedding Dress and Suit
Tip: when it comes to your wedding dress, if you are eloping, I advise you to stay away from very elegant ballroom attire and go for a more flowy, boho/romantic dress because it photographs amazing especially if we have wind and it will also be more comfortable for you if we need to hike.
Hiking shoes + Backpack
Usually, if we are going to hike to a beautiful location, hiking gear is very important, so make sure you have all that you need with you.
Photography + Vendors
This is optional and includes a videographer, a wedding planner, officiant, singer etc.
Hair/Makeup
If you are not doing this yourself, make sure to book a make-up artist and a stylist in advance. If you need recommendations, I could gladly help you with that.
Make sure you read up on the legalities of where you're getting married; how long you need to register in advance, what ID and paperwork you need to bring, and whether the marriage will be valid in your jurisdiction.
If you’re planning an elopement, you have the option to have a civil marriage, a religious ceremony, or a symbolic ceremony.
My advice: go for the symbolic ceremony because this will allow you to take care of the legal paperwork at home, so you can breathe and enjoy your elopement day.
When is the best time to elope?
From June to September.
This is usually when all the hiking trails are open and there are no risks such as very cold temperatures and avalanches. The huts are open and the roads are also safer.
Photography wise, when is the perfect light for the shooting?
Sunrise: this is the most magical and crisp lighting one could have but waking up at 5 AM and hiking in the dark is a big commitment and it is not for everyone.
Sunset + Blue hour: Those 2 are magical if you want to have your ceremony after 6 PM. If we have a sunny day, the light will be warm and gold, perfect for a photo session.
I advise you to avoid mid-day in case we don’t have a cloudy, moody weather (in that case, it doesn’t matter) because the harsh light will not be that flattering when it comes to photography.
