So you’re here to learn how to make an elopement special? Let’s start off by saying there’s something undeniably special about elopements. They’re a celebration of love, an event exclusively about you and your lover, and not a single thing else. What I love most about elopements is that they can be as unique as your love. Want to elope on the beach, in the mountains, or even at a coffee shop? Let’s go!
That’s why I was so excited to capture Victoria & Josh’s elopement day! I had already shot their military homecoming, and spent a day with them in the pouring rain with their two kids. So it really felt like we were already lifelong friends. It was an honor to be able to capture yet another important milestone in their lives. They made their elopement super unique and special to them by eloping at their favorite coffee shop. Let’s chat a little about their coffee shop elopement and how to make an elopement special.
Victoria & Josh’s Coffee Shop Elopement
Victoria & Josh are a military couple who used to live in San Diego. Josh is more shy and reserved, while Victoria is outgoing and loves a good time. On their elopement day, Josh was having a blast. He had so much fun with it! He was laughing, posing for photos, and dancing like no one was watching. Victoria was right there with him, having the time of her life with her sunglasses and contagious smile.
The elopement was at Coalescence Coffee Company in Norfolk, VA. If you haven’t been there yet, you need to go! It’s a beautiful and unique coffee shop that offered the perfect backdrop for this couple’s elopement. They even made Victoria & Josh some ~custom~ Mr. and Mrs. coffee cups! One of the most memorable moments, for me, was when we took flash photos outside for the last bit of fun! They danced & twirled and took in a few last moments of loving on each other. The day was full of beautiful little moments that I was honored to capture.
How to Make an Elopement Special
If there’s one thing I learned from this elopement, it’s to choose a location that’s unique to you and the love you share with your lover. Dream of getting married on the beach? Would you rather say “I do” where you had your first date? OR do you dream of getting married in a coffee shop? Go for it! For most places, like a coffee shop or fast food restaurant, you don’t even need to close it down! Ask for permission to take photos, see if they have a conference room or any private area and you’re good to go. This goes for any location (the limit does not exist). You could even hit up a McDonald’s or your favorite fast food as your second location and finish the day with your favorite food!
The location, the quirky details, and the fun-loving couple made their elopement unique and unforgettable. If you’re planning to elope, don’t be afraid to think outside the box and explore unconventional venues, like a coffee shop, a museum, or even your own backyard.
Here are some tips on how to make an elopement special:
- Choose a location that’s special to you. It could be the place where you had your first date, your favorite hiking trail, or the city where you fell in love.
- Incorporate personal details into your wedding day. It could be your favorite song, your favorite food, or something that represents you as a couple.
- Write your own vows. Okay, this isn’t ground breaking. But this is a beautiful way to express your love and commitment to each other && make your ceremony unique to your love.
- Hire a photographer. Again not ground breaking, but a photographer can capture your day the way you want to remember it. They’ll capture all those tiny little moments you might forget with time. A skilled photographer can capture the essence of your love story and the beauty of your elopement day.
- Make it an intimate affair. Invite only your closest family and friends, or just have it be the two of you. That way all you have to think about is how in love you are! (Then you don’t have to worry if Uncle Jim is going to get too drunk or Aunt Margie is mad because you sat her at the “wrong” table.)
Create an Elopement Day That Feels True to YOU
Ultimately, Victoria & Josh’s elopement was a beautiful reminder that there are no rules when it comes to love. Your elopement day should be a celebration of the unique and special bond that you share with your partner, and it’s up to you to create a day that truly reflects that.
If you came here wondering how to make an elopement special, remember that it’s not just about the elopement day itself, but the love and commitment that you share with your partner. By keeping this in mind, you can create an elopement day that feels true to who you are as a couple. Create a day that celebrates the love that brought you together in the first place. So, go ahead and dream big, choose a location that’s meaningful to you, and most importantly, enjoy your special day surrounded by the people you love.
Looking for a Southern California Elopement Photographer?
Hey, I’m Katie, a Southern California photographer. I capture all things love. From elopements to vow renewals to engagements, it’s my goal to capture your unique love in these special phases of your life. Basically I’m always here to remind you that life is magical & love surrounds you – always. If you’re on the hunt for someone to capture the phase of love you’re in, especially if you’re looking for someone to show you how to make your elopement special, let’s chat! I’d love to hear all about your love story!
Vendors for this Coffee Shop Elopement:
Photography: Catherine Julia Photography
Dress: Here and Now Bridal
Venue: Coalescence Coffee Company
Florist: Wild Wish Flowers
Hair and Makeup: Unveiled
Jewelry: Of Great Value
