Are you dreaming of a wedding day that’s as unique and enchanting as your love story, all while being surrounded by nature’s beauty? Picture this: a serene waterfront ceremony at sunset, the vibrant colors of fall foliage as your backdrop, or a quaint historic town that seems frozen in time. If any of these scenarios resonate with you, then you’re in the right place. Welcome to our guide on “Eloping in Maryland | Everything You Need to Know,” your one-stop resource for crafting the perfect Maryland elopement experience. In this guide, i’ll share my insider tips, reveal the best locations, and show you how to create an unforgettable experience with the Maryland elopement packages I offer. Ready to embark on your love adventure? Let’s get started, and keep reading if you’re considering eloping in Maryland.
Meet your Maryland Elopement Photographer
Hi, I’m Kelly!
I’m Kelly, your Maryland elopement photographer and your partner in crafting unforgettable moments. As someone who’s grown up right here in the heart of Maryland, I’ve had the privilege of exploring every nook and cranny of this beautiful state. I know the hidden, enchanting spots on public land where you can exchange your vows without any fees or restrictions. With my camera in hand and a heart full of passion, I’m excited to work with you and bring your dream Maryland elopement or adventure wedding to life. Let’s embark on this incredible journey together, capturing your love story against the backdrop of Maryland’s natural wonders.
While i’m currently living full time in Colorado, I visit my home state quite frequently, and I plan out my schedule around my work. I photograph around 5-10 elopements or adventure weddings each year in Maryland. So reach out! Let’s talk about me being your Maryland elopement photographer.
What does ‘eloping in Maryland’ mean exactly, anyway?
I’m going to tell you right away that everything you think you know about eloping is probably not true anymore. Let me guess, you think eloping means to secretly run away and get married? I understand, that’s what it used to mean. But over the years, the definition of eloping has evolved. So, let’s get to it. What does it mean to elope? Eloping is a modern approach for couples who don’t want the traditional wedding day, and want something a little different, and more meaningful. Elopements are often less expensive and less stressful than traditional weddings, and they enable couples to focus on their love and commitment to each other without the distractions of a larger event. We don’t put any restrictions to the number of guests a wedding can have for it to be considered an elopement. I do think that the more guests you have, the more easier it is to fall into the traditions of what a traditional wedding day looks like. You can still have 30 guests and consider it an elopement in my book.
Overall, elopements offer a refreshing and authentic way for couples to celebrate their love in a manner that feels true to themselves.
Top Reasons to Elope in Maryland
Maryland offers a wealth of reasons to consider eloping in Maryland instead of planning a big, traditional wedding. From the beautiful scenery to the affordability, here’s why you should consider a Maryland elopement.
Effortless Affordability: Elope in Maryland in Style Without the High Price Tag
Eloping in Maryland allows you to create an extraordinary experience without the financial stress that often comes with traditional weddings. Thanks to the availability of public lands you can enjoy a magical elopement ceremony and celebration that fits your budget. Focus on what truly matters – your love and commitment – without the worry of overspending.
Breathtaking Scenery: Discover Maryland’s Diverse Landscapes
One of the most compelling reasons couples choose eloping in Maryland is the state’s remarkable variety of picturesque settings. From the sun-kissed shores of the Chesapeake Bay to the lush sprawling hill vistas in Catoctin Mountain Park, Maryland offers a wealth of stunning backdrops to frame your intimate wedding. Your elopement photos will be truly captivating, leaving you with memories to cherish forever.
Embrace Your Roots: The Magic of Eloping in Maryland, Your Home State
There’s something truly special about choosing to elope in your home state, and Maryland is no exception. With a deep-rooted love for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, Marylanders are proud to call this beautiful state their home. By eloping in Maryland, you can celebrate your love in a familiar setting that holds sentimental value and captures the essence of who you are as a couple. Create lasting memories in a place that has shaped you, and let the pride you feel for your home state shine through on your special day. Eloping in Maryland is not only a celebration of your love for each other but also a testament to the pride and appreciation you have for the place you call home.
Seasonal Splendor: Experience the Beauty of Every Season When Eloping in Maryland
One of the unique aspects of Maryland is its distinct four seasons, each offering its own charm and appeal. From the vibrant colors of fall foliage to the blossoming flowers of spring, you can choose the perfect season for your elopement that suits your personal preferences. The seasonal variety allows for versatile celebrations, ensuring your Maryland elopement is unforgettable no matter the time of year.
Convenience and Accessibility: Easy Travel for You and Your Guests
Maryland’s strategic location on the East Coast makes it easily accessible for couples and their guests. With major airports like BWI, highways, and train stations nearby, reaching your elopement destination is a breeze. Maryland’s convenient location means less travel hassle and more time spent enjoying your special day.
A Perfect Blend of City and Country: Enjoy the Best of Both Worlds when Eloping in Maryland
Maryland offers an ideal mix of bustling cities and tranquil rural areas, providing a wide range of options for your elopement. Whether you’re drawn to the excitement of urban locales like Baltimore and Annapolis or the serenity of the countryside, Maryland has something to suit your taste. This diverse setting allows you to create an elopement that perfectly reflects your personality and style.
Local Delicacies: Savor Maryland’s Culinary Treasures
Food-loving couples will appreciate Maryland’s rich culinary scene, which boasts fresh seafood, farm-to-table dining, and local wine and craft beer offerings. Treat your taste buds to the state’s famous blue crabs, oysters, and other local delights as you celebrate your love. Incorporating Maryland’s culinary traditions into your elopement adds a unique and flavorful touch to your special day.
Legal Requirements for Eloping in Maryland: Navigating the Process
While planning your Maryland elopement is filled with excitement and romance, it’s essential to understand and fulfill the legal requirements to ensure your marriage is recognized. In this section, we’ll cover the necessary steps to obtain a marriage license, discuss waiting periods and expiration dates, and highlight the role of witnesses and officiants in completing your ceremony.
Obtaining a Marriage License: What You Need to Know
To legally elope in Maryland, you’ll need to obtain a marriage license from the county’s Circuit Court Clerk’s Office where your ceremony will take place. Both parties must be present and provide valid photo identification (e.g., driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID) along with proof of age. In Maryland, the minimum age to marry without parental consent is 18. Couples are also required to pay a license fee, which varies depending on the county. It’s a good idea to check the specific requirements and fees with the local Circuit Court Clerk’s Office before applying.
Waiting Periods and Expiration Dates: Timing Your Elopement
After applying for a marriage license in Maryland, there’s a 48-hour waiting period before the license becomes valid. This waiting period is crucial to factor into your elopement timeline, so be sure to plan accordingly. Once issued, the marriage license is valid for six months, giving you plenty of time to hold your ceremony. If the license expires before your ceremony takes place, you’ll need to reapply and pay the fee again.
Witnesses and Officiants: Crafting an Intimate Ceremony
In Maryland, your elopement ceremony can be as intimate and romantic as you desire, thanks to the flexibility of the state’s marriage regulations. While an authorized officiant is required to perform the ceremony, Maryland does not legally mandate the presence of witnesses, opening the door for a truly private and personal experience.
Imagine exchanging your vows surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Maryland’s landscapes, with only your partner and the officiant to share the moment. Your photographer (that’s me! 😊 ), who knows the importance of capturing the genuine emotion of your day, could serve as both the officiant and the one to document your love story. This unique arrangement allows you to create a deeply personal ceremony, focusing solely on your love and commitment to each other.
With no witnesses required, your Maryland elopement can be as intimate as you’ve always dreamed. Embrace the opportunity to design a ceremony that reflects your relationship’s essence and celebrates your love in a way that feels authentic and true to you.
Wondering what your elopement ceremony will look like?
Tips for Planning Your Maryland Elopement: Crafting an Unforgettable Experience
A well-planned elopement can create memories that will last a lifetime. In this section, we’ll explore some essential tips for planning your Maryland elopement, from selecting the perfect time of year to hiring a skilled elopement photographer and adding personal touches to make your day truly special.
The Perfect Time of Year: Seasonal Considerations
Choosing the right season for your Maryland elopement can greatly impact the atmosphere and overall experience. Each season in Maryland offers its own unique charm and beauty:
- Spring: Enjoy the blossoming flowers, mild temperatures, and lush greenery. Spring is the perfect season for couples who love the vibrancy and renewal that spring brings.
- Summer: Bask in the warmth and sunshine, with longer days allowing for ample time to celebrate. Outdoor ceremonies by the water or in a picturesque garden are popular choices during this season.
- Fall: *most popular time of year to elope in Maryland* Marvel at the vibrant foliage, as the landscape transforms into a stunning display of red, orange, and yellow hues. The crisp autumn air adds a cozy touch to your elopement.
- Winter: Embrace the magic of a snowy landscape, with the possibility of a winter wonderland setting. Indoor venues with warm fireplaces or rustic barns can provide a charming and intimate atmosphere.
Think about which season speaks to your hearts and embodies the vibe you want for your elopement. Let your intuition guide you to the perfect time of year, so your special day feels as fun and spontaneous as your love story.
Hiring an Elopement Photographer: Capture Your Special Day
An elopement photographer plays a crucial role in preserving the memories of your special day. They’ll not only document your elopement but also help tell your unique love story through their artistry. When selecting a photographer, consider their portfolio, style, and experience with elopements. Look for a professional who understands the intimate nature of elopements and can guide you through the process while making you feel comfortable and at ease. A skilled elopement photographer will beautifully capture the raw emotions and genuine moments of your day, providing you with stunning visual keepsakes to cherish forever.
Making Your Elopement Special: Personal Touches and Ideas
Your elopement is an opportunity to express your love and commitment in a way that feels authentic and meaningful. Incorporate personal touches and ideas that reflect your relationship and celebrate your journey together:
- Write your own vows, sharing heartfelt words that capture the essence of your love story.
- Choose a location that holds sentimental value, such as the place where you first met, a favorite hiking spot, or a cherished family property.
- Include a special ritual or tradition, like a unity ceremony, handfasting, or exchanging love letters before the ceremony.
- Personalize your attire, opting for outfits that represent your individual style and personalities.
- Celebrate with a post-elopement picnic, enjoying your favorite local delicacies while reveling in the joy of your newly married status.
By incorporating personal touches and creative ideas, you’ll ensure your Maryland elopement is a one-of-a-kind celebration that truly reflects your love and commitment to each other.
Maryland Elopement Packages
When it comes to your Maryland elopement, we understand that one size certainly does not fit all. That’s why we offer a range of Maryland elopement packages, each designed to provide you with the perfect amount of photography coverage to suit your needs. Our Maryland elopement packages come with varying hours of photography, but here’s the beauty of it – your elopement day is a blank canvas waiting for your personal touch. When you choose one of our Maryland elopement packages, you’re not just buying a set of activities or predefined experiences. Instead, you’re investing in a partnership to create a day that’s uniquely yours. We’ll work closely with you to design every aspect of your special day, from the ceremony location to the small, meaningful details. Your vision is our priority, and we’re here to ensure that your elopement in Maryland is an authentic reflection of your love story. So, whether you’re planning an intimate sunrise ceremony or a romantic sunset escape, our Maryland elopement packages are all about providing you with the perfect canvas to paint your love story upon.
What’s included in every package:
Location Scouting
I do specific location scouting (online, and in person) for each couple I work with. We will work together to decide what the perfect landscape is for you, and then i’ll find it.
Elopement Day Design
What do you two love to do? Be outside? Let’s do it! Shot gun a beer after saying your vows? Hell yeah! Want to play card games at an overlook, and then rock paper scissors to see which one of you will say their vows first? I think that sounds fun as hell! Always wanted to explore a waterfall? I’m there. This is your day. Let’s figure out what it’ll look like, together.
Vendor Recommendations (you can stop googling now)
I will provide you with a list of vendors i’ve worked with in the area you’ll be eloping. Need a florist? I know of a few that are great! Need an officiant? I have a whole list you can choose from. Need hair and make up that is okay with an early AF wakeup call for sunrise? I know HMUA that specialize in elopements.
Timeline Creation
Timing is everything. That is why I am going to create a timeline for you. I am going to make sure were at the right place at the right time to ensure we’re getting those dreamy glowy images you’re dying to have!
Travel
My travel expenses are covered. If we can reach your destination by foot, or by a 2wd vehicle, I won’t be charging you anything extra. No hidden travel fees will land in your inbox, ever.
Your Pictures
I deliver a sneak peek of roughly 15-30 pictures within 48 hours of your elopement. I know how excited you are to see them, and i’m so excited to edit them and send them to you! A few weeks later (never more than 8) you’ll receive you’re entire album of perfectly curated, professionally edited elopement day pictures. You’ll receive them on a personal URL where you have the right to view, download, print, send, and even order prints directly through your online gallery.
Maryland Elopement Packages & Pricing
Below are a list of our Maryland elopement packages and pricing. Like I mentioned above ^^, the only difference in these packages is the number of hours of photography coverage, you still get everything that’s listed above^^.
Quick ‘n Easy Elopement
$5,200 | 4 hours of coverage with 1 photographer
This Quick ‘n Easy collection is the right fit for couples who want something, (do I have to say it?) quick ‘n easy. This will be enough time to capture your ceremony, and take pictures while exploring one location. Lots of folks choose this one if they’re set on either a sunrise or sunset.
Wherever the sun is in the sky, I will be there to capture you two having the time of your lives. And you’ll be sure to grab those warm glowy images you’ve been dreaming of.
Half Day Elopement
$7,400 | 8 hours of coverage with 1 photographer
A 8-hour Half-Day Elopement is the perfect amount of time to document the two of you getting ready, the adventure of trekking to your ceremony location, any wedding day elements you want to add to your big day, and the ceremony + celebrations.
8 hours can also give you extra time to be spontaneous and take in the views a little longer. The timeline options are endless. You could think of this package like our Goldilocks option, it’s “just right” for many people who have been craving that wild adventure with their boo and you top it off with saying “I frickin’ do!”
Full Elopement Experience
$11,000 | 12 hours of coverage with 1 photographer
A 12-hour Full Elopement Experience is my most popular package for couples who are having a hybrid adventure wedding/elopement, or want to kick it up a notch and have a full 12 hour adventure all to themselves without guests!
This package is perfect for couples who want to have the best of both worlds – time spent with their guests one day, and a second day for a “just them” solo adventure. This package can be split between two days, or split between one day with an option mid day break. We’ll work together to figure out the timeline that bet fits your adventure wedding needs!
Outdoor Wedding Venues in Maryland: A Natural Backdrop for Your Celebration
If you’re dreaming of an outdoor elopement followed by a more traditional celebration, Maryland has plenty of stunning venues to choose from. From waterfront settings to historic estates, there’s an outdoor venue to suit every couple’s style and vision. In this section, we’ll highlight some of the most enchanting outdoor wedding venues in Maryland, perfect for creating a memorable day with a touch of tradition.
Waterfront Wonder: Celebrate by the Chesapeake Bay
Maryland’s picturesque waterfront locations provide a stunning backdrop for your outdoor ceremony and celebration. Venues such as the Chesapeake Bay Beach Club or the Anchor Inn offer breathtaking views of the water, creating a romantic atmosphere for your special day. Exchange your vows on the sandy shore or a dock overlooking the bay, then dance the night away under the stars.
Historic Charm: Timeless Beauty at Elegant Estates
Step back in time and surround yourself with history at one of Maryland’s elegant historic estates. Venues like the Wye River Conference Center, Antrim 1844, or the Newton White Mansion offer beautifully manicured gardens and stunning architecture that add a touch of timeless charm to your wedding day. Say “I do” beneath a canopy of ancient trees, and toast to your love in the elegant halls of these storied properties.
Rustic Romance: Embrace Nature at Countryside Retreats
If you’re drawn to the serenity and beauty of the countryside, consider a rustic outdoor venue like a charming farm or vineyard. Places like the Springfield Manor Winery & Distillery, Circle D Farm, or The Barn at Cage Stables offer idyllic settings with plenty of space to create the outdoor celebration you’ve always envisioned. Exchange vows amidst rolling hills and lush vineyards, and continue the festivities with a barn reception filled with laughter and love.
- Springfield Manor Winery & Distillery
- Circle D Farm
- Vineyards of Mary’s Meadow
- Prancing Deer Farm
- The Barn at Cage Stables
- Spring Hill Manor
- Stone View Farm
Enchanted Gardens: Say “I Do” Surrounded by Blooms
For couples who adore the beauty of nature and the allure of a secret garden, Maryland offers numerous enchanting garden venues for your outdoor wedding. Venues such as the Cylburn Arboretum, Ladew Topiary Gardens, or the Rawlings Conservatory provide an intimate and magical setting for your ceremony and celebration. Pledge your love amongst vibrant blooms, and dance beneath twinkling lights in a garden oasis.
By picking an outdoor wedding venue in Maryland that vibes with your unique style and vision, you’ll create an unforgettable celebration that seamlessly fuses the cozy intimacy of an elopement and the exhilarating fun of a traditional party.
Stellar Vendors for Your Maryland Elopement or Adventure Wedding
A fantastic team of vendors can take your elopement or adventure wedding in Maryland to the next level. Here are some highly recommended florists, private chefs, caterers, and beverage vendors to consider for your special day: