Eloping: Yes you can.
Picture a wedding day like this:
- unique & memorable
- stress-free & fun
- exciting & relaxing
this is not a stretch of the imagination – this is eloping.
Eloping in Maryland | The Ultimate Guide
Welcome! In this guide you’ll find how to elope in Maryland, tips for getting your marriage license, go over permit filing for eloping on public lands, and go over my Maryland Elopement Packages.
Let’s get started, and keep reading if you’re considering eloping in Maryland.
Meet your Maryland elopement photographer
hey, i’m kelly! (that’s me <<<)
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 a lot of the state, and know of some great places you can have your elopement without any fees or restrictions. With my camera in hand and a deep passion for helping couples elope, I’m excited to work with you and bring your dream Maryland elopement or adventure wedding to life.
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 2-5 elopements or adventure weddings each year in Maryland. So reach out! Let’s talk about me being your Maryland elopement photographer.
FAQ’s
What does ‘eloping in Maryland’ mean?
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.
Overall, elopements offer a refreshing and authentic way for couples to celebrate their love in a manner that feels true to themselves
Can you invite guests to your Maryland elopement?
absolutely!! (only the ones who make the cut, of course)
I 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. Keep in mind that most of the public lands where you can hold a wedding ceremony outdoors will probably have restrictions on the number of guests are allowed at the ceremony. Why do public lands have restrictions on the number of guests allowed? Because the lands simply can’t accommodate more than 15 guests usually. Some areas will allow up to 30, or depending on the area some even allow up to 75 guests. Work with your Maryland elopement photographer to figure out your guest restrictions, and what public lands might need a permit.
How much will it cost to elope?
your maryland elopement cost break down
The truth is, eloping in Maryland can cost as little as a marriage license, and the cost of an officiant. Sounds crazy, right? But some couples just want to say “I do!” already! But, for those who want to have an elopement experience, have it photographed, spend some money on some vendors to make your elopement extra special, this part is for you. Below i’ll list out the most essential items you’ll want for eloping. Take a look at the breakdown, and adjust as needed to get your final cost to eloping in Maryland.
*the below cost does not account for overnight stays if you’re traveling out of town to a more picturesque Maryland elopement location
wedding attire: $500
rings: $150
florals: $200
officiant: $150
hair and make up: $200
celebration meal: $200
4 hr photography coverage: $5,000
total cost for eloping in Maryland: $6,435
My Maryland Elopement Packages Include:
location scouting just for you
Where are we going to hold your elopement? 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.
permit filing, & marriage license guidance
The worst part about eloping is the legal part, am I right? But don’t stress! I’ll help you get your marriage license, and apply for and file permits when needed.
custom timeline creation
I’ll tell you where you need to be, at what time, to get the best pictures. I don’t leave anything to chance. I’ll research where the sun will be at what time, and create a timeline for your day.
No Long Waits To See Your Photos
You don’t want to wait two months to see your wedding photos and neither do I. You’ll receive your sneak peek within 24 hours and your full gallery a few weeks later with a personal URL with high-resolution, professionally edited photos.
In Love and Adventure Maryland Elopement Packages
The Ultimate Maryland Elopement Package
$12,000
12 hours of photography coverage
FOR THE COUPLE WHO WANTS IT ALL, THE Ultimate maryland ELOPEMENT PACKAGE INCLUDES 12 HOURS OF PHOTOGRAPHY COVERAGE WITH ONE maryland ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER (ME!). this PACKAGE COMES WITH THE OPTION TO SPLIT YOUR PHOTO COVERAGE BETWEEN TWO DAYS, OR A MID DAY BREAK WITHIN ONE DAY. HOWEVER WE SLICE AND DICE, YOU GET 12 HOURS of photography COVERAGE.
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. OR THE COUPLES WHO WANT An ultimate experience ALL TO THEMSELVES.
Full Day Maryland Elopement Package
$7,200
8 hours of photography coverage
THE Full day maryland ELOPEMENT PACKAGE GIVES YOU 8 HOURS OF PHOTOGRAPHY COVERAGE — with an optional midday break. for the couples who can’t decide between sunrise, or sunset, this is the package for you!
Quick ‘n Easy Maryland Elopement Package
$5,000
4 hours of photography coverage
WHEN YOU WANT TO GET MARRIED, HAVE GORGEOUS PHOTOS, AND THEN THE DAY TO YOURSELF, THE QUICK N’ EASY maryland ELOPEMENT PACKAGE IS FOR YOU. IT INCLUDES 4 HOURS OF PHOTOGRAPHY COVERAGE
Choose Your Adventure
or reach out for your free elopement planning session
All travel expenses are included in the cost!
How to Elope in Maryland
The legal stuff
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 for your marriage license
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 planning, 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
In Maryland, your elopement ceremony can really be just you and your officiant. 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.
Tips for Planning Your Maryland Elopement
A well-planned elopement can create memories that will last a lifetime. In this section, we’ll talk about some tips for planning your Maryland elopement, from selecting the perfect time of year to hiring an elopement photographer and adding personal touches to make your day truly special.
When is the best time of year to elope in Maryland?
Maryland is one of those states that has all four seasons. Deciding on when to elope in Maryland will really come down to what you want the atmosphere, and experience to be like on your elopement day.
- 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: Summer’s in Maryland can get hot and humid, but the longer days mean more time to celebrate.
- Fall: *most popular time of year to elope in Maryland* The crisp autumn air, and all of the changing colors of the fall foliage make the fall season the most popular time of year for an elopement in Maryland.
- Winter: It could be snowing, or it could be cold and wet. Winter is a big gamble in Maryland, you never know what you’re going to get. Consider retreating indoors at a cozy Airbnb after an outdoor ceremony to keep warm.
Hiring an Elopement Photographer
An elopement photographer can help you plan your elopement, and take amazing pictures for you. 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 capture the raw emotions and genuine moments of your day, as well as the landscape.
Making Your Elopement Special
Here are some ideas to think about when planning your own elopement.
- Write your own wedding vows
- 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
- Celebrate with a post-elopement picnic, it’s the perfect way to take in the views, be present in the moment, and enjoy each other’s company on your wedding day
Reach out to me today to start planning your Maryland Elopement
I work with couples every day just like you, who want a meaningful, peaceful, simple wedding day. I also eloped back in 2016, so I get it. I’ll help you plan the where, the when, and the how, and then i’ll take amazing pictures for you to cherish for forever. Reach out to me today, and let’s start planning your dream elopement.
