Asheville Elopement Guide
Dreaming of an Asheville area elopement but not sure where to start? This guide is for you.
North Carolina is a breathtaking state that offers something for everyone. Boasting four national forests, half of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and over forty state parks within its borders, the options for stunning elopement locations are endless.
But that’s not all, the state is filled with vibrant and historic cities and small towns, too! The cuisine is world-class, and there are so many other great things found here.
If you’ve decided that North Carolina is the place for your elopement or wedding, your next question might be where in the state should we have our celebration? When or what season should we have it? What are the legalities of marriage in North Carolina?
Keep reading friend!
Asheville: Best of the Best
In January of 2025, The New York Times put Asheville in it’s top 20 places (of 52) in the world to visit in 2025. And for good reason.
Asheville is easily one of the best East Coast spots to have your elopement or wedding and is considered adventure hub of Western North Carolina. It’s got all the outdoor recreation options for the adventurous types, not to mention numerous James Beard award-winning restaurants or chefs like 2025’s semifinalists William Dissen of The Market Place, Leo’s House of Thirst, Neng Jrs, and Ashleigh Shanti of Good Hot Fish.
There are also several classic Asheville dive bars like the Lazy Diamond and Double Crown, craft cocktails at Little Jumbo and Crow and Quill, as well as numerous top-notch breweries like Burial, TRVE, DSSOLVR, and family-friendly staples like Highland Brewing (Asheville’s original craft brewery), New Belgium Brewing, and Sierra Nevada.
Plus, there’s of course a vibrant music scene all of the historic, artistic and cultural points of interest that would round out your experience in this charming mountain town.
When to Elope: Choosing The Right Time of Year
There’s a season here for everyone, so this decision is personal. However, if I had to pick, I really like mid-April to June, or September to October. See below for some things to consider as you finalize your wedding date(s).
Spring
Months: Late March, April, May, Early June)
As an Asheville-based elopement photographer who’s seen it all—from vibrant spring blooms to quiet winter landscapes—I can confidently say that spring is one of the most magical times to elope in North Carolina. The forests come alive with fresh greenery and wildflowers, the temperatures are usually just right, and the trails are still blissfully uncrowded before the summer rush. One point of consideration: Be ready to bring umbrellas in case of rain, or to pivot to a different spot if roads or other aspects of your plan get affected.
Spring may take its time reaching the higher elevations, but that only adds to the charm. No matter when you plan your elopement, there’s always a trail somewhere in North Carolina at the height of its bloom, offering breathtaking backdrops for your big day. Let’s work together to find that perfect spot and make your spring elopement unforgettable!
Summer
Months: June-early September
Summer in North Carolina offers endless possibilities for a vibrant and adventurous elopement. With long hours of daylight, lush forests, and beautiful waterfalls, it’s a season full of beauty and excitement. While summer can bring heat and humidity, the higher elevations around Asheville provide cooler temperatures. Plus, there are plenty of ways to stay refreshed—paddleboarding, kayaking, or taking a dip in a mountain stream or waterfall.
June is especially stunning, with wildflowers in full bloom and cooler temps compared to the warmer, more humid months of July and August. The summer solstice on June 20, 2025, will bring extra-long daylight hours, giving you even more time for outdoor adventures and stunning photos. Whether you’re dreaming of a peaceful morning ceremony or a fun-filled afternoon, summer allows for endless possibilities. If you're worried about the heat, we can plan for a sunrise or sunset session, or include a refreshing dip in one of Asheville’s many waterfalls. I’m here to help you create a colorful, comfortable, and unforgettable summer elopement!
Fall
Months: Mid-September-Early November
Fall in Western North Carolina is nothing short of magical, and it’s no wonder visitors flock from all over to experience it. The mountains come alive with vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold, making every trail, overlook, and drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway feel like a postcard-worthy moment. The crisp, comfortable temperatures and low humidity create perfect conditions for exploring outdoors, and fall is typically one of the drier seasons, meaning less worry about rain on your elopement day.
Autumn also brings cozy, nostalgic vibes, from apple picking and pumpkin carving to evenings by a crackling bonfire. For couples who love adventure, this season is ideal for a longer hike or even a backpacking elopement, as the cooler weather makes the effort so much more enjoyable. While the natural beauty draws plenty of tourists to Asheville and surrounding towns during this time, there are still countless hidden spots to create a private, unforgettable experience. Let’s work together to find your perfect fall setting and make the most of this stunning season!
Winter
Months: November-Early March
Dreaming of a quiet, intimate winter wedding? The North Carolina mountains offer a serene setting with snow-dusted peaks, frosted forests, and icy rhododendrons, creating a peaceful winter wonderland. With fewer visitors, winter provides the ultimate privacy for couples seeking a secluded experience.
Though parts of the Blue Ridge Parkway may close during winter, there are still plenty of stunning spots to explore that remain easily accessible. Chilly temperatures add to the cozy charm—think warming up by a fire, sipping hot chocolate, or ending your day with a romantic toast under the stars. Just be mindful of shorter daylight hours, which can make your day feel even more intimate as the soft light sets earlier in the evening and later in the morning.
Winter's muted tones make it a perfect time to get creative with your style. Bright bouquet colors stand out beautifully against snowy backdrops, or you can embrace whites and blues for an elegant, wintry feel. Whether it’s snowy hikes, forest walks, or cozy celebrations, winter is a magical and unforgettable time to say "I do." Let’s make your winter elopement as unique as the season!
North Carolina Marriage Licenses
To get married in Asheville, you’ll need to apply for and receive a marriage license through the Register of Deeds.
Note: if you plan to have a civil ceremony prior, you can skip to the next section!
Apply
You must apply for a marriage license no more than 60 days prior to your wedding day.
If you’re within that 60-day window, visit the Buncombe County Register of Deeds website and fill out the application. You can also fill out the forms in person at the office.
Pay
The fee for a North Carolina marriage license is $60, and is valid for 60 days once it’s been issued. The license is good anywhere in the state!
Accepted payment methods:
Credit/Debit
Personal Checks
Money Orders
Cash
Get The License
What you’ll need in order to pick up your license:
Both partner’s must be present
Both partner’s must have a photo ID and social security card
You must pay the $60 license fee by credit/debit, cash, check, or money order.
After the Ceremony
Once the ceremony is performed, the completed license must be returned to the Register of Deeds Office within 10 days. A certificate of marriage can then be issued.
A Note on Witnesses
In North Carolina, you need 2 witnesses (no, the officiant can’t sign it) to be legally married. Your photographer (hopefully me!) can sign as a witness, but that still leaves one more person.
What should you do? You can invite a friend to join or we can find a random hiker to sign.
If you have a few guests already joining - this isn’t a problem.
Tips to Avoid the Crowds on Your Wedding Day
Pick a date mid-week
I know, I know - Saturday is a great day to get married. But, if you envisioned some peace and quiet, a parking spot for your car, and some nature-soaked seclusion, I would avoid adventuring Friday-Sunday. Busy weekend tourism can put a wrench in your plans for privacy (and sometimes parking) - especially in the fall when leaf-peeping adds so many visitors to the trails and overlooks all over the region.
DISCLAIMER: Public lands are public, so unless it’s private property there’s no way to fully guarantee we won’t see any other hikers. If we do see them, I’ll be there coming up with Plan B to avoid the onlookers!
Avoid Holidays
Holidays bring more visitors to the region, and you can expect to see some of them out in the mountains. If you can avoid federal holidays, you are giving yourself a bit better chance of sharing your beautiful spot with fewer folks.
Hit those ‘Hidden Gem’ Locations
If you and your partner are active and into it, hiking a bit further often rewards you with extra special views that you can enjoy without a gaggle of tourists or other visitors cramping your style. Finding hidden gem locations is one way to put the odds in your favor that you’ll not only have some unique and gorgeous views, but will also have less foot traffic. Hidden gem locations are the ones that aren’t right off the road or quite as obvious to get to. They may require an unmarked, off-shoot trail or go a different direction than might seem obvious. For this reason, the average hiker may not know about it and for this reason may opt for the more popular spot instead.
Another good reason to dig around for these spots is they also probably haven’t been photographed as frequently, which can also give your photos a unique and creative perspective.
If you’re ambitious, just imagine the options!
Late Fall/Winter Dates
If you’re not deterred by icy conditions and cold weather, and if the magic of winter is your vibe - winter might be just the time for you and your partner to exchange vows. After the leaves drop around Nov 1, tourism to the area begins to slow down pretty fast. You no longer have long lines of cars jamming overlook pulloffs, nor will you see that many folks on trails on those chilly days. If you can access the location without depending on the Parkway, you might have some good options for the privacy you seek.
Have a Sunrise Elopement
Choosing a sunrise ceremony could be the perfect way to ensure privacy and a truly intimate experience if you are eloping during a busy month or day. If you absolutely have to get married on a weekend day, early mornings offer a quiet serenity that few other times of day can match. By opting for a sunrise elopement, you'll likely find yourself alone (or nearly alone) at some of Asheville's most popular spots—think mountain overlooks, waterfalls, or scenic trails. The payoff is clear: beautiful, soft morning light for your photos, the absence of crowds, and the luxury of having the entire day ahead of you to celebrate. Yes, it means waking up early, getting ready in the pre-dawn hours, and possibly a bit of hiking, but the quiet and calm that come with being the first ones there is a rare gift. You'll get to share this magical moment without distractions, and you'll have the whole day to enjoy your newlywed bliss, knowing your special moment was uniquely yours, far from the crowds.
Private Land
Sometimes a rental property will have exactly what you need both in terms of amenities and stunning mountain views. If you happen to find a rental property that can provide the space and happens to have the views you love, it could be a great option for at least one location on your wedding day. After a ceremony on-site with friends and family, you could take off to the mountains for sunset to celebrate your new chapter solo before heading back to the cabin for dinner and drinks with loved ones.
Where to Stay For Your Elopement
When planning your Asheville elopement, one of the most exciting parts is choosing where to stay.
The area offers a wide range of options to match your style, from cozy mountain cabins and unique treehouses to luxurious boutique hotels and charming historic inns. If you’re looking for privacy and breathtaking views, there are plenty of secluded cabins and vacation rentals nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering a peaceful retreat just steps from nature’s beauty. For those who want to stay closer to the action, Asheville’s cool hotels and Airbnbs in the downtown area provide easy access to the city's vibrant food scene, breweries, art galleries, and shops.
City Lights or Brown Mountain Lights?
Think about what kind of experience you want for your stay. Are you hoping to immerse yourself in Asheville’s lively atmosphere with quick access to restaurants, breweries, and art? Or are you dreaming of a more secluded getaway, tucked away in the mountains with panoramic views and serene surroundings—perhaps closer to your adventure elopement location? Whatever your vision, the options range from contemporary lofts and historic bed-and-breakfasts to modern lodges that combine comfort and convenience.
For couples seeking something truly special, Asheville also offers a variety of vacation rentals in historic homes, unique spaces like renovated barns, and even luxury treehouses that will make your stay unforgettable. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot for two or a larger property to host friends and family, the best Asheville spots to stay for your wedding or elopement offer something for every couple.
Asheville Stays
Zelda Dearest (Capacity: 100 guests)
Blind Tiger Asheville (Capacity: 30 guests)
Boutique Hotels and Other Unique Stays
River Row Flats (West Asheville)
Elevation Lofts (downtown)
Wrong Way River Lodge & Campground (West Asheville)
The Gray Rock Inn (Downtown Asheville)
Spots Outside Asheville
Luxury Mountain Getaways
Bend of Ivy Lodge (Capacity: 26 guests)
Hummingbird Haven (Black Mountain)
Quaint and/or Rustic Stays
Hurricane Helene Update
Due to the damage to the Blue Ridge Parkway caused by Hurricane Helene, the North Carolina section of the motor road is closed indefinitely; the National Park Service will not be issuing any permits for any special events in North Carolina until further notice.
Blue Ridge Parkway Wedding Permits
If roadside accessibility is your main priority, getting married at one of dozens of scenic Blue Ridge Parkway overlooks can be a nice option for couples with (up to 25) guests. This option is not about seclusion or privacy, but rather convenience and easy access. This can be a great option if the Parkway holds special meaning to you and if health or age makes other spots impossible.
Please note that The Blue Ridge Parkway requires at least 30-day notice for all wedding/elopement/vow exchange permit applications.
Blue Ridge Parkway Permits: Q&A
(Parkway permit Q&A below is cited from the NPS website).
Is there a fee for a wedding permit?
Yes. There is a non-refundable fee of $150.00 due at the time of application. This fee consists of a $75 application fee and $75 administrative fee and is non-refundable as it is cost recovery for work completed in receiving, processing, and administering the permit.
How do I pay the fees?
We only accept electronic payments for Special Use Permit fees. We do not accept cash or checks. Please see the "Instructions for Applying" section below for further information.
New Fee Structure - Effective October 1, 2024.
Do the officiant and/or photographer have to apply for a separate permit?
No. The officiant is considered a part of the approved activity, and as long as the photographer is only using a camera, tripod, and simple lighting, no extra permit is required.
Can I block off the area for my wedding to keep the public out?
No. The approved location is still a part of public lands and remains open to normal visitor use throughout the event.
What if it rains or the parkway is closed on the date of the event?
Rain on the wedding day is good luck, right? There are no “rain checks” or refunds, and the issuance of a Special Use Permit does not hold the National Park Service responsible for circumstances beyond its control. If the motor road is closed due to public safety concerns, access to the approved location will not be granted.
What does my wedding permit cover?
The permit is a two-hour authorization for wedding/elopement/vow exchange ceremony activity on the date/time at the location approved by the permit. The permit does not authorize reception activity at the location.
The park will not, and the permit does not supply an officiant, state license/paperwork, photographer, party bus driver, or any other wedding planning services.
Are there any restrictions on the size of my wedding group?
Indeed. Wedding permits are limited to 25 total people - including wedding party, officiant, and photographer – or fewer. Some locations are limited to fewer people for safety reasons (see Restrictions). Weddings held at Peaks of Otter lodge may allow up to 100 people, but must be booked directly through the Lodge.
The following locations are available for Special Use Permits for weddings but have limited capacity (MP=Milepost):
MP 74.7 – Thunder Ridge Overlook – Limited to 15 total participants
MP 85.9 – Sharp Top Pinnacle – Limited to 15 total participants
MP 320.8 – Chestoa View Overlook – Limited to 12 total participants
The following locations are not within the boundary or jurisdiction of the Blue Ridge Parkway and do not require a Special Use Permit from the NPS:
Wiseman’s View (Contact US Forest Service Pisgah National Forest)
Black Balsam Knob (Contact US Forest Service Pisgah National Forest)
Sam’s Knob (Contact US Forest Service Pisgah National Forest)
Grandfather Mountain (Contact Grandfather Mountain State Park)
Mount Mitchell (Contact Mount Mitchell State Park)
Jump Off Rock (Contact the Town of Laurel Park NC)
The following locations are closed to the issuance of any Special Use Permits (MP=Milepost):
Inside any government building, historic or otherwise
MP 176.2 - Mabry Mill historic area (May be permitted in the grass area in front of the Mill pond)
MP 213.3 – Blue Ridge Music Center
MP 241.1 – Bluffs Lodge and surrounding grounds
MP 294.0 – Bass Lake
MP 302.8 – Rough Ridge Overlook and boardwalk
MP 305.2 – Beacon Heights left fork trail (May be permitted at the end of the right fork trail)
MP 316.4 – Linville Falls
MP 339.5 – Crabtree Falls
MP 364.1 – Craggy Gardens Pinnacle Trail, Pinnacle Scenic View, and Craggy Dome Parking Area (May be permitted at Craggy Flats Bald)
MP 418.8 – Graveyard Fields
MP 422.4 – Devil’s Courthouse
MP 451.2 – Waterrock Knob
Elopement Day Activity Ideas
Having your ceremony is pretty much the only must-do parts of your wedding day. Before or after that 15-minute (life-changing) experience, can look like whatever you want it to look like! You can go
There are all sorts of ways to put together an amazing, full-day elopement
Adventure & Outdoor Activities:
Hiking and backpacking scenic trails
Paddleboarding on serene summer waters
Exploring swimming holes and hidden gems
Kayaking, canoeing, or tubing down lazy rivers
Renting a boat for a peaceful day on the lake
Chasing waterfalls in the heart of nature
Rock climbing or bouldering adventures
Stargazing under crystal-clear night skies
Camping under the stars with cozy campfires
Foraging for mushrooms or other wild treasures
Relaxation & Romance:
Watching breathtaking sunrises and sunsets
Enjoying dreamy picnics in picturesque settings
Unwinding with yoga, massage, or spa retreats
Hammocking in peaceful, shaded forests
Indulging in private chef-prepared meals
Food & Fun:
Sipping craft beers during brewery visits
Savoring a fancy dinner in a cozy or upscale setting
Making s’mores over a crackling campfire
Finding the Right Wedding Dress
Choosing the right wedding dress for your adventure elopement is all about combining beauty with practicality. As your photographer, I want you to feel comfortable(!), confident, and ready to embrace the breathtaking scenery without feeling restricted or weighed down. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you search for your perfect dress:
Fabric Matters
Lightweight, breathable fabrics like chiffon, silk, organza, or charmeuse not only look stunning but also allow you to move freely and stay comfortable throughout your day. Avoid dresses that will be too constricting or will limit your natural movement. Most trails have roots and rocks, and sometimes even downed trees that we have to step over. A mermaid style or other form-fitting dress may be gorgeous, but will feel like a pain if you’re trying to step up, across, over, etc., on your way to that perfect ceremony location you found.
The Right Style
Consider A-line, ball gown, or tea-length styles. These offer ease of movement and are better suited for hiking than mermaid, trumpet, or column styles, which can restrict your stride.
Keep It Practical
Weight and packing ease are key factors. A dress that’s too heavy can make hiking challenging, while a gown that’s easy to fold and tuck into a backpack will make your journey to the perfect elopement spot much smoother.
Plan for the Elements
Think about the season and climate you’ll be eloping in. Shorter dresses might be more comfortable in warm weather, while a longer gown can offer protection from wind, brush, or cooler temperatures.
Wrinkle-Free Options
Look for dresses with tulle or crochet details, as these fabrics tend to resist wrinkles and will photograph beautifully straight out of your backpack.
Quick Tips for Mountain-Ready Wedding Dresses
Fabric: Lightweight, breathable options like chiffon, silk, organza, or charmeuse.
Style: A-line, ball gown, or tea-length styles work best for hiking.
Weight: Avoid heavy dresses that make movement difficult.
Length: Shorter dresses for comfort, longer dresses for protection.
Wrinkles: Choose tulle or crochet to minimize wrinkles.
Season & Climate: Consider the weather conditions you’ll encounter.
Packing: Select a dress that’s easy to fold and carry in your backpack.
Asheville-Area Bridal Designers and Shops
Every bride has their own style, but here are a few dress designers to get your started as you begin your search. I wanted to start the list with Asheville designers first:
Wildflower Bridal - wildflowerbridal.com
Angela Kim Couture - angelakimcouture.com
Charles Josef Bridal - charlesjosefbridal.com
Meadowbrooke Bridal - meadowbrookebridal.com
Birchwood Bridal - birchwoodbridal.com
Sugarcane Studios - sugarcanestudios.com
Dimitra Designs (Greenville) - dimitradesigns.com
Popular Bridal Designers
Grace Loves Lace – graceloveslace.com
Rue de Seine – ruedeseine.com
Rime Arodaky - rime-arodaky.com
Alexandra Grecco – alexandragrecco.com
Leanne Marshall – leannemarshall.com
Reclamation – reclamationdesigncompany.com
Watters Designs – watters.com
BHLDN – bhldn.com
Daci Gowns – dacigowns.com
Dreamers & Lovers – dreamersandlovers.com
Divine Atelier – divineatelier.com
Dress Rentals
Renting a wedding gown can be a smart, sustainable, and budget-friendly choice for your adventure elopement or small wedding. Many rental services, like Daci Gowns, Borrowing Magnolia, and Lending Luxury, offer stunning dresses in a variety of styles to suit your dream day without the long-term commitment of owning a gown. Renting allows you to wear a designer-quality dress at a fraction of the cost, which is especially helpful if you’re planning to hike, climb, or otherwise put your dress to the test in the mountains. Plus, you won’t need to worry about storage or preservation afterward—just enjoy your day, return the gown, and treasure the memories.
Hiking boots or dress shoes?
Another common question that gets asked by couples is what to put on your feet for your outdoor wedding. The answer has a lot to do with your location. If you are hiking at all, and the trail has mud, dirt, dust, roots, rocks, etc., you’ll want to grab a pair of comfy, broken-in hiking boots or approach shoes that have Vibram-like soles and can at least repel a little water - versus going right through.
If you’re hike is short and the ground isn’t that slippery, uneven, or otherwise problematic for something nicer, you might get away with wearing those classy kicks.
If you really have your heart set on getting photos in that special pair of shoes, I would advise having a plan for carrying them along. That way you’re covered should the trail become rainy and muddy or should any other unexpected things be found on the trail.
Inspiration Boards
Don’t just doom-scroll - make that screen time worth-while and keep track of the things you’re inspired by…and have a place to come back to, share, and add (or take away) ideas that fit you and your partner’s wedding day vision!
Pinterest, Milanote, Miro, etc.
When you first begin researching and planning for your own elopement, and it may be obvious at this point, but creating a document that holds some high-level ideas and maybe even some teeny detail you want to make sure to remember or include, is a great way to get the ball rolling on putting a face to the ideas swirling around in your head. Rather than allow all the ideas to overwhelm or confuse, consider putting them all down in one place so you can review, tweak, add, remove, and share with others (if you care to!)
What should you include?
As you scour social media, find examples of different parts of your planning that you want to tweak or customize for you. You might also keep track of (or at least notice) industry trends you like (or don’t).
I know from my own experience, ANY and ALL inspiration that gets shared with me is greatly welcomed and appreciated. I love knowing a bit about what a couple likes or doesn’t like going into the big day. One way to convey your ideas is visual examples in a Pinterest board, or other idea-collecting space. This info might also be the start of a shot list for your photographer, too.
Some common things you might search for or get ideas about:
Dress or suit fabric or pattern options
Style of rings
Season of the year for the Asheville mountains
Landscape type
Lodging type
Shot list ideas
Online location scouting
Another big part of planning your adventure wedding is your ceremony location! (Duh!) So, if you’re planning to elope in an area and time of year you’re not familiar with, sites like Alltrails.com or apps like Google Earth Pro offer an insane amount of information on seemingly infinite numbers of trails around the world.
Alltrails.com
Being able to search by features (waterfall, views, etc.), trail length, difficulty, conditions and more—is very useful.
Another good way to really view your location is with Google Earth Pro. Google Earth Pro has a ton of really useful features like sun location, 3D rendering of landscapes and other things. I have only used a small fraction of it but found it to be really useful as I envision a place I haven’t been. With a little imagination, you can really visualize how your day could go so you maximize the views and hit the light just perfectly!
Some common things you might use Alltrails.com or Google Earth for during your planning phase:
The Views. What are the views at the end of the trail? What will that view look like throughout the year? Check out all the trip reports from real people and use some of that information to help you prepare. You can also go back in time and sort for photos of your location by month or season of the year. It’s a very handy tool to get a sense of when fall color happens, etc.
Trail conditions of where you’re going. There are consistent users of Alltrails, so it’s pretty nice to hop on and see if there are any trail closures or other things to know before you arrive.
Favorites List. Another feature that I use all the time is the ability to save your favorites trails to different lists. You can share the lists with partners or other folks you want to include in the planning.
Directions and distances. It’s also handy to plug in the important addresses for your day and see how far you are from the trailhead. This helps as you plan with vendors so you know about when you would need to leave a cabin for the next location(s).
How to Pick the Best Local Photographer
Quality of work
Whether it’s me or someone else you’ve found, make sure that you and your partner both truly love the photographs your chosen photographer creates. Look at a bunch of them - and not just a few bangers on Instagram. How do they handle different weather or lighting conditions? Do you still like their work?
Not only will you’ll get ideas and inspiration, you might also develop a better sense of what you like and don’t like. After the search, reach out to the photographer whose work stands out among the rest. Usually there’s one or two! They’re probably your photographer!
Will we vibe?
Once you have someone in mind, reach out to them and schedule a call. Do they seem fun? How are they to talk with? Are they easy going and knowledgeable? Are they professional and experienced? Do they reply to you in a timely manner and in a professional way?
Do you get the sense that they’re experts at what they do? Will they be capable and comfortable getting you to the epic places you have in mind for your one-of-a-kind wedding day? Do they listen to your ideas and offer ideas of their own? What do they do in inclement weather?
Are they flexible?
If the date needs to shift a bit - maybe due to severe weather, can your photographer make it work? When you give yourself over to Mother Nature, we accept the chance for rain or inclement weather in all seasons. As such, having a bit of flexibility both in your length of stay in the region (i.e., are you planning to just come in for the day and leave, or are you going to chill in the area for a little bit?)
If you have extra time, it’s a relief to know you have more than one chance at that day you envisioned. For me, I will shoot rain or shine if you’re undeterred. But if you had two days of the week with vastly different weather on each, I’m certainly open to swapping days for the date with the best light!
Lastly: Are They Available?
Finally, you’ve found your person! Last step: Is your chosen photographer available? Are your dates flexible? Are their’s?
It’s okay…you don’t have to have it all figured out yet.
It can feel overwhelming at the beginning. I totally get that. Let’s meet each other and talk through some of your first draft ideas and make the first step in planning your mountain wedding.