It’s that time of year, wedding season is in full swing, and I’m spending all my time in Jackson Hole. Between the city and Grand Teton National Park, it gets wild, but it’s the most incredible time of year. Planning a wedding is never easy, especially during the last year. As a Jackson Hole wedding photographer, I’ve broken it all down for you. We’re going to go month-to-month, what you need to plan when to get you to the alter in 6 months! Here’s how to plan your Jackson Hole elopement in 6 months!

Elopement in 6 Months

This month is going to be one of the busier months, so get ready. Your main vendors need to be booked as soon as possible, like right after that ring is on your finger! Those vendors include, photography (hi!), officiant, hair and makeup artist and a florist. Many brides plan their wedding over the course of a year or so, however, eloping has become incredible popular, and many vendors are working to accommodate as many couples as possible. So, it’s important to reach out to these vendors first to ensure your top choice, high ticket groups are there on your big day.

• Book main vendors, photography, officiant, hair and makeup artist and florist.
• Get wedding permit from Grand Teton National Park
• Plane tickets

If you are traveling from out of town to elope in Jackson Hole, book tickets early! Depending on what time of year you are planning to elope, tickets sell quickly. Ensure those that are invited to your intimate event are made aware, and are able to attend.

• Car rental   
• Book your hotel or airbnb

Jackson Hole is beautiful for any destination event, and booking a place to stay early is key when planning your elopement in 6 months. Whether you’re looking for a beautiful and secluded cabin, or a hotel downtown, get in touch soon to book your stay. No one wants to get ready in a public bathroom! Plan out a location for those gorgeous getting ready shots, and space to hang out with your friends!

• Wedding dress shopping (order, takes time to ship)

As soon as that ring is on your finger, run to the dress shop. Often times your local dress store will have to order your gown in a size specific to you, and it can take time to be delivered. Going early will help increase the odds of your dress coming in with time to spare for any alterations you may need. If you aren’t able to go in and look at dresses this early, I would suggest talking to the consultant when you are able, let them know your situation and see if they offer rush shipping or are willing to sell sample gowns!

3 Months Until “I do!”

Now that we have gotten some of more stressful tasks done, let’s get to some of the good stuff. 3 months from your elopement date the fun begins, start making reservations for any dinners you’ll have out there. Whether that’s a rehearsal dinner, or your first dinner as a married couple! Next, find all your accessories! That means your shoes, jewelry or your something blue!

• Start shopping for shoes, jewelry, and other accessories
• Make dinner reservations

1 Month Until Jackson Hole Elopement

Once you have finalized your key vendors, it’s time to reach out and start coordinating timelines. Meet with your photographer and go over important events for your elopement you want captured. Whether you’re considering a first look, or honoring family that can’t be there, let your photographer know! This helps prevent any confusion and disappointment.

• Finalize timelines with vendors (photographers, officiant, caterers)

1 Week Until Big Day

This is the easy part, get your marriage license! One week before your elopement things will be coming together quickly, and this is when I suggest you go and get your Wyoming wedding license to make sure things are official!

Jackson Hole Elopement

Planning a Jackson Hole elopement in 6 months doesn’t have to be stressful! Breaking it all down into bite size, attainable pieces is the key to success. If you are getting overwhelmed or have questions, reach out. I offer wedding planning services to my brides as well as photography, so I’ve seen it all.

Ready to take the leap? Let’s do this!