Hiring a photographer is one of the biggest steps you’ll take when deciding to elope. Congratulations on your engagement and for choosing to do something that feels meaningful and exciting. First off, I want to say I’m extremely happy that you’re here reading this and are even considering having me around to plan and document your love story. It’s truly an honor. I’m going to walk you through the exact process we take when you inquire with me.
Step One: Find Your Photographer
If you’re reading this blog post, I hope that you’ve already done that (aka me) hehe.
It’s important that you’ve done your research on your photographer and have fallen in love with their style and who they are as a person. You can do this by looking at their social media and reading their website and blog posts. Personally we have a highlight on our instagram called Our Little Life, I’d love for you to check it out and see all of the silliness and who I am when I’m not shooting.
The person you choose to shoot your elopement (or wedding) is a big deal, this person will be with you the whole day. You’ll want to have trust in them personally and on a professional level. It’s your wedding here, this day will only happen once!
Step Two: Send Me An Inquiry
Once you’ve decided you’re ready to reach out, go to our contact form and fill out your information. Try to be as detailed as possible. Our couples typically book a while out from the season they have in mind so it’s okay to not have everything figured out just yet. That’s part of the reason you’re coming to me!
Some things you’ll want to think about before inquiring to get you excited and give us a clear idea about what you’re dreaming up:
- A general location or vibe in mind. Are you and your partner obsessed with the mountains in Colorado and try to visit at least once a year? This could be a good thing to know. It’s a meaningful spot, you’re probably already planning to be there, and you’re obsessed with the scenery. Or are you the city type? Does the idea of frolicking the busy city streets of New York City with an iconic Met Museum photo and a Central Park Picnic sound more like what you’re going for. Pinterest has worked wonders for my couples who aren’t 100% sure of the theme/vibe they want. Go through Pinterest and save some things that stick out to you. I can help create a timeline and itinerary around that.
- Pay attention to your date. Elopements are often shot on the weekdays for a few reasons: A) you may need to visit the county clerk of courts office for a marriage license depending on where you’re eloping and how much time you have scheduled for your trip. B) popular touristy areas and cities aren’t going to be as busy as they would on the weekend since most people are working. On the inquiry form you’ll see a drop down box, check to make sure you’re selecting the correct year and give a general day and month (it doesn’t have to be exact just yet.)
- Tell me about your dream location. Dream as big as you want! My travel fees for airbnb, flights, and car are all included so we can go anywhere you’d like. I have spent the last few years traveling all across the country, I’m excited to be your guide along the way. Some things to keep in mind are the weather and time of year. Some mountain landscapes are only accessible for a few short months of the year, so it’s important to book your vendors as soon as possible to have the best experience. Letting me know your ideal state or national park, beach, or venue is very helpful.
Step Three: Schedule A Phone Call With Me
This is equally exciting for me as it is for you! I get so excited to help couples skip out on the traditional wedding and get married in a meaningful and adventurous way. After I receive your inquiry I’ll shoot you an email that will have a link to schedule a call. From there we can chat ideas and get to know each other more (this is where the friendship starts). During this call I’ll be sure to give you my professional recommendation for what package would serve you best.
Step Four: Review Your Proposal And Sign Your Agreement
After our phone call I’ll shoot you an email with a little recap of everything we talked about and I’ll gather a proposal based on your ideas for your elopement as well as some ideas I have to add a little adventure into your day.
In your agreement you’ll find all of the details about working with us such as:
Location we’ve decided on for your elopement, a secured date, turn around time, cancellations, reschedules, etc.
This is the most important step: once your agreement is signed and deposit is paid, you’ve found your photographer!
Step Five: Let’s Get Planning
Ahhhh, the fun begins! Your agreement is signed, deposit is paid and you’re officially on our calendar.
The next email you’ll receive is full of planning information such as a custom location list and vendor recommendations (HMUA, officiants, etc.) and a little walk through of what each step is from here on out. If you have an iPhone I will create a note with you and your partners name and add you to it. Here we have a little shared “brain dump” if any ideas or questions come to mind this a good place to share thoughts and it’ll update us as we add to it.
We’ll have little check in’s here and there over email and the phone to make sure all is well and to stay in touch. I’m always here to answer any questions you may have!
Planning an elopement is such an exciting process and finding the right photographer is one of the best ways to make sure that your elopement day goes according to your vision and that you have lasting memories and photos that you can feel for years to come.
We hope this blog was helpful in guiding you through what to expect when you book with us. If you have any more questions, please feel free to contact us!
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