National Park Elopement: Pros, Tips, and Safety Essentials for Your Intimate Wedding

Although there are so many beautiful wedding venues, honestly, to me nothing beats a small intimate wedding in nature whether it be a national park, the top of a mountain, a beautiful dense forest, or a desert! Yeah, those ballrooms are nice and all, but seriously, can any of that compare to the real deal outside? There is some sort of sacredness you can't find anywhere else than the great outdoors and many couples are starting to see it since adventure elopements are getting more and more popular!

So if you decide to get married in the wild, you will have to follow some rules to protect mother nature and keep everything exactly as it was and, of course, keep you and your loved ones safe!

Here are some basic guidelines you should follow for your adventure wedding:

The Pros of Getting Married in The Wilderness

You and your beloved, a stunning backdrop of Mother Nature, and no stress in sight! Studies show that about 70% of couples feel less anxious when eloping versus planning a grand wedding. It’s easy to see why! Embracing the beauty of the wild allows you to create lasting memories, free from all the anxiety that comes with planning the big traditional wedding. Still, adventure elopements can be unpredictable regarding the weather, terrain and wildlife, so you better be prepared!

Here are some tips you should follow when planning;

Essential Tips for a Stress-Free Nature Elopement

1. Be Mindful of Accessibility

One of the things you have to keep in mind when planning your destination elopement is accessibility. Whether you’re envisioning your wedding ceremony on a high mountaintop or in a secluded, private location, accessibility is crucial for you, your guests, and your vendors. It's highly advised, especially if you're not an experienced driver, to rent a local driver who knows the area well, so you can relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about navigating a country you have never visited before!

2. What to Pack For My Nature Elopement?

Nature surely is breathtaking but it can be dangerous if you're not well prepared! Here's what you should definitely pack in your bag when travelling:

• First Aid Kit: For those minor scrapes and bumps.

  
  

• Water and Snacks: Keep hydrated and energized with trail mix or energy bars.

  
  

• Map and Compass/GPS: Don’t solely rely on your phone; have additional navigation tools.

  
  

• Appropriate Clothing: Dress in layers for unpredictable weather and wear comfy shoes for trekking.

  
  

• Emergency Equipment: A whistle, flashlight, or portable charger could be lifesavers!

3. Plan for the Unexpected

Nature loves to keep us on our toes. Have a backup plan ready! Scout alternate locations or nearby indoor options, just in case the weather decides to misbehave. And don’t forget to share your plans with a trusted friend or family member!

4.Treat Nature with the Respect She Deserves

Weddings in nature are undeniably magical, but it’s crucial to follow some key do’s and don’ts to maintain harmony with the great outdoors:

• Stay on marked trails - staying on marked trails helps preserve the natural landscape, ensuring that plant life and ecosystems aren’t trampled or disturbed. Plus, trails are often created for safety, so you reduce your chances of getting lost!

• Drive only on roads - when you stick to designated roads, you’re minimizing your impact on the environment and preventing soil erosion. Off-roading can create ruts and damage habitats, which is the last thing we want to do while trying to enjoy nature

• Camp in designated zones - camping in designated areas protects sensitive environments from excessive wear and tear. These zones are often chosen for safety and convenience, making your camping trip more enjoyable.

• Respect wildlife - keeping a safe distance from wildlife not only ensures your safety but also allows animals to carry on with their natural behaviors without undue stress. Remember, we’re guests in their home, so let’s keep it that way and observe from afar!

Ready to Take the Leap?

With a little planning and plenty of love, your nature elopement can be the romantic adventure of your dreams! Remember to cherish the beauty surrounding you and keep safety at the forefront of your magical day.

Happy planning!

Matea