50 Fun Activities to Personalise your Elopement
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When it comes to elopement planning, it’s not unusual for couples to struggle with what else to do on their elopement day before and/or after they have exchanged their vows.
When you’re planning a traditional wedding it’s easy. You pretty much just follow the “traditional” series of events that everyone expects to have at a wedding. But with elopements, because there’s not set way of doing things, it can be hard to chose how to spend that time you’ve been gifted by not having a big wedding. We understand that even when someone tells you “you can do anything you want”, it can be hard to picture how the day might look if you’ve got no frame of reference or starting point.
When I’m helping my clients to plan their elopement days, I like to get to know them and the things that they are interested in, so that I can help suggest fun activities that are available to them in the area where they are eloping. So I thought I’d also ask the European Elopement Guide vendor community for their suggestions too, so that you have a whole range of fun activities to choose from to make your elopement personal to you.
What sort of activities can you do on an elopement day?
Firstly, who says an elopement needs to be just one day? You can make it last as many days as you want to, especially if you’ve chosen a destination where there are many activities that you want to experience while you are there.
In this article, we’re going to share some of our favourites from across the community, so that you can be inspired to plan some incredibly fun activities into your elopement to make it personal to you.
Summer Outdoor activities
Hiking
Hit the trails, spend some quiet time in nature and experience breathtaking scenery by choosing to go hiking on your elopement.
Cycling
City, road or mountain bikes. Why not choose this green transport option on your elopement day and also make it a part of your fun adventure?
➡️ Check out this real bike & kayak elopement in Stockholm
Boat on a lake
Whether it’s a speedboat trip on Lake Como, or a paddle boat on an alpine lake, boat rides never go out of style!
➡️ Check out this dreamy Lake Como micro-wedding.
SUP
Going for a paddleboard on your wedding day might not be for everyone, but for some couples, it’s the perfect activity to personalise their day.
➡️ Check out this stunning Swiss SUP elopement
Sailing
Opting for a sailing wedding infuses your special day with an enchanting sense of adventure and romance, as you exchange vows amidst the boundless beauty of the open sea, creating timeless memories against the backdrop of breathtaking ocean vistas. With the gentle sway of the boat and the soothing sound of waves as your soundtrack, a sailing wedding offers an intimate and unforgettable setting, perfect for celebrating love’s journey into uncharted waters.
Paragliding
Paragliding provides an exhilarating and unparalleled backdrop for exchanging vows, offering a thrilling start to your journey as a married couple as you soar together through the sky, bound by love and adventure. With sweeping panoramic views and the rush of wind in your hair, a paragliding wedding promises a truly unforgettable and breathtaking experience, marking the beginning of your union with an unforgettable high.
Via Ferrata
A wedding on a via ferrata promises an extraordinary celebration of love and courage, as you exchange vows while navigating rugged cliffs and breathtaking landscapes, symbolizing your commitment to overcoming challenges together. With each step secured by iron rungs and cables, a via ferrata wedding combines the thrill of adventure with the profound symbolism of forging a strong and resilient partnership, making it a truly unforgettable union amidst nature’s grandeur.
Europe offers numerous spectacular via ferrata routes for adventurers seeking exhilarating mountain experiences. Some notable locations include:
- Dolomites, Italy: The Dolomites are renowned for their stunning via ferrata routes, offering breathtaking views and challenging climbs. Popular routes include the Via Ferrata delle Bocchette in Brenta Dolomites and the Via Ferrata Tridentina near Cortina d’Ampezzo.
- French Alps, France: The French Alps boast a variety of via ferrata routes, ranging from beginner-friendly to more advanced. Some notable locations include the Via Ferrata du Diable in Alpe d’Huez and the Via Ferrata de la Grande Fistoire in La Grave.
- Swiss Alps, Switzerland: Switzerland offers stunning via ferrata routes amidst its majestic mountain scenery. The Klettersteig Mürren-Gimmelwald and the Via Ferrata Täschalp in Zermatt are popular choices for adventurous climbers.
- Austrian Alps, Austria: Austria features numerous via ferrata routes, providing stunning views and challenging climbs. The Kaiserkrone Via Ferrata in the Wilder Kaiser region and the Stuibenfall Via Ferrata in the Ötztal Valley are notable options.
- Pyrenees, Spain and France: The Pyrenees offer via ferrata routes with dramatic landscapes and diverse challenges. The Via Ferrata de la Cala del Moli in Spain’s Catalonia region and the Via Ferrata de les Escaldes in Andorra are worth exploring.
These are just a few examples of the many via ferrata routes available throughout Europe, each offering its own unique combination of adventure, scenery, and excitement. Before embarking on any via ferrata, it’s essential to ensure you have the necessary skills, equipment, and knowledge of the route’s difficulty level.
Climbing
A rock climbing wedding epitomizes the spirit of unity and trust, as you ascend together to new heights, symbolizing the strength of your bond and your shared journey ahead. Against the backdrop of majestic cliffs and stunning vistas, exchanging vows on the rock face creates a uniquely intimate and unforgettable experience, marking the beginning of your marriage with a thrilling adventure and a testament to your ability to conquer challenges together.
Wild Swimming
Wild swimming offers a beautifully raw and intimate setting, symbolizing your commitment to embracing life’s adventures together. Surrounded by the tranquil serenity of lakes, rivers, or waterfalls, wild swimming creates a deeply personal and unforgettable moment, immersing you in the purity of nature and marking the start of your married life with a refreshing plunge into love’s depths.
Diving or Snorkelling
Who says your adventures need to be above water. If you are fascinated by the underwater world, then why not plan a snorkel or diving adventure as part of your elopement.
Europe offers a variety of stunning scuba diving destinations with diverse marine life, underwater landscapes, and historical wrecks. Some of the best places to go scuba diving in Europe include:
- Malta: Known for its crystal-clear waters and impressive dive sites, Malta offers a wealth of underwater exploration opportunities, including reefs, caves, and historic wrecks such as the Um El Faroud and the HMS Maori.
- Croatia: The Adriatic coast of Croatia is home to beautiful dive sites with vibrant marine life, underwater caves, and intriguing rock formations. Locations like the Kornati Islands and the Vis Archipelago are popular among divers.
- Azores, Portugal: The Azores archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean boasts remarkable dive sites with volcanic underwater landscapes, encounters with large marine species like mantas and whales, and unique geological formations such as underwater lava tunnels.
- Greece: Greece offers diverse diving experiences, from exploring ancient shipwrecks in the Aegean Sea to discovering underwater caves and reefs in destinations like Crete, Santorini, and Zakynthos.
- Spain: Spain’s Canary Islands, particularly Lanzarote and Tenerife, are renowned for their exceptional diving opportunities, including encounters with marine life such as rays, moray eels, and colorful fish amidst volcanic formations.
- Turkey: The Turkish Riviera along the Mediterranean coast offers excellent diving conditions with warm waters, rich biodiversity, and fascinating underwater landscapes, including caves, walls, and coral reefs.
- Norway: For more adventurous divers, Norway’s fjords provide cold-water diving experiences with stunning underwater scenery, kelp forests, and the chance to encounter unique marine life like wolf fish and sea anemones.
These are just a few examples of the fantastic scuba diving destinations Europe has to offer. Each location provides its own distinct underwater experiences, making it ideal for divers of all skill levels and interests.
Helicopter Tour
Embarking on a helicopter tour on your wedding day elevates the celebration to new heights, offering unparalleled views and a sense of grandeur that perfectly complements the significance of the occasion. As you soar above breathtaking landscapes, exchanging vows or simply enjoying the awe-inspiring scenery together, the helicopter tour adds a thrilling and unforgettable adventure to your special day, creating lasting memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.
Camping
Opting for a camping wedding invites you to exchange vows beneath the starlit sky, surrounded by the tranquillity of nature’s embrace, fostering an intimate connection with each other and the great outdoors. Whether you choose a remote wilderness spot or a scenic campground, camping offers a unique opportunity to celebrate your love amidst the simplicity and beauty of nature, creating cherished memories around a crackling campfire and under a canopy of stars, marking the beginning of your married life with a sense of adventure, authenticity, and togetherness.
Kayak or Canoe
Embarking on a kayak or canoe adventure on your wedding day promises a serene and intimate celebration, as you paddle together through tranquil waters, surrounded by the beauty of nature and each other’s company. With the gentle rhythm of the paddle strokes setting the pace, exchanging vows or simply enjoying the peaceful serenity of the surroundings creates a deeply meaningful and unforgettable moment, symbolizing the journey you’re embarking on together as a married couple, while immersing yourselves in the beauty of the natural world.
➡️ Check out this real bike & kayak elopement in Stockholm
Stargazing
If you’re doing an overnight trip, or staying somewhere with low light pollution, why not get cozy together under the stars and marvel at the beauty of the night sky.
Hot Air Balloon Ride
Opting for a hot air balloon ride during your elopement offers a breathtaking and romantic way to celebrate your love from new heights. It’s an exhilarating and unforgettable experience that allows you to soar above the world together, taking in panoramic views of the stunning landscape below. Embracing the adventure of a hot air balloon ride lets you both share in the excitement of exploration and discovery, creating cherished memories as you float serenely through the sky, basking in the beauty of the moment and the warmth of your love.
Winter Outdoor Activities
Weddings aren’t just summer events. In fact, we absolutely adore winter elopements. Sure, they might be cold, but how can you resist the snowy magic of winter.
Here are some of our favorite wedding wedding activities you could include in your elopement:
Skiing or Snowboarding
Skiing or snowboarding on your wedding day transforms the celebration into a thrilling winter wonderland adventure, as you carve down pristine slopes together, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and crisp alpine air. Whether you exchange vows atop a snowy peak or enjoy a post-ceremony run down the slopes, the exhilarating rush of adrenaline and the breathtaking scenery create unforgettable moments, marking the start of your marriage with a unique blend of excitement, romance, and adventure amidst the beauty of the winter landscape.
Northern Lights Chasing
Seeing the northern lights might not be something you can count on, but how incredible would it be to witness them on your wedding day.
➡️ Check out our full guide to Eloping under the Northern Lights
Snowshoe Hiking
Snowshoe hiking on your wedding day offers a picturesque and intimate way to exchange vows amidst the tranquil beauty of a winter wonderland, as you trek through pristine snow-covered landscapes hand in hand. With each step leaving impressions in the glistening snow, the serene ambience and stunning vistas provide the perfect backdrop for a heartfelt ceremony, symbolizing your commitment to journeying through life together, even through the snowiest of paths.
Tobogganing
Tobogganing on your wedding day infuses the celebration with laughter, exhilaration, and pure joy as you glide down snowy slopes together, surrounded by the festive ambience of winter. Whether you exchange vows at the peak of a hill or enjoy a post-ceremony ride with friends and family, tobogganing creates unforgettable memories filled with the thrill of adventure and the warmth of shared moments, marking the beginning of your marriage with playful fun and cherished laughter in the midst of winter’s embrace.
Paragliding
Paragliding isn’t just a summer activity. It can be a fun activity in winter too. Just make sure you wrap up warm!
Snowmobiling
Snowmobiling on your wedding day promises an adrenaline-fueled adventure, as you race across snow-covered landscapes, surrounded by the beauty of winter’s pristine scenery. Whether exchanging vows amidst the snowy expanse or enjoying a post-ceremony ride with loved ones, the exhilarating speed and breathtaking views create unforgettable moments, marking the start of your marriage with excitement, adventure, and the thrill of the open snow-covered trails.
Ice Sculpting
Taking an ice sculpting workshop on your wedding day adds a unique and artistic dimension to your celebration, as you and your partner create beautiful sculptures together, symbolizing your creative collaboration and shared commitment to shaping your future. With expert guidance, you’ll transform blocks of ice into stunning works of art, fostering teamwork and bonding in a truly memorable and hands-on experience.
Sleep in an Ice Hotel
Spending your wedding night in an ice hotel offers a magical and unforgettable experience, as you and your partner cozy up amidst the shimmering beauty of frozen architecture and intricate ice sculptures. Wrapped in warm bedding and surrounded by the ethereal glow of ice, you’ll create cherished memories as you celebrate your love in a truly unique and enchanting setting. The experience of sleeping in an ice hotel is not only adventurous but also symbolic, signifying your willingness to embrace the challenges and beauty of life together, making your wedding night an extraordinary beginning to your married journey.
In Europe, you can find ice hotels offering unique and unforgettable accommodations. Some notable ice hotels include:
- ICEHOTEL, Sweden: Located in Jukkasjärvi, Sweden, ICEHOTEL is perhaps the most famous ice hotel in the world. It features stunning ice sculptures, ice rooms, and even an ice bar. Guests can stay in individually designed ice rooms, each with its own unique theme.
- Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, Norway: Situated in Alta, Norway, Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel offers a magical Arctic experience. Guests can sleep in cozy thermal sleeping bags on beds made of ice and snow, surrounded by beautifully carved ice sculptures.
- Iglu-Dorf, Austria, Switzerland and Germany: Iglu-Dorf operates several igloo villages in Switzerland and Germany, offering overnight stays in igloos made of snow and ice. Guests can enjoy cozy sleeping bags and warm accommodations amidst stunning mountain landscapes.
Horse-drawn Sleigh Ride
Arriving at your wedding in a horse-drawn sleigh adds a touch of timeless romance and fairy-tale charm to your special day, as you and your partner glide through winter wonderlands surrounded by the enchanting beauty of snow-covered landscapes. The gentle jingle of sleigh bells and the cozy warmth of blankets create an intimate and magical atmosphere, setting the stage for a celebration filled with love and nostalgia. Embarking on this enchanting journey symbolizes the start of your new chapter together, embracing tradition and creating unforgettable memories amidst the serene beauty of the winter season.
Ice Skating
Opting for ice skating on your wedding day brings a delightful blend of grace, joy, and shared laughter, as you and your partner glide hand in hand across the glistening ice, surrounded by the festive ambiance of winter. Whether you exchange vows on the ice or enjoy a post-ceremony skate with friends and family, the rhythmic motion and sparkling surroundings create unforgettable moments, marking the start of your marriage with playful fun and cherished memories in the enchanting embrace of winter.
Glacier tour
A glacier tour offers a thrilling adventure through breathtaking icy landscapes, providing a unique opportunity to witness the raw power and beauty of nature up close. Exploring ancient glaciers allows you to marvel at towering ice formations, shimmering blue ice caves, and stunning crevasses, creating unforgettable memories amidst the pristine wilderness.
In Europe, you can experience glacier tours in several locations:
- Switzerland: Explore the majestic Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps, located in the Jungfrau region. Guided tours offer the chance to hike across the glacier’s surface or venture into its mesmerizing ice caves.
- Austria: Visit the stunning Pasterze Glacier, nestled beneath Austria’s highest peak, Grossglockner. Guided tours allow you to hike along the glacier’s edge and witness its dramatic retreat, offering insights into the effects of climate change.
- Iceland: Discover the otherworldly landscapes of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, located in southeastern Iceland. Guided glacier hikes and ice cave explorations provide unparalleled views of the glacier’s surreal beauty.
- Norway: Experience the magic of Norway’s glaciers, such as Jostedalsbreen, located in Jostedalsbreen National Park. Guided glacier walks offer the chance to traverse the ice and learn about the region’s geological history.
Each of these glacier tours offers a unique and awe-inspiring adventure, allowing you to connect with nature in a profound and unforgettable way while witnessing the stunning beauty of Europe’s icy landscapes.
Animal Experiences
Dog sledding
Dog sledding in Europe offers an exhilarating way to experience the winter wilderness and bond with huskies and other sled dogs. Some popular destinations for dog sledding in Europe include:
- Swedish Lapland, Sweden: Swedish Lapland, particularly the regions around Kiruna and Abisko, offers vast expanses of pristine snow-covered landscapes ideal for dog sledding adventures. Visitors can embark on multi-day expeditions through snowy forests and across frozen lakes, enjoying the magical Arctic scenery along the way.
- Norwegian Arctic, Norway: Norway’s Arctic regions, such as Tromsø and Svalbard, provide fantastic opportunities for dog sledding experiences. Adventurers can traverse snowy terrain, venture into remote wilderness areas, and even embark on overnight expeditions under the Northern Lights.
- Finland: Finland offers numerous dog sledding opportunities throughout Lapland, with popular destinations including Rovaniemi, Levi, and Kuusamo. Visitors can enjoy day trips or multi-day safaris through snowy forests, learning about traditional sled dog breeds and experiencing the thrill of mushing.
- Zermat, Swiss Alps: In the Swiss Alps, particularly in regions like Zermatt, visitors can enjoy dog sledding experiences against the stunning backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Day trips or shorter excursions are available, providing a taste of the exhilarating sport of mushing.
- Austria: Certain regions of Austria, such as Tyrol and Salzburg, offer dog sledding experiences amidst picturesque alpine scenery. Visitors can enjoy guided tours through snowy landscapes, learning about the history of dog sledding and interacting with friendly huskies and other sled dogs.
These destinations provide unforgettable dog sledding experiences, allowing visitors to connect with nature, experience the thrill of mushing, and forge lasting bonds with their canine companions amidst the beauty of winter in Europe.
Reindeer sleigh
Take a ride through the frozen wilderness and learn about indigenous culture with a reReindeer sleigh rides offer a magical and unforgettable experience, making them a wonderful activity for couples on their wedding day.
In Europe, you can experience reindeer sleigh rides in several locations:
- Lapland, Finland: Lapland is perhaps the most famous destination for reindeer sleigh rides. In places like Rovaniemi, Levi, and Saariselkä, couples can enjoy magical rides through snowy forests and meet friendly reindeer.
- Norwegian Arctic, Norway: Norway’s Arctic regions, including Tromsø and Alta, offer reindeer sleigh rides against the stunning backdrop of fjords and snow-capped mountains. It’s a romantic experience that’s perfect for couples seeking adventure and natural beauty.
- Swedish Lapland, Sweden: Swedish Lapland, particularly around Kiruna and Jokkmokk, provides opportunities for couples to enjoy reindeer sleigh rides in serene and remote wilderness areas. It’s a peaceful and romantic experience that captures the magic of the Arctic.
Alpaca hiking
Alpaca hiking offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and adorable companionship, as these gentle creatures accompany you through scenic trails, adding a touch of calm and camaraderie to your trekking experience. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, sharing the trail with alpacas adds a unique and memorable dimension to your outdoor elopement.
Farm Tour
Why not get immersed in local life in your elopement destination, and take a tour of a local farm where you can meet the animals, try local foods and learn about life in that region?
➡️ Check out this full Swiss Mountain Elopement here
Horse Riding
Europe offers a variety of stunning destinations for horse riding enthusiasts, with diverse landscapes ranging from rugged mountains to picturesque countryside. Here are some of the best places to go horse riding in Europe:
- Andalusia, Spain: Known for its rich equestrian tradition, Andalusia offers breathtaking landscapes and the opportunity to ride Spanish horses through olive groves, vineyards, and along sandy beaches. The Sierra Nevada mountains also provide fantastic riding trails with spectacular views.
- Tuscany, Italy: Tuscany’s rolling hills, vineyards, and historic villages make it an idyllic setting for horse riding adventures. Riders can explore the picturesque countryside, ride through vineyards, and discover charming medieval towns atop well-trained Italian horses.
- The Scottish Highlands, Scotland: The rugged terrain and wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands offer exhilarating riding experiences. Riders can explore dramatic landscapes, traverse heather-covered moors, and gallop along pristine beaches while immersing themselves in Scotland’s rich history and culture.
- The Ring of Kerry, Ireland: Ireland’s Ring of Kerry provides stunning coastal scenery and lush green landscapes, perfect for horse riding excursions. Riders can journey along ancient trails, explore historic sites, and enjoy the warm hospitality of traditional Irish equestrian centers.
- The Alentejo Region, Portugal: The Alentejo region in southern Portugal offers vast plains, cork forests, and scenic coastal trails ideal for horse riding adventures. Riders can experience the region’s rural charm, encounter local wildlife, and ride through picturesque villages steeped in history.
- The Lake District, England: The Lake District National Park in northwest England boasts stunning scenery with tranquil lakes, rugged mountains, and verdant valleys. Horse riding enthusiasts can explore scenic trails, ride along bridleways, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
- The Balkan Mountains, Bulgaria: Bulgaria’s Balkan Mountains offer diverse landscapes and excellent riding opportunities. Riders can explore forested valleys, meander through alpine meadows, and discover hidden waterfalls while experiencing the region’s rich cultural heritage.
These destinations offer unforgettable horse riding experiences amidst some of Europe’s most stunning landscapes, providing riders with the opportunity to connect with nature, experience local culture, and embark on thrilling adventures on horseback.
Horse-drawn Carriage Ride
If you don’t fancy riding a horse on your wedding day, but still want horses involved, we don’t think there’s anything that screams fairytale wedding more than a horse and carriage ride. Don’t you agree?
Whale Watching
Whale watching in Europe offers an incredible opportunity to witness these majestic marine mammals in their natural habitat and experience the beauty of the ocean. Here are some of the best places for whale watching in Europe:
- Azores, Portugal: The Azores archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean is one of the best whale-watching destinations in the world. Visitors can spot a variety of whale species, including sperm whales, fin whales, and blue whales, as well as dolphins and other marine life.
- Husavik, Iceland: Husavik is often referred to as the whale-watching capital of Iceland. Located on the country’s north coast, it offers excellent opportunities to see humpback whales, minke whales, and even the occasional orca, against the backdrop of stunning Icelandic scenery.
- Norway: Norway’s fjords provide breathtaking settings for whale watching. Places like Andenes in the Lofoten Islands and Tromsø in northern Norway offer chances to see orcas, humpback whales, and sperm whales, particularly during the winter months.
- Madeira, Portugal: Madeira is a popular whale-watching destination due to its year-round mild climate and abundance of marine life. Visitors can embark on boat tours to spot species such as short-finned pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, and even the occasional blue whale.
- Gibraltar: Located at the southern tip of Spain, Gibraltar is known for its resident population of playful bottlenose dolphins. Visitors can take boat trips from the harbor to see these charismatic marine mammals in their natural habitat, often accompanied by stunning views of the Rock of Gibraltar.
- Northeast Scotland: The Moray Firth on Scotland’s northeast coast is home to the UK’s largest resident population of bottlenose dolphins. Boat trips from places like Inverness and Cromarty offer opportunities to see these dolphins, as well as other species such as minke whales and porpoises.
These destinations offer memorable whale-watching experiences, allowing visitors to connect with nature, learn about marine conservation, and witness the beauty of these magnificent creatures in the wild.
Cultural Activities
Visit a museum or gallery
As lovers of history, art, or culture, opting for a museum or gallery visit on your non-traditional wedding day can be a meaningful choice. It allows you to indulge in your shared passions, explore fascinating exhibits together, and create memorable moments that reflect your unique bond and interests as a couple.
Sightseeing
Incorporating sightseeing into your destination wedding itinerary offers you and your guests the opportunity to explore and immerse yourselves in the unique culture, landmarks, and attractions of your chosen location. It adds an element of adventure and discovery to your wedding festivities, allowing you to create lasting memories while experiencing the beauty and charm of the destination together.
Advice from Lina & Tom: If you’re taking photos in a busy area where locals live or work, ask permission or reassure them you’re taking photos of yourselves (the couple) and not of them. Be respectful of people’s privacy.
Go to a concert or Festival
Attending a concert during your elopement adds an intimate and exhilarating touch to your special day, creating unforgettable memories as you celebrate your love surrounded by the electrifying energy of live music. It offers a unique opportunity for you both to share in the magic of the moment, dancing together and immersing yourselves in the rhythm and melodies that resonate with your hearts.
Food & Drink Experiences
Wine tasting
Embarking on a wine tasting adventure during your elopement lets you delve into the rich culture and flavors of your destination, deepening your connection while exploring new vineyards and wines together. It’s a chance to indulge in your shared passion for wine, discover the unique terroir of the region, and create authentic memories that reflect your love for each other and your love of exploration.
Brewery or distillery tour
Choosing to visit a brewery or distillery during your elopement gives you both a chance to enjoy local flavors and experience something fun together. It’s a laid-back way to celebrate your love and learn about the area you’re exploring, all while enjoying some great drinks.
Private chef
Opting for a private chef during your elopement offers a luxurious and personalized dining experience, allowing you to indulge in gourmet cuisine without the hassle of cooking or dining out. It’s a special treat that elevates your celebration, providing an intimate atmosphere where you can savor exquisite dishes crafted just for you, while enjoying each other’s company in the comfort of your chosen location. Hiring a private chef adds a touch of sophistication and culinary delight to your elopement, creating unforgettable moments and indulging in the finer things in life together.
Picnic
Opting for a picnic during your elopement offers a relaxed and intimate way to celebrate your love while enjoying the beauty of nature and the local surroundings. It’s a simple yet meaningful experience that allows you to savor delicious food together, create cherished memories, and bask in the joy of being together in a serene outdoor setting.
Cooking together
Choosing to cook together during your elopement is a cozy and intimate way to bond over a shared activity while creating delicious memories in the comfort of your own space. It’s a down-to-earth experience that allows you to connect through the joy of preparing a meal together, savoring each moment as you chop, stir, and taste your way to a delightful culinary masterpiece.
Foraging
Choosing to go foraging during your elopement is an adventurous and hands-on way to connect with nature and the local environment. It’s a down-to-earth experience that allows you to explore the wilderness together, discovering edible treasures and connecting with the land in a unique and meaningful way. By foraging for your own food, you can create a truly authentic and memorable dining experience, showcasing the bounty of nature and celebrating your love for each other and the great outdoors.
Farmers Market
A fabulous way to connect with your elopement destination is to visit a local farmer’s market. This isn’t only a great opportunity to connect with the people who live there and get a glimse of daily life, but it’s also a great way to embrace sustainability, by purchasing your wedding bouquet or picnic from small local businesses.
The Pub
Especially in the UK or Ireland, nothing quite beats going to the pub for a pint, so why not make that part of your elopement day. Choosing to celebrate at the pub during your elopement offers a relaxed and cozy atmosphere to enjoy each other’s company and toast to your love. It’s a down-to-earth and authentic way to celebrate your union, surrounded by the warmth of good company, hearty food, and your favorite drinks. Embracing the laid-back vibe of a pub allows you to create cherished memories as you revel in the joy of being together in a casual and welcoming setting.
➡️ Check out this full Irish elopement at Kinbane Castle
Other Ideas
Get Tattoos
Opting to get tattoos during your elopement is a bold and meaningful way to commemorate your commitment to each other. It’s a deeply personal and permanent expression of your love and partnership, symbolizing your bond in a unique and lasting way. By getting matching or complementary tattoos, you can carry a piece of your elopement day with you wherever you go, serving as a constant reminder of the love and connection you share.
Cuddle up with a movie
Opting to cuddle up with a movie during your elopement is a cozy and intimate way to celebrate your love in the comfort of your own space. It’s a relaxed and romantic activity that allows you to unwind together, sharing laughs, tears, and moments of connection as you enjoy a favorite film or discover something new. Embracing the simplicity of a movie night lets you focus on each other and create cherished memories as you snuggle close and enjoy the magic of the silver screen.
Funfair or Theme Park
Choosing to visit a theme park or funfair during your elopement adds an element of excitement and adventure to your special day. It’s a fun and playful way to celebrate your love, filled with laughter, thrills, and shared experiences on exhilarating rides and attractions. Embracing the vibrant atmosphere of a theme park or funfair allows you to let loose and create unforgettable memories as you enjoy the excitement and wonder of the amusement park together, reveling in the joy of being young at heart and in love.
Board games
Opting for board games during your elopement offers a cozy and intimate way to bond over shared interests and friendly competition. It’s a laid-back and nostalgic activity that allows you to relax and enjoy each other’s company in a fun and interactive way. Embracing the simplicity of board games lets you focus on laughter, strategy, and connection, creating cherished memories as you play together and celebrate the joy of being in love.
Spa Day
Choosing a spa day before or after your elopement offers a luxurious and relaxing way to pamper yourselves, unwind together and forget the stresses of wedding planning. Embracing the tranquillity of a spa day lets you both relax, recharge, and connect in a peaceful and soothing environment, creating cherished memories as you bask in the bliss of being pampered and in love.
Flea Market/Thrifting
Opting for a flea market or thrift store adventure during your elopement offers a unique and eclectic way to explore your destination while discovering hidden treasures together. It’s a fun and budget-friendly activity that allows you to hunt for vintage finds, quirky souvenirs, and one-of-a-kind mementoes to commemorate your special day. Embracing the charm of flea markets or thrift stores lets you wander hand in hand, sharing laughs and stories as you uncover unexpected gems and create cherished memories amidst the vibrant hustle and bustle of the marketplace.
Yoga & Meditation
Choosing yoga and meditation during your elopement offers a serene and grounding way to connect with yourselves and each other on a deeper level. It’s a mindful and introspective activity that allows you to centre your thoughts, release stress, and cultivate a sense of inner peace together. Embracing the practice of yoga and meditation lets you both relax, breathe, and quiet the mind, creating a tranquil space for reflection, gratitude, and connection as you embark on this journey of love and commitment.
Elopement Activity FAQs
How do we fit Activities into our schedule?
When choosing which activities you’d love to include in your elopement day, start to consider this while you are still deciding on your location and booking your vendors. Your chosen activities may guide you to the best location, and from there you can find the best local vendors to help you plan everything. And don’t worry that it all has to fit into one day. Many couples combine their elopement and honeymoon, and make it last multiple days.
Do we have to wear our wedding clothes the whole time?
It’s totally up to you! As you can see from the photos in the article, couples don’t always wear their wedding outfits for all activities. In some cases, your wedding clothes might be unsuitable (or simply uncomfortable) for your chosen activities. If you’d rather wear something else so that you don’t draw too much attention, that’s absolutely fine. While photos in your wedding clothes are lovely, your elopement isn’t one big photo opportunity. It’s about creating memories you’ll cherish for the rest of your lives together.