Disclaimer – This website contains affiliate links. We may earn a very small commission if you make a purchase using links on this site, at no extra cost to you. That’s how we can afford to keep this awesome site running!
Shawna, the photographer: When Kristy and Andrew contacted me, they told me they would be celebrating more than just their wedding; Kristy would also be coming straight from a triathlon in France. With Andrew as her number one supporter, they planned on making the drive out here the day after the race. I thought they were crazy, but I love having bad-ass clients, so I was ready to cheer her on via instagram as much as I could the few days before their elopement.
They wanted to choose a place that resonated with them in the Dolomites. After looking through my example galleries, they decided that all the places resonated with them. Hence why we ended up doing a 3 day elopement! Or, at least, that’s sort of why. We had actually planned it for two days, but with some sketchy weather and thanks to all of our flexibility, it ended up being 3. And it all started with their micro ceremony in Val di Funes, with Kristy’s sister as the officiant, and parents as guests.
Why Did the Couple Choose The Dolomites for Their Elopement?
Kristy & Andrew: We got engaged in the mountains and we wanted to pick a place that represented us. The natural beauty of the Dolomites was a perfect location. We aren’t the type of people to be the centre of attention and big weddings just weren’t our thing. An elopement really spoke to who we are as people and we love a good adventure!
What Makes The Dolomites Special for Elopements?
Kristy & Andrew: It’s a hike to get to the perfect spot, although the path was paved, it would be a challenge to get a big group up there.
Shawna, the photographer: The mountainscapes, so many epic locations, we really went all over the region and saw the best of the best of the tourist spots. The moody weather also played a role in making these photos epic; it was on and off snow/hail storms, and that made the light extra special.
Can You Get Legally Married in Italy?
Yes, you can legally get married in Italy as a non resident. Kristy & Andrew opted for a symbolic ceremony.
What Sustainability Considerations Were Made (if any) For This Elopement in The Dolomites?
Kristy & Andrew: We made sure we stayed on all marked paths to avoid damaging the natural beauty of each location.
Did the Couple Incorporate Any Cultural Aspects of Italy into Their Elopement?
Kristy & Andrew: Our hotel, Hotel Petrus, had some local wines and foods that they served during parts of our wedding.
What Was the Couple’s Experience with Getting Married in The Dolomites During September?
Kristy & Andrew: We’d recommend this time of year. Although the weather might be variable, it was not as busy as the peak times.
Shawna, the photographer: In my opinion, May, June, September, and October are the best times of year. But it depends on what you want to do. May and October might not be the best for you if you’re wanting to go up gondolas or do hut-to-hut hikes.
What Are the Best Tips for Planning an Elopement in The Dolomites?
Kristy & Andrew: Hire a local photographer and be prepared for your plans to change! Mountain weather changed our plans. We expanded our elopement to 3 days so we could explore more places and grouped the hikes that were close together. Hiring a local photographer helped us map out and change our itinerary the day of. It all worked out in the end and we visited the most beautiful places.
Shawna, the photographer: Hire a pro! It’s incredibly hard to plan a destination wedding/elopement without hiring local guides, or at least people who have been several times and truly know what they’re doing. The weather also is no joke, if you don’t know how to prepare and when to call it quits, you can get into trouble. Starting with a photographer/planner who is super familiar with the area and the conditions is key.
How Did the Couple Personalize Their Elopement?
Kristy & Andrew: We wrote our own vows and planned a day that really represented us. From a quiet breakfast in our hotel to watching the sunset on a mountain side. We did the same things that we love to do as a couple.
What Challenges Did the Couple Face While Planning Their Elopement in The Dolomites, and How Did They Overcome Them?
Kristy & Andrew: The morning of our wedding day, it was pouring rain with no sign of stopping. We contacted our photographer to reschedule to our backup day, the next day. She helped us rearrange our itinerary to only check out of the hotel that same day and see clear, sunny skies. We have to thank Shawna for being so flexible and agreeing to switch back to our original plan that day. Shawna also helped us planned our other 2 days so we could visit as many destinations as possible. She was a huge help!
What Advice Would the Couple Give to Others Planning an Elopement in The Dolomites?
Kristy & Andrew: Hire a local photographer to help you plan where you go. This helped us immensely when we were planning this trip from home. Some locations are popular and get busy during certain hours, so having a local help us plan in order to avoid lines was super helpful!
What Were the Most Memorable Moments from This Elopement?
Kristy & Andrew: The hike up the mountain in Val Di Funes and watching the sunset over the mountains.
Why Is The Dolomites One of the Best Places to Get Married in Europe?
Kristy & Andrew: The stunning views! If you’ve seen any pictures of the Dolomites, you know that every location is jaw dropping. We wanted to pick a place that didn’t need any decorations. The Dolomites delivered!
