10/16/2025
When planning your intimate wedding, you may want to consider a sunrise elopement! There’s nothing quite as magical as exchanging vows while the first light of day paints the sky with shades of pink, gold, and purple. A sunrise elopement offers more privacy, peace, and breathtaking beauty that you can’t find at any other time of day. We all know those beautiful views with the tips of the mountains begin to illuminate! If you’re dreaming of a mountaintop ceremony, here’s everything you need to on how to plan the perfect sunrise elopement.
Timing Is Everything! One of the most important aspects of a sunrise elopement is timing. Unlike a traditional ceremony, this requires a bit more planning and flexibility.
Breakfast on the Summit! Starting your wedding day with a cozy picnic is such a memorable touch. Some fun ideas for your elopement breakfast spread include: fresh pastries from a local bakery, bagels, a charcuterie board with fruit, cheese, and crackers, hot coffee or tea in a thermos, champagne or mimosas for a celebratory toast! Your breakfast can be as simple or as indulgent as you’d like! It’s about starting your marriage in a way that feels true to you so bring your favorite breakfast foods to celebrate!
Every season brings its own kind of beauty, but some times of year are better suited for mountain elopements:
-Spring: Crisp/cold mornings, blooming wildflowers, and fewer crowds.
-Summer: Warm weather and clear trails, but be prepared for earlier sunrise times.
-Fall: Cool, comfortable hiking weather with stunning foliage. Arguably the best season for a mountain sunrise but brings out a lot of people.
-Winter: Snowy landscapes and sparkling skies, but only if you’re experienced with hiking in very cold temps and in snow/ice.
Extra Tips for an Unforgettable Sunrise Elopement:
-Scout your location ahead of time.
-Hire an experienced elopement photographer!
-Bring hand warmers and extra socks.
-Trails are often quieter during the week, giving you more privacy. Even if you aren’t planning a sunrise elopement, I highly recommend picking a weekday over a weekend. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did!