Explore activities that you can do in the heart of Southwest Virginia that you’re bound to enjoy AND will want to implement in your elopement timeline.
Eloping is an increasingly popular choice for couples who want an intimate and meaningful wedding experience. Southwest Virginia, with its picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and rich culture, offers a perfect backdrop for an elopement timeline filled with adventure and romance. Check out some of the elopement activities below that you could potentially include in your elopement timeline.
Exchange Vows at a Scenic Overlook
One of the most popular and picturesque elopement activities in Southwest Virginia is exchanging vows at a scenic overlook. The Blue Ridge Parkway, known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” offers numerous breathtaking spots for your ceremony. Places like McAfee Knob, Sharp Top Mountain, and Mabry Mill provide stunning backdrops of rolling hills, lush forests, and serene lakes. The beauty of these overlooks makes for a memorable and romantic start to your journey together.
Hike to Your Wedding Destination
If you love the outdoors, incorporating a hike into your elopement timeline can add an adventurous twist to your celebration. Southwest Virginia is home to a multitude of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging treks. Consider hiking to your chosen ceremony location for a unique and intimate experience. Popular options include McAfee Knob and Cascades Falls. These trails offer beautiful scenery and a sense of accomplishment that will make your elopement even more special.
Dip into Waterfront Bliss
Seeking a refreshing twist to your elopement day? Row, kayak, or try stand-up paddleboarding together at Carvin’s Cove. Take a dip or go on a leisurely boat ride at Smith Mountain Lake, known warmly as the “Jewel of the Blue Ridge.” For a more relaxed water experience, dip your toes into the gentle flow of the Roanoke River or embark on a peaceful float, allowing you to savor the moment and connect with the soothing rhythms of nature. These aquatic adventures add a unique touch to your elopement, making it an unforgettable experience.
Explore Charming Towns
Southwest Virginia is dotted with charming towns that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich culture and history. After your ceremony, take a stroll through towns like Floyd, Roanoke (where I live and am based!), or Blacksburg, where you can discover quaint shops, local artisans, and delicious cuisine. These towns provide a cozy and inviting atmosphere for post-ceremony celebrations and photos.
Enjoy a Romantic Picnic
A romantic picnic is a wonderful way to share a meal and celebrate your love in an intimate setting. Southwest Virginia’s natural beauty provides the perfect backdrop for an outdoor feast. Pack a basket with local Virginia cheeses, freshly baked bread, and a bottle of wine from a nearby winery OR reach out to local vendor like Terra Creasy of Front Porch Prezzies and have her make a basket full of goodies for you! Find a secluded spot by a stream, on a mountaintop, or in a peaceful meadow to savor each other’s company and the flavors of the region.
Visit a Local Winery or Brewery
Southwest Virginia is home to a growing number of wineries and breweries, making it an ideal destination for couples who appreciate fine wine and craft beer. After your ceremony, visit a nearby winery such as Chateau Morrisette, Valhalla Vineyards, or Ramulose Ridge Vineyards or explore local breweries like Golden Cactus, Olde Salem Brewing Company, Rising Silo Brewery, or Eastern Divide Brewing Company. Enjoy tastings and relax in the scenic vineyards or tasting rooms, toasting to your new life together.
Watch the Sunset and Stargaze
End your elopement day with a romantic sunset and stargazing session. Southwest Virginia’s clear night skies offer incredible opportunities for stargazing. After the sun sets, find a secluded spot away from city lights and enjoy the tranquility of the night. Whether you’re gazing at the stars or the city lights in the distance, it’s a beautiful way to reflect on your special day and the love you share.
Elopement Activities for Different Timelines
Depending on your schedule and preferences, you can adapt these elopement activities to create the perfect day for you and your partner. Here are some suggestions for elopement timelines:
4-Hour Elopement Day:
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10am: Exchange vows at a scenic overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Don’t forget your permit!
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11am: Go for a short hike to capture beautiful photos.
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12pm: Enjoy a romantic picnic lunch.
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1pm: Wrap up the day with a visit to a local winery or brewery.
8-Hour Elopement Day:
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9am: Start with a morning ceremony at a scenic overlook.
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10am: Embark on a moderate hike to another stunning location.
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12pm: Have lunch at a charming local restaurant in one of the nearby towns.
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2pm: Visit a winery or brewery for tastings.
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4pm: Explore the town.
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6pm: Watch the sunset together.
12-Hour Elopement Day:
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8am: Begin your day with a ceremony at a beautiful location.
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9am: Hike to another scenic spot.
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11am: Explore a charming town and have brunch.
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1pm: Visit a local winery or brewery.
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3pm: Enjoy an art gallery visit or other cultural activities.
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5pm: Return to a scenic location for sunset and stargazing.
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7pm: Conclude your day with a romantic dinner at a local restaurant.
Check out what other couples did for their elopement day for more inspiration:
Southwest Virginia offers an array of elopement activities that cater to different interests and preferences. Whether you envision a short and sweet ceremony or a full day of adventure, this region provides a magical backdrop for your special day. With stunning natural landscapes, charming towns, and a welcoming atmosphere, Southwest Virginia is the perfect destination for a memorable elopement experience. Check out the best places to elope in Southwest Virginia here.
Did this blog inspire you to say “eff it” to the big wedding and traditions and to be selfish and have an intimate elopement in Virginia? If so, I’d love to be your photographer and capture your special day!
In addition to snapping BOMB photos of you and your partner on your elopement day, I also provide safe, fun, and liberating elopement experiences. One of the ways I do this is by creating and managing your elopement timeline so that you have an exact plan for your wedding day and know where to be and when. This will allow you to be present in the moment without having to check the clock. Imagine not looking at your watch or phone ONCE to check the time on your special day.
If reading that paragraph made you breathe an audible sigh of relief, fill out an inquiry form to get started on planning your epic Virginia elopement or check out my pricing to learn more about my philosophy, practice, and packages. I offer packages starting at four hours!
