Today’s elopements are less about running away and more about crafting a day that reflects your unique love story without the pressure or logistics of a traditional large wedding. Couples who choose to elope often seek a more personal and authentic experience, making the decision to focus on their relationship instead of the expectations of others. Whether it’s just the two of you eloping in Virginia or a small gathering of close friends and family, modern elopements are an opportunity to enjoy a magical, stress-free day that’s perfectly you.
Why You Should Consider Eloping in Virginia
If you’re looking for the perfect place to elope, look no further than Virginia—a state with a little bit of everything, from mountains to beaches to historical charm.
One of the biggest advantages of eloping in Virginia is that it offers flexibility and intimacy. My personal recommendation is to keep the guest list at 25 or fewer. Depending on the location you choose in Virginia, some spots may only accommodate up to 15 people, which makes for a beautifully intimate setting.
Virginia’s diverse landscapes make it an ideal destination for couples seeking a variety of elopement backdrops. Whether you dream of exchanging vows on a scenic beach, in the heart of the mountains, or against a historical landmark, Virginia has something for everyone.
- Natural Beauty: Virginia is famous for its breathtaking scenery. From the Appalachian Mountains to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, eloping in Virginia offers an endless array of beautiful locations full of opportunities for adventure!
- History and Charm: If you’re a couple that loves history or desires a more traditional setting, Virginia offers an abundance of charming small towns, colonial architecture, and historical landmarks. Eloping in a place rich with history adds a timeless, romantic element to your day.
- Ease of Travel: Virginia’s central location on the East Coast makes it accessible from many major cities and the state offers a variety of accommodations for elopement parties. Whether you’re looking for a rustic cabin, a beachside rental, or a luxury inn, you’re sure to have plenty of options.
Best Virginia Elopement Locations by Region
Eloping in Virginia means you have nearly unlimited options for an adventure! No matter the landscape or vibes you’re envisioning for your elopement, Virginia has a region to suit your style.
- Southern Virginia: This region is known for its serene lakes, rolling hills, and charming small towns. Smith Mountain Lake, with its tranquil waters and hiking trails, is a favorite for couples looking to elope surrounded by nature. Roanoke and its neighboring towns offer a mix of mountain views, local culture, and outdoor adventures.
- Northern Virginia: Northern Virginia is an easy drive to Shenandoah National Park and Great Falls Park, both of which offer stunning views and peaceful elopement spots. For couples looking for a more urban area, Old Town Alexandria’s cobblestone streets and waterfront views are classic and charming.
- Central Virginia: Central Virginia is known for its wineries and the Blue Ridge Parkway, which offers endless opportunities for scenic elopements. The Monticello Wine Region and the Charlottesville area are popular for couples who want to combine the beauty of the outdoors with the elegance of historic settings. If city vibes are more your style, Richmond offers quirky urban charm with plenty of elopement-friendly venues.
- Western Virginia: For couples who dream of a rugged mountain elopement, Western Virginia offers iconic views along the Appalachian Trail, Grayson Highlands State Park, Jefferson National Forest, and more. These locations are perfect for adventurous couples who want to hike or explore as part of their big day!
- Eastern Virginia: If the beach is calling your name, local favorites like Virginia Beach, Cape Charles, Sandbridge, or False Cape State Park offer beautiful shores for seaside elopements. For a mix of history and nature, Colonial Williamsburg and the Eastern Shore provide an enchanting atmosphere.
How to Elope in Virginia: A Step-by-Step Guide
Eloping in Virginia has some perks from a logistical perspective in addition to the sheer aesthetic appeal. With a little bit of planning, eloping in Virginia can be an easy, straightforward experience with a few simple considerations:
- Choosing Your Date: Consider the weather and the season in Virginia. Spring brings blossoms, while fall offers colorful foliage. Summers are warm and winters can be cold but beautifully serene, especially if you love snow.
- Making It Legal: You’ll need to obtain a marriage license from any Virginia Circuit Court Clerk’s office. There is no waiting period in Virginia, but the license is only valid for 60 days, so plan accordingly. The cost is typically around $30 and you’ll need to bring valid identification.
- Planning Your Day: Beyond the ceremony, think about activities that reflect your personalities. Whether it’s hiking, picnicking, kayaking, or visiting a vineyard or brewery, Virginia offers endless opportunities for adventure. It’s also a good idea to hire a photographer, videographer, or elopement planner to help capture your day and create a timeline.
- Booking Accommodations: Depending on your elopement location, you can choose anything from camping to a boutique hotel. Pro tip: if you’re eloping in a national park, look for nearby lodges or rental properties with scenic views!
- Gathering the Details: Personal touches like flowers, rings, attire, and vows will make your day special. Many local vendors specialize in small weddings and elopements, so you can curate a team that matches your vision.
When is The Best Time of Year for Eloping in Virginia?
Each season in Virginia offers something unique for elopements:
- Spring: Flowers and trees in bloom make spring a beautiful time to elope. Mild temperatures are a big perk for couples considering outdoor locations!
- Summer: Warm temperatures and long days are perfect for outdoor ceremonies, but you may encounter more tourists. It’s hard to beat Virginia’s summer golden hours!
- Fall: Virginia’s fall foliage is stunning, offering vibrant reds and oranges as a backdrop. Fellow foliage lovers may draw some crowds in popular spots, but with a little bit of planning ahead it’s fairly easy to work around.
- Winter: For couples who love snow, serene landscapes, and cozy vibes, winter elopements can be magical. However, note that some state and national park amenities may have limited hours during the off season.
What Time of Day to Elope in Virginia
For the best experience (and best shots!), sunrise or sunset elopements are my personal recommendation for the best times of day for eloping in Virginia. Naturally, there are some pros and cons for each:
- Sunrise: With fewer crowds and soft golden light, sunrise is perfect for intimate, peaceful ceremonies. Night owls be warned – you’ll likely need to set an early alarm to make sure you have plenty of time to get ready for your big day!
- Sunset: The warm, romantic glow of the setting sun creates an unforgettable atmosphere, though it may attract more visitors. If you’re hiking to your destination, it may also become dark on the trail on your way back.
Eloping in Virginia? I’ve Got You Covered.
There’s a lot to love about eloping in Virginia. Eloping in Virginia offers couples the chance to create a day that’s entirely their own, set against a backdrop of natural beauty and history. Whether you’re drawn to the mountains, beaches, colonial charm, or peaceful rivers and lakes, Virginia has the perfect spot for you. And with the right team of vendors by your side, your elopement will be a day to remember forever—wink, wink, nudge, nudge. If you’re ready for a wedding day that reflects your love story perfectly, let’s connect!
Reach out to me today to schedule your free consultation call! Let’s turn your dream elopement into a reality. Curious about my packages and pricing options? Head over to my pricing page for more information. I can’t wait to hear from you and help bring your vision to life!
Check out couples who said ‘eff it’ to the traditional wedding plans and chose a Virginia elopement instead. Read their stories and feel inspired by the magical days they’ve created for themselves:
