The Ultimate Connecticut Elopement Guide

Bride and groom smiling at each other a few moments before their elopement ceremony.

What is an elopement?

The meaning of eloping has changed in the past few decades. The original meaning of the word was for when two lovers ran away to get married, usually without parental approval. A modern-day elopement is an intimate wedding that focuses on you as a couple over the traditions of a wedding with a 300-person guest list.

Some elope without any guests at all. Other couples invite their closest family and friends for a micro-wedding. And many have a combination of an elopement and a wedding, by eloping alone first — then throwing a big party for everyone to celebrate at a later date. Micro-weddings and intimate gatherings are synonyms of modern-day elopements.

CT Elopement Packages

Are you looking for the best elopement or micro wedding packages in CT? Are you dreaming of an intimate experience for you, your boo, and maybe a select few? Did you just start the planning process?

There are so many amazing spots in Connecticut to elope at, from the gorgeous Eolia Mansion on the water in Waterford to the cozy vibes of the Mayflower Inn in Washington, CT.

My local elopement photography packages start at $1,250. Get in touch to book!

Scroll down to learn more about everything from how to get your marriage license to selecting a location or a venue, and everything else. Let’s start planning your dream Connecticut elopement!

How to elope in Connecticut

Marriage License

Getting the license is pretty easy but the process can vary between counties so be sure and check in with the county clerk in the location you want. In Connecticut, you need to get your marriage license in the town where you’ll be having your ceremony, so keep that in mind. But on the brighter side, there is no waiting period as it can be in other states.

Here’s how to get your license:

  • You must make an appointment, and both appear with all the required documentation

  • A fee is to be paid, usually around $40-$50

  • Get married before the license expires in 65 days

  • Mail in the signed license and you’re done!

Officiant

Anyone can be your officiant, as long as they’re certified! It can be a friend or a family member. In Connecticut, you only need one witness.

I am a registered officiant and can sign your license if you’re looking for the most intimate experience, or if you’d like to save a few hundred dollars!

Other vendors

An elopement allows you more freedom to decide which vendors are the most important ones. Here are the most popular vendors eloping couples go with.

  • Photographer

  • Videographer

  • Hairstylist

  • Makeup Artist

  • Florist

  • Baker/Cake Artist

Permits

Depending on the location, there may be some additional paperwork and permits needed. I can absolutely help you in getting those permits to make sure your day goes on without a hitch.

Bride and groom kissing during their elopement in Connecticut.

The best time to elope in Connecticut

There are a few things to think about when deciding the best time and season to elope. We’re pretty lucky to get all four seasons here in CT. If you have a season you absolutely love, it can be extra special to choose that time of year to get married. Whether that’s in the blooming spring, the cozy fall, or the snowy winter!

Fall

It’s no wonder fall is such a popular season, the mild weather and stunning fall foliage create a beautiful backdrop for your day. The colors of the leaves give us a contrast to your wedding attire. The sweater weather temperatures also make it comfortable for outdoor ceremonies, with most venues offering indoor options as well. You can include some of your favorite fall activities on your elopement day, like apple picking, pumpkin patches, or hiking. If you’re considering a fall elopement — make sure to book early as this is usually the busiest season for venues and vendors.

Winter

Even though winter is the harshest season, it can be a magical time to elope in Connecticut. One of my favorite photography quotes by Ansel Adams is “bad weather makes for good photography.” If you are planning a winter elopement, make sure to have a plan b for an indoor ceremony and reception — and to prepare and dress warmly for any outdoor photos.

Spring

Spring, from March to May, with blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures is usually a popular time for elopements and weddings in Connecticut. The landscape comes back to life and is lush again, and all the CT waterfalls are flowing! We do see plenty of rain in spring, so it is important to take that into account. If tulips are your thing, then spring is probably your season!

Summer

Lastly, Summer — with temperatures averaging in the mid-80s, this is the easiest time for an outdoor elopement. Summer is perfect for couples who want to have an outdoor ceremony and maybe have their elopement portraits on one of the beaches on Long Island Sound. The only thing to take into account is the humidity, as we all know, New England summers are humid! This means that ceremonies closer to sunset make more sense.

Eloping couple smiling in front of a waterfall.

Where to elope in Connecticut

I will divide this section in two. One for outdoor adventure elopements and one for venues, hotels, and BnBs who offer elopement packages. Let’s go!

Adventure elopement locations in connecticut

For all the outdoorsy couples who’d like to elope outside in nature, whether that’s on a mountaintop, on a beach, or deep in the woods.

Intimate venues that offer elopement packages

My elopement packages range from $1,250 to $2,250 — please feel free to get in touch to book!