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How to Plan a Blue Ridge Parkway Elopement

Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.

March 12, 2026

Elopement, Location Guide, Love Stories, Planning Tips

planning a blue ridge parkway elopement

What is the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge parkway is a 469 mile scenic road with many overlooks along the way with stunning views. It runs from the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia where Skyline Drive starts to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. It features 26 tunnels, stone-lined bridges, numerous waterfalls, museums, lakes, mountain views and over 200 designated pullover overlooks, some with panoramic views of the mountains. . This drive has been coined “America’s Favorite Drive”. 

History of Location

Inspired by a 1933 visit by the president Franklin D. Roosevelt on a visit to Skyline Drive. His goal was to link the two parks together. Construction began in 1935 with the final piece built in 1987. The Blue Ridge Parkway was approved for federal funding under the Public Works Administration. In 1988 visitation to the parkway was around 25 million which is crazy for that time. While the parkway has slowed down in popularity through the years it still is very popular averaging about 17.5 million visitors a year.

Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.

Why should you have a Blue Ridge Parkway Elopement?

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a wonderful place to have a wedding. There are so many unique places and scenery options. Many of these places are just a short walk from the car so they are very easy to access. Some do require a little hike and that makes it all the more private.

The permits are not that expensive and the fee goes toward the upkeep of the parkway itself. There are a lot of places that are big enough to set up some chairs and a small altar if you want to. All the scenery is so unique and so beautiful. I want to state for the purpose of this article I will be focusing on the Virginia portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway.  

What


You’ll find panoramic mountain views, waterfalls, cultural museums, a mill, rocky outcroppings, rustic farm lands, lakes, rivers, rolling mountain meadows, tunnels, dense forests and so much more. This truly is a breathtaking scenery not just in the drive itself but also in all the stops along the way. The stops range from step out of the car views to hikes through the woods to reach a stunning vista or private waterfall. 

When


The busiest season is by far fall during the change of the foliage, the summer months can also be a little busier. Weekends and holidays are also a lot more busy than days during the week. Traffic is generally lower in the morning times than the evenings.  If you visit early in the morning you may get a super cool surprise where the fog that dissipates is still sitting in the valleys of the mountains. You may even catch the sunrise on those east facing mountains and overlooks. This is such a cool effect and the sunlight coming up filtering through the trees can seem just magical.

That being said don’t discount the west facing mountains for sunset which although busier is still beautiful. You can also catch some pretty cool weather patterns. I have seen some pretty awesome thunderstorms off in the distance while taking photos on the parkway. 

Where


The Virginia portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway starts at Rockfish Gap in Waynesboro/Afton and it ends at the North Carolina State Line near Fancy Gap around milepost 217. It passes through major cities like Waynesboro, Roanoke and Charlottesville. There are some very noteworthy stops along the way that I will get to later on in the article!

Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.

Things to consider when considering eloping on the Blue Ridge Parkway

You will want to consider a few things when choosing your spot for your wedding day. Are you going to have guests and will they need a place to sit? This will tremendously narrow your options. The fewer people you have as guests the more options you will have. Some other options include picking a meaningful spot to do your ceremony and then spending the day driving leisurely down the parkway while stopping at overlooks to enjoy the beauty. You can pack a picnic and find a spot to stop and have lunch. 

Number of Guests


You are allowed up to 25 people at most ceremony sites, but some locations will be crowded with that many people. You want to really give some thought to this ahead of time. While you can take bride and groom portraits at any of the locations, choosing a ceremony spot however takes a little more thought. You will want to make sure the area is big enough to hold all the people comfortably without having to fight other people for the space. Especially if you need to put up seating. 

Permits, Rules and Regulations


A wedding permit is required for spots directly accessible by the Blue Ridge Parkway, and you are limited to 25 people or fewer. You’ll need to submit your application at least 30 days before your ceremony/vow exchange, but I’d recommend applying 2-3 months ahead of time. The application fee is $60 plus a $40 permit fee. The permit covers a two-hour elopement ceremony during daylight hours.

There are a few popular locations along the parkway where wedding ceremonies are not allowed at all, and a couple of spots where you are limited to 15 people. Permits aren’t issued on Federal holidays or holiday weekends, or in October. The Parkway is a public, natural, and historic site, meaning you cannot block traffic, restrict public access to overlooks, or cause damage to the environment.

No permit locations


Certain locations, including Rough Ridge, Crabtree Falls, Linville Falls, Craggy Pinnacle, and Graveyard Fields, amongst others, do not allow any permits. A few others have limited capacity. There are only a handful where you can set up chairs and an altar. Keep in mind that even if you do have a permit for a location that doesn’t mean you will have full control of the location and cannot ask people to leave as they have a right to be there.

Best spots for wedding


For small ceremonies the best locations would be Ravens Roost, Mabry Mill, Humpback rocks picnic area. There are also a few venues that you could use along the parkway such as; Love Ridge, The sky retreat, Twickenham House. If it is just the two of you the options have a lot more variety. You will also be able to find a place with more privacy that at the main locations. 

Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.

Virginia – North Carolina

Body copy related to this heading. Each section of body copy should be between three to five paragraphs long. Each paragraph should be no more than three sentences. Each sentence should be no longer than 25 words. (Walk through the details of the day being specific and descriptive)

Mileposts & Entrances


The mileposts are the markers telling you what mile you have reached on the parkway. It starts at mile 0 and goes all the way to mile 469. There are many entrances along the way including 

Key Access Points:

  • Rockfish Gap (Milepost 0) near Waynesboro, connecting with I-64 and Skyline Drive
  • Milepost 115: Near Explore Park
  • Milepost 120: Mill Mountain Parkway
  • Milepost 121: US Route 220
  • Milepost 136: U.S. Route 221
  • Milepost 165: Virginia Route 8 (Floyd)

Road Closures


There are frequent road closures on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Sometimes rock can fall on the road, a piece of the road may break away, a storm may make the road unpassable. There are still many closures due to Hurricane Helene in 2024 while crews work tirelessly to fix the issues they do take time. Some places along the road are more prone to closures than others so take heed to that. You can always check the site here for road closures on the parkway: https://www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/roadclosures.htm This is the most reliable source they do tend to be up to date and informative about where to get on instead and how to go around the closure.

Parking


There are only a few parking lots along the blue ridge parkway and most of them are access lots to hikes along the parkway. The lots that are for the hikes generally fill up pretty early so I wouldn’t count on being able to use them for a big group of people. There is also a $30 fee per car to enter the parkway so you may want to do as much carpooling as possible. You may be able to get 3 spots max at most of the overlooks. Some of them are very small and can only fit a couple of cars at a time, while others may be larger with more options. 

Restrooms


There are some restrooms along the park way but not many. They are mainly located at visitor centers, lodging, picnic areas and campgrounds. The restrooms are generally spaced every 30–60 miles. Key locations include Humpback Rocks (MP 5.8), and Peaks of Otter (MP 86). Try to use the bathroom before leaving and keep in mind during an emergency it will be hard to find privacy and you will need a way to pack it out while following the leave no trace principles.

Leave No Trace


Speaking of Leave No Trace Principles here are some that you might want to consider that apply to the parkway specifically.  You are not permitted to have flowers on the official parkway. This includes cut flowers for bouquets and potted plants. Live plants may contain insects or unwanted pests that could be introduced into the park. 

Here are some other Leave No Trace Principles to consider:

Plan Ahead & Prepare

  • Bring a map, don’t just trust your GPS (they sometimes lie!).
  • Learn about the area- know what’s open and what the current regulations are.
  • Choose lesser-known areas and off-peak travel times (weekdays & off season have lots fewer visitors!) and have a back-up plan in case your destination is closed or already full.
  • Bring appropriate clothing for the weather.

Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces

  • Stay on the trail- don’t take shortcuts as that kills plants, leads to erosion and it doesn’t look pretty.
  • If overnight camping, use permitted campsites that already show use so you are not creating a new area of use.
  • Park on durable surfaces, too.

Dispose of Waste Properly

  • Please take all your trash with you off of the Parkway, including any doggie waste. Garbage pickup is limited in some areas and overflowing trash cans produce nuisance wildlife.
  • If camping or hiking, use the restroom appropriately and don’t leave toilet paper behind.
  • Even better- pick up some trash and leave the area cleaner than you found it!

Leave What You Find

  • Leave natural items like fossils and flowers for others to appreciate (this is required on federal lands).
  • To prevent the spread of invasive species, don’t transport plants, flowers or wood.
  • Refrain from leaving your mark on trees, benches, rocks or other structures.

Minimize Campfire Impacts

  • If a campfire is allowed at your overnight destination, use wood that is dead and on the ground or bring in heat-treated wood that is certified to be free of invasive insects.
  • Make sure that your fire is completely cool to the touch before leaving- many wildfires begin from abandoned campfires.
  • Use a camp stove rather than cooking over a fire.

Respect Wildlife

  • View wildlife from a distance that doesn’t cause them to change their behavior.
  • Don’t feed wildlife; it is bad for their health and safety, as well as ours.
  • Keep your food and trash secure so wildlife can’t access it (in some areas while camping, a bear canister is required for food storage).

Be Considerate of Other Visitors

  • Make space on the trail so that others can pass you; hikers walking uphill should have the right of way.
  • Be courteous about your parking at trailheads and overlooks- leave space for others and stay off the road.
  • Keep your noise level down so others can enjoy their surroundings, too.
  • If you are on a bicycle or other slow moving vehicle, pull over at an overlook to allow other drivers to pass.

If we all practice these simple tips, we can enjoy the road and trail and protect the landscape for generations of visitors yet to come.

Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.

Other Considerations

Planning out all the little details of your day can be hectic and hard to make decisions. Below are some options that you may want to consider when making plans for your day. Some of these decisions will be hard and some will be easier but they will all make your day extra special and unique to you. No other couple will put together the same combination of activities, food and locations as you. 

Lodging


When you are thinking about lodging there are many different types such as an RV, camping, cabin, airbnb, rental property, hotel, bed and breakfast. If considering an RV keep in mind to check clearance for the tunnels you have to go through. Also, consider the winding roads, windy conditions, and two laned roads. You will also need to find a campground as you cannot park it overnight on the parkway.

Food and Drink


There are a couple places listed down below along the actual parkway where you can find something to eat and most of those places are pretty classy too. Keep in mind that most of these places will require a reservation in advance especially if you have a group. You could decide to go original and pack a picnic, or even get a professional chef to prepare and pack you a dinner for the road. You could opt to get a caterer back at the airbnb if you have guests to think about feeding as well. 

Back up Plan


You may need a back up plan for several reasons such as road closures, inclement weather, or permit denials. Some of these back up plans may just need to find a town on the map to go around a road closure. The weather is very unpredictable and you would need to have an inside back up option in mind or something under a tent or awning. 

Interactive Map


There is an interactive map where you can get a feel for what most of the overlooks look like and how big the spot is for parking. You can see the map here. A lot of the locations do not have uploaded pics but have no fear you can still type in the general location into google earth and get a good idea of the landscape that you are working with. 

Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are standing close and kissing.

Activities

There are some really cool options I will lay out below for activities you could add to your day to make it even more special. So many ways to personalize your day to make it feel more like you and less like a cookie cutter version of an elopement. At the end of the day that is what I want most of all for you is for your day to really feel like nobody else could have the same day and have it fit like it did for you. That is the uniqueness that we are striving for.

Water


Water activities along the Virginia section of the Blue Ridge Parkway include kayaking, canoeing, rafting, tubing, and fishing on the Upper James River, New River, and nearby lakes like Smith Mountain Lake and Fairy Stone State Park. Outfitters in Buchanan, Roanoke, and Galax provide rentals, shuttle services, and guided trips.

Vehicle


There are several 4×4, off-road, and ATV options near the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia, primarily within the George Washington National Forest. Popular spots include the rocky Big Levels/Bald Mountain Jeep Trail (accessible from the Parkway), the beginner-friendly Shoe Creek Trail, and the South Pedlar ATV Trail System. You could also rent a vehicle like a vintage car or jeep to really take your style to the next level. This would look so good for shots from behind while you are driving down the parkway.

From Above


You can have a zipline adventure and here are some options: Buffalo Mountain Ziplines (Milepost 171.5 in Floyd) featuring 8 high lines and a 1/2-mile span, and Treetop Quest (Milepost 115/121 in Roanoke) at Explore Park, offering aerial obstacle courses and ziplines. Both provide family-friendly, forest-canopy tours with mountain views.

Animals


You can bring your own pets must they must be kept on a leash at all times which is strictly enforced for their safety. There are horseback riding options on and near the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia, primarily featuring the 11 to 16-mile Roanoke Valley Horse Trail (MP 110-121)

Food


There are places to eat directly on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia, though they are limited and often seasonal. Key options include the Mabry Mill Restaurant (Milepost 176) for home-style cooking and Peaks of Otter Lodge (Milepost 86) for lakeside dining. Other options include Chateau Morrisette Winery (Near Milepost 177): Located just off the Parkway in Meadows of Dan, offering lunch, dinner, and snacks. Villa Appalaccia Winery (Near Milepost 177): Known for wood-fired pizza and Italian-inspired food. The Gap Deli (Near Milepost 199): Located in Fancy Gap, providing quick, casual, and portable food options.

Super Unique


Sunrise vows at Raven’s Roost, a picnic at Crabtree Meadows, Hike to a Summit, Take a stroll to a waterfall, First dance at a mountain summit, or Take a hot air balloon ride over the mountain views. You could do some water activities at nearby Carvin’s Cove or Smith Mountain Lake. There are some pretty cool options for you to think about.

Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are in the dark being illuminated by the jeep lights hanging out the doors and holding hands over the roof
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are in the dark being illuminated by the jeep lights and dancing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are in the dark being illuminated by the jeep lights and dancing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are in the dark being illuminated by the jeep lights and dancing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are in the dark being illuminated by the jeep lights and dancing.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are in the dark being illuminated by the jeep lights and dancing.

Locations

As I am just focusing on the Virginia portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway for this I am only going to include overlooks on the Virginia side. There are some really beautiful spots on the North Carolina side as well but I will be covering them in another post. I think this will really help just focus on the great things on one side at a time. Plus there are just so many differences between getting married in the two states. Here are some of the most remarkable overlooks on the Virginia side.

Virginia


  • Humpback Rocks (MP 6): Sweeping views of the Shenandoah and Rockfish Valleys.
  • Ravens Roost (MP 11) (MP 11): Known for an iconic solitary tree, dramatic ledge views, and sunsets.
  • Big Spy Mountain (MP 26) (MP 26): Offers 360-degree views from a grassy knoll.
  • Irish Creek Valley (MP 43) (MP 43): Provides expansive views of rolling hills.
  • James River Visitor Center (MP 64) (MP 64): Lowest elevation point (649 feet) with a footbridge and canal locks.
  • Thunder Ridge (MP 74.7) (MP 74.7): Features a short path to a stone wall with expansive valley views.
  • Peaks of Otter (MP 86) (MP 86): Views of Sharp Top and Flat Top mountains surrounding a lake.
  • Purgatory Mountain (MP 92.1) (MP 92.1): Views of the town of Buchanan and the James River.
  • Cahas Knob (MP 139) (MP 139): Excellent for viewing fall colors.
  • Rock Castle Gorge (MP 168.8) (MP 168.8): Located near the Rocky Knob recreation area.
  • Groundhog Mountain (MP 188.8) (MP 188.8): Features a lookout tower. 

Best for Sunsets:

Ravens Roost (MP 11), Sunset Field (MP 79), and Thunder Ridge (MP 74.7).

Best for Fall Colors:

Cahas Knob (MP 139) and Rock Castle Gorge (MP 168.8)

Why this location is awesome and who is it best for

There are just so many options when it comes to location and scenery and it would be so easy to combine some of those together as you drive along the parkway. There are options to have your family and friends join you and even more options if you want to do it all by yourselves. The scenery is so beautiful and unique plus the drive really is the most beautiful drive in the country. This is also just an excellent choice for people who want big gorgeous views without having to hike.

Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are doing the dancing in the field.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are holding hands while staring off into the distance.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are frolicking in the field looking at each other.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are frolicking in the field looking at each other.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are frolicking in the field looking at each other.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are frolicking in the field looking at each other.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are frolicking in the field looking at each other.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are frolicking in the field looking at each other.

How am i the best option and how i will plan your day 

My mission is to help you feel seen, heard and like you truly belong and are celebrated for showing up as you are. I strive to create a space where you can feel safe and secure. So you can be comfortable as your true selves. This will ensure the images authentically capture your emotions in a natural manner. 

I am a Virginia Based Adventure Elopement Photographer. I know this whole state like the back of my hand being born and raised here. This location happens to be in my current backyard basically and I have been there so many times. I can expertly guide you through all the steps to elope here and come up with fresh new ideas for how to make the day your own and add on little side quests as well. I can plan a truly epic day for you with this location on the itinerary. 

Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are doing the dancing in the field.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are doing the dancing in the field.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are doing the dancing in the field.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are doing the dancing in the field.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are doing the dancing in the field.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are doing the dancing in the field.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are doing the dancing in the field.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are doing the dancing in the field.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are doing the dancing in the field.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are doing the dancing in the field.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are doing the dip kiss pose.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are doing the dip kiss pose.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are doing the dip kiss pose.
Indian couple in a in green wedding tux and lehenga in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background. They are doing the dip kiss pose.

What makes me different from others?


Virginia native born expert

While I have lived in Virginia most of my life and in several different areas throughout the state.  I am the perfect person to be your Virginia elopement guide. I am well versed in the areas as I have been exploring them my whole life. I am well versed on the quickly changing weather patterns of the state. Also, how different regions, elevations, and moon cycles affect the weather, tides and skies. I am familiar with the wildlife in our region and how to keep you safe out in the wilderness!

A true empath


Being an empath gives me the unique ability to feel what other people are feeling. I know that no matter how comfortable you are with your spouse and photographer, sometimes it can be hard to voice what you are feeling in the moment, especially if you don’t want to mess up the good vibes of the day. That is where I come in, picking up on how you feel throughout the day and using that to redirect the day as needed.

For instance, we have been walking for awhile and the temperature continues to rise, we keep passing people who keep stopping to congratulate you… I can sense that you are getting overstimulated and need a moment.  So I direct us to a private spot and step away to give you two a private moment alone together and time to have a snack, take a breath and get away from people on the trail, the mood is saved. There are many instances where this really comes in handy as I am great at detecting the subtle changes in mood and anticipating the needs of  others.

The ultimate single mom


This also plays into being a single mom for the last 21 years. I have had to be the ultimate multitasker, keeping all the plates in the air at the same time. While I have managed several schedules at the same time and at times had to be in multiple places at once while still paying attention to all the things. I have had to wear all the hats which really helped me in running an elopement photography business where I also wear all the hats. This assures I don’t get stressed out over things not working out and I work really well under pressure. I will remain calm and offer up some solutions to the problem. 

My Obsessive Compulsive Disorder


My OCD which I have done much therapy to be in a healthy place from and don’t take lightly. I have learned to use those traits to benefit my life and improve it instead of holding me back. My disorder makes me expressly good  at planning and paying attention to all the little details. I tend to overthink which makes me great at playing out all the scenarios and having a million back up plans in the back of mind at all times.

While this does make me sound rigid and strict I can assure you that I have had to loosen my grip on that from being a single mom where I really have to go with the flow. I am adaptable to the plan and that is why having a million back up plans is so helpful. Paying attention to all the details really comes in handy during the planning, actually shooting and posing, culling and editing. While it may take a little bit longer to get your images back I promise its worth it after I have gone over every little detail.

I am a nomad/gypsy at heart


I get claustrophobic if I have to stay in one place too long. My heart yearns to be on the open road, travelling, and exploring new places. I get away as often as I can whether it be for work or my job. I do have a type A personality so I plan all these trips extensively even down to the unique food places in the area. I have been planning these trips for the past 25 years.

This gives me so much expertise and has made me the best travel advisor ever. Oddly enough this is one of my favorite things to do… planning trips and experiences that mean something. This naturally extends into my job as an adventure elopement photographer. When I say I will also be your wedding planner, I mean it plus I am so good at it.

Indian bride in a Lehenga in green wedding attire in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background.
Indian bride in a Lehenga doing the Sangeet dance in green wedding attire in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background.
Indian bride in a Lehenga in green wedding attire in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background.
Indian bride in a Lehenga in green wedding attire in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background.
Indian bride in a Lehenga doing the Sangeet dance in green wedding attire in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background.
Indian bride in a Lehenga doing the Sangeet dance in green wedding attire in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background.
Indian bride in a Lehenga doing the Sangeet dance in green wedding attire in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background.
Indian bride in a Lehenga doing the Sangeet dance in green wedding attire in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background.
Indian bride in a Lehenga doing the Sangeet dance in green wedding attire in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background.
Indian bride in a Lehenga doing the Sangeet dance in green wedding attire in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background.
Indian bride in a Lehenga doing the Sangeet dance in green wedding attire in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background.
Indian groom in a in green wedding tux in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background.
Indian groom in a in green wedding tux in a field of green grass with a rust colored mountain in the background with blue rolling mountains in the background.

So what is next?


If this sounds like your jam just fill out the inquiry form below so we can get started planning your specialized elopement. After I receive your inquiry I will be reaching out to set up a consultation call so we can make a customized elopement package to get you exactly what you need and want. I can’t wait to get to know you!

Couple in Indian bridal attire kissing under the night sky

Blue Ridge Parkway Elopement Packages

If you are looking for a very knowledgeable expert elopement photographer to plan your customized elopement at this beautiful bald knob location I am your girl! Inquire below to find out more about my awesome packages.

Janel Alexandra Photography Elopement Experience

Streamlined Questionnaires to get the vision out of you

Welcome Packet including: packing list, elopement planner, 100 page client guide, travel spreadsheet, budget planner, activity ideas

Thorough research packet including: personalized location guide, vendor recommendations, lodging recommendations, elopement guide, checklist, activity guide

Handcrafted timeline

General Shotlist

Triple and double checking all the details

All Packages Include

Unlimited Consultations

Photo Back up and Storage

Effortless Gallery Delivery

All Images professionally edited

Hi- Resolution Images

Customized Client Portal

3 Week Sneak Peek Delivery

Printing Rights

Video Clips of the Day

Engagement Session

Slideshow of the Day

Gifs and Reels

Double Exposures

Extra Hourly Coverage

I offer packages ranging from 2 hours to 2 days. Pricing starts at $1000 for 2 hours coverage. I also offer customized packages to ensure you get everything you want and nothing that you don’t.

Inquire to learn more about my elopement packages

Interactive map: https://www.blueridgeparkway.org/maps/interactive-map/

Wedding permits: https://www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/wedding-permits.htm

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Welcome to the Blog! Here I share helpful information about eloping and love stories of couples who have eloped with me. I hope you enjoy and find answers to all our questions.

Hey, I'm Janel

capturing the wildly in love

Southwest Virginia • USA

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