Planning a waterfall elopement can be a little complex as there are many things that people may not think about. I will cover all of them and more in this article, truly walking you through everything you need to know step by step. I know it can seem daunting but with the right professional you won’t have to do anything but share your dream and little details of what that vision looks like. From there they should be able to plan out every little detail so all you have to do is show up and have the best day of your life.

Introduction to Waterfall Elopements

Waterfalls can vary greatly in so many ways. There are grand big waterfalls and small little trickles. Waterfalls can be river fed or rain fed. They can be powerful or a slight spray. Right by the roadside or hidden deep in the mountains. Overly crowded or completely private with just the two of you. This is just one of the reasons that you need an expert to really give you the experience that you are really wanting, and make it enjoyable in the process.

When is the best time to visit

Late spring to early summer is usually the best season to do a waterfall elopement. The water is usually fuller during this time. Some waterfalls can completely dry up in the winter time, this depends on if the waterfall is river fed or rain fed. The best time of day is the early morning as the sun is coming up filtering through the trees, this sight is absolutely beautiful. You may want to try and avoid the middle of the day due to blown out highlights on the water and higher crowds.

Where does the waterfall source come from?

Depending on where the source of the water is coming from plays a huge role in planning a waterfall elopement. Waterfalls can be fed from rain, melting glaciers, lakes, groundwater springs, high mountain snows melting, This makes a big difference in planning something of this caliber. For instance if the waterfall is rain fed and it hasn’t rained.. It could be completely dry when you get there. If it relies on mountain top snow melting you have to wait late enough in the season for that to have started happening.

You will get wet and dirty plan accordingly

I know that couples standing in front of waterfalls always look amazing and whimsical but the reality in these images is usually much different. To get close enough to the waterfall you will most likely have to cross a stream or two, jump across some slippery rocks and maybe get a little wet. Most people who don’t travel to waterfalls often aren’t aware of the spray that comes off of a powerful waterfall just getting everything wet if you sit there long enough. Your hair will most likely be damp.

Choosing the Right Location for your Waterfall Elopement

Consider the areas around the falls you will want to shoot. Behind the waterfall, Top, bottom, sides, in the water, in the foreground. Do you want the waterfall to be in the far background? Do you want a full waterfall or a slight trickle? Surrounded by dark and moody rocks or lit up with greenery and light filtering through the trees. There are really so many options depending on what your vision of the day looks like. The possibilities are really endless if you have the right guide.

Some locations might be inaccessible due to weather

Many things surrounding the weather in certain seasons can make some waterfalls harder or impossible to get to. It is very important to always have a back up plan as the weather and circumstances are always changing. Some things to look out for when planning a waterfall elopement: hazardous trail conditions like ice and snow, excessive rain and flooding, drought and reduced water flow, infrastructure damage to the falls, trail or road to get there, and freezing temperatures.

If the temperature stays below freezing for a length of time the whole waterfall can freeze and stop moving. While this is sometimes dangerous to access because of slippery rocks it can also be very cool to witness. That being said they are generally a lot busier than you would think.

How accessible do you need or want the waterfall to be

There are some very pretty accessible waterfalls that might be on the side of the road or just a short walk from the parking lot. These do tend to be more crowded just because of the easy access. That being said you can avoid this by finding one that is a little bit of a further drive from everything and also eloping during the week and/or early in the morning.

There are waterfalls that require hiking and sometimes the hike itself is just the most beautiful path. I have seen these vary greatly in popularity depending on location and peoples awareness. I have seen 4 mile hikes that are so crowded you can barely walk and 7 mile hikes with 3 waterfalls each more beautiful than the next and not a person in sight the whole time. It really helps to have a photographer who is familiar with the locations.

Some waterfalls are more crowded than others  and at different times

Some waterfalls can be extremely busy and popular while there are some equally if not more beautiful waterfalls that are less known where I have been several times and not seen a single soul the whole time I was out there. Even some roadside waterfalls with a short walk can be very secluded if they are out of the way to travel to. Most people just go with what they know or don’t want to take the road less traveled. Luckily for you I take all the roads less traveled so you don’t have to. I know these waterfalls intimately and can really guide you to pick the right choice1

Different Types of Waterfalls

• Plunge: Water descends vertically, losing contact with the bedrock surface
• Block: Water descends from a wide river or stream, appearing as a large, continuous sheet
• Cascade:  Water travels down a series of rocky steps or a steep, uneven slope
• Tiered: Water drops in a series of distinct, separate steps or steps, each with its own pool.
• Fan:  Water spreads horizontally as it descends, creating a fan-like shape while staying in contact with the bedrock.
• Punchbowl:  Water descends in a constricted form, then spreads out into a wider, calmer pool.
• Segmented:  Distinctly separate, parallel flows of water are created as the stream splits into channels.
• Slide:  Water flows over a smooth, low-angled rock face.
• Chute: A large volume of water is forced through a narrow, vertical passage.
• Cataract:  A large, extremely powerful, and high-volume waterfall.
• Ephemeral: Waterfalls that flow only during periods of heavy rain or snowmelt.

 

Step by Step Guide to Planning a Waterfall Elopement

Here are the most important things to consider when planning your waterfall elopement. I want you to really think through the options while trying to imagine the vision. Really think about the smells, sights, how does the day feel, what do you hear. These sense exercises will help you see what you really think your day should look like allowing you to plan the most epic elopement ever.

Choose your location

Based on your vision for the day you will work with your photographer to narrow down the locations. I care about what kind of scenery you envision, do you see yourself in the filtered light of the morning sun? Maybe in the evening darkness falls all around you.

Do you see just the two of you or sharing the space with a few others? Do you see lots of greenery and trees, maybe light sand colored walls with a walkway for you to go behind the waterfall, how about dark rocks with a bright white cascade falling over them. There really are so many options you will really need help to narrow them all down and an expert to help you realize the vision you have and help bring it to life.

Decide on Guests

Will you have guests or will it be just you two? If you are having guests you will need to make sure that you navigate your permit properly to make sure you have coverage for everyone that will be in attendance. Will some of the guests need somewhere to sit? Is the waterfall close enough that you would have a way to transport chairs? Is there somewhere to sit them down on a hard durable surface to follow Leave No Trace Principles?

Are any of your guests going to have a hard time accessing this waterfall? Will there be pets that need to be on a lead or leash? Can they get up and down stairs and over rock scrambles if need be?

Secure your permits

Speaking of permits you need to have an expert photographer to guide you through this process. There are big repercussions for not having the proper permits. For instance: you could be fined, kicked off the land ruining your day, arrested. Sometimes rangers even scroll certain hashtags on Instagram to find people who don’t have proper permits and fine them after the fact. In the grand scheme of things the permits only take 1-6 months to apply for and usually don’t cost more than $200. If you think about the money you are saving on a venue that is a steal! There are different types of permits. 

A special use permit is a legal authorization required for land uses not typically permitted by right in a specific zoning district, allowing for closer scrutiny of potential impacts like noise or traffic. These are sometimes required for wedding parties over a certain number of people and sometimes also for just two people.

Then there is a commercial use permit that authorizes individuals or businesses to conduct for-profit activities, services, or events on specific public lands, such as National Parks, Forest Service areas, or local government property. Your photographer will guide you through which of these is necessary and how to go about acquiring them. Always ask your photographer first before purchasing because they can sometimes apply to a certain area for a length of time like up to a year and the photographer might already have one for that area. They really should be able to guide you through this process. 

You also have to consider paying an entrance fee to enter some specific parks for day use and also some of them have parking fees. All the above fees go towards the preservation of the park and paying the people who take care of it for us to enjoy. That can help when you are thinking about the costs and also knowing it is going to such a good cause.

Book Vendors

Hair, makeup, florist, caterer, baker, transportation. Which vendors will you need and want to procure for the day? There are so many options. I will say it would be good to work with vendors familiar with elopements, hiking, nature and waterfalls. This way they understand the demands that will be placed on your hair and flowers.

For instance it would be a great idea to have waterproof make-up because of the spray that comes off of the waterfall, especially if you plan on getting in the water at all. A hair dresser familiar with these things will know how to help your hair stand up to the test of the water, sweat, heat, humidity, and wind. This way you will look your best all day.

A florist familiar with elopements will be able to help you pick the bouquet that will stay fresh for as long as possible without being submerged in water and even help you plan how to package it. Will you need transportation to reach the waterfall such as a jeep or 4×4?

Will you need a caterer to pack a private meal for the two of you or a baker to make a set of cupcakes that will be transportable getting knocked around in a bag and still look good? The most important thing is to communicate with your vendors what you will be doing on the day so that they can plan accordingly to make sure that you have the freshest, best looking services for your special day.

Plan ceremony details

Are you doing vows at the falls or just taking some pictures here? I will mention that trying to do your vows by a waterfall would be pretty hard to hear. Waterfalls are very loud whether they are big or small they are all pretty loud.

It might be better to just plan some pictures near the falls and find a really pretty place along the way or a second location altogether to do your vows. Also planning a picnic that close to the falls might be a little difficult with the spray and noise as well. Not that it can’t be done it would seriously just require a little more planning and should be considered when picking your location.

Arrange accommodations and travel

What type of lodging were you considering for your big day? Did you want to stay in a tent to have a really alone experience or maybe you want rustic but not that off the grid and are looking for a log cabin or cute little A-frame? Maybe you want a fancy house to rent for a luxury getting ready experience. This housing option can also help you to narrow down the waterfall location options as well. Or vice versa if one element is more important the next.  

Preparing for the day

Below I will start to go over the intricate planning steps and things to consider during the planning stage. These are all important things to consider to make your day and experience just the most magical day ever. This is how your waterfall elopement should feel, like you have the perfect adventure.

How will you do your hair:

Will you wear your hair up or down? Will you let it blow freely in the wind or have it up in a pony with cascading curls? Think about how you feel with that hairstyle regularly. Will your hair in your face aggravate you on the day of? If you are standing on a cliff with your hair being blown around do you feel free? You want to be comfortable on your big day!

What to pack:

Depending on the activities and ceremony you have planned you will want to pack everything that is needed for all of those things.

• As some extras I like to always have a headlamp in case it gets dark, or you are hiking later in the day and the exit route is a little hard to see.
• I always pack walkie talkies because I am usually standing pretty far from the couple and its really loud at waterfalls. This way we can communicate and they can hear my instructions clearly without anyone having to yell or lose their voice.
• Trekking poles to help navigate the slippery rocks and surfaces.
• Hot hands to keep warm if it gets too cold this way you don’t have to sacrifice your waterfall images because you are uncomfortable.
• A towel to dry off if going in the water or just really close to the falls.
• Waterproof shoes as you will probably have to trek through some water at some point.
• Always a first aid kit in case any emergencies arise.
• Navigation can be a map or GPS, you can never be too safe.
• Waterproof clothing layers such as a poncho, raincoat, or clear umbrella.
• Warmth layers to wear underneath your clothing such as skin tone fleece leggings or wool socks.
• Swimsuit if you want to get wet and change of clothes if you are thinking of jumping in with your wedding attire.
• Hair ties in case you change your mind and want to put your hair up and maybe your phone or a little mirror to make sure you like the way it looks.
• A comb to brush through the windblown hair is always a good idea.
• Can’t forget extra water and hiking snacks such as protein bars and trail mix for a boost of energy.
• I would make sure to have extra tylenol and motrin just in case you need it…

Like I said you want to look good and have a great time but in order to do  that you need to be comfortable. Extra socks in case yours get wet.

First Aid Kit:

You will want moleskin blister bandages in case your shoes get wet and they rub. Tylenol, Motrin, Excedrin Migraine, Dramamine, Poison Ivy Wipes, Antibiotic Ointment, Adhesive bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, waterproof tape, instant cold packs for sprains, hot hands for cold temps, instant heating pad for cramps and strains, space blanket, tweezers for ticks, life straw in case you run out of water, safety pins, nitrile gloves, and a biffy pack. 

Towel to change behind or fold down changing wardrobe:

This is a good thing to think about if you don’t feel comfortable changing in a semi private place. I have had couples go a simpler route and use towels or bushes where me and their partner stand around the sides to block you. Also it might be nice if you aren’t hiking in your gear to bring a wooden hanger so we can hang the dress in nature for that beautiful dress shot.

Water resistant shoes, protect ankle, good grip on shoes:

Support is more important than being cute as a rolled ankle will ruin your day and if bad enough could even require a helicopter ride to safety. That being said there are very cute options out there for elopement hiking shoes of all occasions. I share a list of some really affordable options with all my clients after booking.

What to bring for fun:

Vow books, champagne, cupcakes, ring box or detail items could be cute here, hanger for dress shot if not wearing it to hike: We have addressed some of these things already and will talk about some more in the activity section below but these options are endless and very specific to your day and your plan.

Prepare for the hike:

Make sure that you have everything packed the day before and that you have double and triple checked for everything you need. You won’t be able to find any of those things out on the trails so  make sure you really check everything thoroughly.

If not hiking in wedding attire pack accordingly in garment bags:

You should steam your attire in advance to make sure it is wrinkle free before packaging. Then don’t fold it but roll it up to keep anything from creasing. Once it is rolled up you should secure the outfit in a dry sack bag to keep it protected from everything. 

How to bag the flowers:

I always suggest wrapping some wet paper towels around the stems to keep them fresh until you are ready to use them. Then wrap the whole bottom portion in a dry sack bag to protect everything else in your pack. Have just the actual flower sticking out the top of the dry sack bag so they don’t get pressed down, mishappen, or broken. This is how you will put them in the top of your pack with just the flowers hanging out,

Cute things to add to your hiking attire:

You can add a shawl or cape to add depth and movement, custom embroidered denim jacket or leather jackets. You could wear cute ear muffs if it’s cold out. A stylish hat like fedora or cowboy hat adds personality. A cute blanket to lay down for a picnic or even a hammock to hang around the waterfall is a great idea. Adding a set of just married wooden signs from etsy to hang from your back packs is the cutest idea. Customized vow books that will hold these special words forever. There are so many options just consider ways to add small things to memorialize the day while also adding your personalities into it.

Tips for a memorable waterfall elopement

Consider the areas around the falls you will want to shoot. Behind the waterfall, Top, bottom, sides, in the water, in the foreground and really envision what your images will look and feel like. What parts of the waterfall do you see yourself using? Are you sitting or standing? Is the waterfall near of further away? Are you in the water or on the rocks? This step will really help you figure out the flow of planning for your day.

So loud at the falls

It really is so loud at the falls from the rushing water. I always bring a pair of walkie-talkies so if your photographer doesn’t mention that maybe look into it. When you have to shout over the water you could lose your voice fast. 

The spray from the falls

You can get pretty wet from the spray coming off the falls. This may need to be considered when making the original plan on the location and activities that will happen there. If you don’t want to get wet we can plan to have the waterfall further in the background or you can fully succumb and just dip right under the waterfall. 

The cold temps of the water and air around the falls

The temperature around a waterfall is colder primarily due to evaporative cooling, where water mist evaporates into the air, absorbing heat. The falling water directly cools the surrounding air, while higher humidity and the high heat capacity of the water (which stays colder longer) create a cooler, localized microclimate. Just make sure that you are prepared for this ahead of time to have an enjoyable experience.

Activities to consider planning for your waterfall elopement

Consider the areas around the falls you will want to shoot. Behind the waterfall, Top, bottom, sides, in the water, in the foreground. Is there a cliff with a deep spot you could potentially cliff dive off of safely in your wedding gear or a white bathing suit? 

Will you be swimming

Think white bridal bathing suits with a short veil, could be a vibe, half submerged in water with dress, think about this when choosing a dress, standing in the waterfall stream

Picnic or champagne pop

You could pack a picnic and have a cute little lunch with a beautiful backdrop. You could pop a bottle of champagne and have a little spray for your celebration. 

Are there any activities that you want to plan at surrounding areas nearby

There could be really cool areas nearby to add on stargazing. You could have a tent campsite nearby where you go back to have smores by the fire while dancing in the headlights of your jeep. A lot of waterfalls also have nearby caves you can explore in as well. Just make sure you check permits and Leave No Trace Principles carefully as bats live in caves and are protected very strictly. 

Why this location is awesome and who is it best for

Conclusion copy. Wrap up the main points of your post in about 60 words. Include a CTA. Your conclusion should be no longer than two paragraphs long.

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. 

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 it’s 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.

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!

Waterfall 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

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.