Here’s how you can expand your Midwest elopement to be more than just one day!

Who says your elopement can only be one day? Instead, turn your elopement day into an unforgettable multi-day adventure by exploring the Midwest’s natural beauty, cozy stays, and unique activities.

Eloping doesn’t mean you have to skip the celebration. Instead of a single day, why not make your elopement an entire multi-day experience? Whether you want to explore the outdoors, relax in a cozy cabin, or enjoy local food and culture, the Midwest offers endless ways to create memories before, during, and after your vows.

Step 1: Choose a Midwest Elopement Destination That Feels Like You

Your elopement location sets the tone for your entire experience. The Midwest’s diverse landscapes offer options for every type of couple, whether you’re seeking adventure, quiet moments in nature, or unique cultural experiences. Here are some ideas to help you choose:

• Apostle Islands National Lakeshore: Explore sea caves, hike wooded trails, or sail between islands. This area offers breathtaking lake views and secluded beaches perfect for an intimate ceremony.
• Devil’s Lake State Park: With its towering quartzite bluffs and clear lake, this park is ideal for a hike to a sunrise vow exchange overlooking the lake, followed by a picnic or kayaking on the lake afterward.
• The North Shore of MN: Minnesota’s North Shore has rocky cliffs, waterfalls, and Lake Superior views. The Silver Bay area includes Tettegouche State Park and Black Beach, both have stunning views. Two Harbors has lighthouses and shoreline spots, while Grand Marais offers rocky lakeside views and convenient access to town.
• The Upper Peninsula of MI: Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is such a unique place for an elopement. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore has sandstone cliffs and clear blue water, while Marquette offers access to many hiking trails and stunning lakeside spots. Copper Harbor, at the tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula, has beaches and forested trails for a more remote setting. And The Porcupine Mountains are stunning during the fall.
• Door County: Known as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest”, this area is especially perfect for couples who enjoy exploring lighthouses, beautiful views of Lake Michigan, boat tours, or exploring small coastal towns.
• The Driftless Region: This area features rolling hills, winding rivers, and deep valleys that make for a quiet, unique location for your Wisconsin elopement. Consider places like Parrot State Park or Wildcat Mountain State Park.

Think about what you both love to do together—whether it’s hiking, kayaking, or exploring new places—and choose a location that complements those activities.

Step 2: Book a Cozy Place to Stay

Make your elopement feel extra special by choosing accommodations that reflect your vibe. Some ideas:

• Cabins: Look for cabins that are close to your elopement location and have amenities like a fireplace, hot tub, or outdoor patio for relaxing evenings.
• VRBOs: You can find a wide variety of stays for just about anywhere you choose to elope. Some VRBOs specifically allow events if you are looking to use your accommodation to host any kind of celebration.
• Unique Options: Consider staying in a treehouse, yurt, boutique rental, or luxury glamping for an unforgettable experience.

Look for places with outdoor spaces where you can have your ceremony or host a private dinner.

Step 3: Plan Activities to Fill Your Elopement Week

Keep the celebration going by planning a mix of adventure and relaxation.

• Tuesday Night:
  • Arrive, settle in, then enjoy a quiet dinner.
  • Watch the sunset over Lake Superior or relax by a fire pit.
• Wednesday (Elopement Day Part 1):
  • Start with a hike to a scenic spot for sunrise photos or a first look.
  • Say your vows in a location you love (beach, forest, or cliffside).
  • Enjoy a picnic or catered meal after exchanging vows.
  • Include some activities you both enjoy.
• Thursday (Elopement Day Part 2 with family & friends):
  • Start by getting ready while spending the morning with family members & friends.
  • Have an afternoon ceremony surrounded by your loved ones.
  • Hike to a secluded location for some sunset photos.
  • Enjoy a catered dinner with your guests.
• Friday (departure day or extended stay):
  • Go kayaking, visit local wineries, or take a scenic drive.
  • Wrap up the elopement week with breakfast at a local café before heading home.

Choose to elope in the middle of the week over a weekend! You’ll have much more privacy and therefore less crowds.

Step 4: Include Meaningful Touches in Your Elopement

Adding personal touches can make your elopement week even more memorable:

• Hire a private chef to prepare a dinner for two in your cabin.
• Video call loved ones to include them in your day if they are not attending.
• Create a playlist to set the mood for your elopement week.
• Sign up for a guided tour of a unique or popular attraction in your elopement area. A kayaking tour of the Apostle Islands sea caves, a sailboat tour on one of The Great Lakes, a winery tasting in door county, etc…

Step 5: Consider Inviting a Few Loved Ones

If you want to include family or friends, consider inviting them for part of your elopement. With a multi-day elopement experience, you can easily plan a day that involves your loved ones, while having your own private elopement day all to yourselves as well.

• Host a welcome dinner before your elopement day.
• Include them in your ceremony or have a small post-ceremony celebration.
• Have multiple ceremonies. One on your private day where you say personal vows, and one the next day with your loved ones. You could also have a close friend or family member officiate for you!

Step 6: Relax and Enjoy Every Moment of Your Midwest Elopement

The beauty of an elopement week is that it’s entirely yours. Instead of hosting a big celebration with 200+ people, you can instead focus on what’s truly important to you. There’s no pressure, no timelines to follow, no expectations to meet, and most importantly, no stress!

Step 7: Work with a Photographer Who Knows The Midwest

Having a photographer familiar with the area can make all the difference. They can help you scout locations and suggest activities, while capturing every moment of your elopement week. As someone who has photographed elopements throughout the Midwest, I specialize in helping couples create unforgettable Midwest elopement experiences. Learn more about the elopement experience here!

Wisconsin Elopement Photographer

Making your Midwest elopement an experience is about more than just saying “I do.” It’s a chance to create an experience feels authentic to you. From scenic destinations to cozy stays and adventurous activities, the Midwest has everything you need to turn your elopement into a meaningful, unforgettable experience. As your Wisconsin elopement photographer, I’ll help you plan the perfect multi-day elopement experience.

Ready to plan your Midwest elopement? Let’s create something incredible together! Contact me here, or learn more about the experience here.