How to Plan a Camping Elopement in Montana
Thinking about swapping those high heels for hiking boots and a traditional wedding venue for stunning wilderness? Then having a camping elopement in Montana is for you! It’s magical, it’s intimate, and a time filled with romance and adventure.
In this blog, we’ll be discussing how to plan your dream camping elopement in Montana. From choosing the location to what to take with you – let’s get into it!
Why Choose Montana For Your Camping Elopement
Why have your camping elopement in Montana? Montana has so many gorgeous backdrops for your elopement day adventures and photos! It’s filled with diverse landscapes, sprawling meadows, towering mountains, and serene lakes. There are so many beautiful spots to prop up your tent or park your camper van and do some stargazing with your love!
Choose Your Location
Montana is a treasure trove of stunning locations that are just waiting to be the backdrop of your elopement day.
You could consider the picturesque Glacier National Park with all its jaw-dropping views of glaciers, alpine meadows, and blue lakes. There’s also the enchanting Yellowstone National Park with all the beautiful valleys and mountainous backdrops! And let’s not forget the Beartooth Mountains, which offer secluded spots where it’s just you, your love, and the whispering pines.
Best Season for Your Montana Camping Elopement
When to plan your camping elopement in Montana? The best weather is from June to September if you’re looking for pleasant temperatures and longer days. In September and October, we have the most beautiful autumn weather with fantastic fiery fall colors, however, it might be on the cooler side.
It’s really up to you with how well-prepared you feel for camping in different seasons and weather conditions, and what you’d like the vibe and backdrop of your elopement to be!
What to Pack?
Now, let’s talk essentials! Obviously, you’ll need the basics: a tent/camper, sleeping bags, and a cozy blanket for cuddling under the stars. But remember, this is your special day! So, bring those fairy lights, personal details you’d like included, and maybe a cute sign that says “Just Eloped.” And don’t forget to pack snacks, water, and a bottle of bubbly to celebrate your union under the Montana sky!
This is also something we discuss with the clients who book with us to ensure everything goes without a hitch! Reach out and set up a consult call here!
Leave No Trace
Let’s make sure the only thing you leave behind is your footprints! Follow Leave No Trace principles, after all, we want to keep things nice and clean for the wildlife and all the future lovebirds wanting to visit the locations for their elopement in Montana.
How to Build a Safe Campfire for Your Camping Elopement
Campfires are a romantic and essential element of camping elopements. They are a great way to keep you both cozy as you celebrate your big day and roast some smores on the fire!
However, before you strike a match, make sure to check out the Forest Service Website for any fire danger alerts and restrictions to your chosen elopement location. If you’d like to have a campfire for your camping elopement, DO NOT plan your elopement during August. That is typically fire season in Montana, meaning there’s often a ban on fires of any kind.
Make sure you look up the rules for building a safe campfire, such as those provided here! In a nutshell, though, ensure your fire is in an established firepit with a campfire ring (you may need to make this yourself, depending on the location) and have plenty of water and a shovel nearby to manage any runaway flames.
Licence and Legalities
Secure your marriage license, find an officiant willing to join you in the wilderness, and check the regulations and permit requirements. We can absolutely guide you through this process! And you don’t need any witnesses to get married in Montana!
Tami Renae Photo & Films| Montana Elopement Photographer + Videographer
Ready to grab your partner and have the Montana camping elopement of your dreams? Let’s do this!
We are Tami and Matt, two adventurous souls who love nothing more than to run through a wild meadow, photographing true love at play. Seriously, it barely feels like work!
If you read this blog and want an off-the-beaten-path elopement to get fired up for a life of laughter and love together, we’re the perfect elopement photography and videography duo for you. Get in touch today!
And if you’re interested in more Montana elopement planning tips, visit our blog!