How to Elope in Ohio
How to elope in ohio
Ultimate Ohio Elopement Guide
you want to elope in Ohio, but Don't know where to start.
you don't have to do this alone.
I know planning your elopement may have you feeling overwhelmed, but I've got your back.
I know planning your elopement may have you feeling overwhelmed, but I've got your back.
The decision to elope was easy - you ditched the big wedding and now you know you want to have a day that's all about making you feel celebrated and doing things you love.
But now that you can go anywhere and do anything, you may feel overwhelmed and like you don't know where to even start with planning.
Well don't worry too much! I've put together this comprehensive guide on exactly how to elope in Ohio, so that you can get started with confidence. Let's get into it!
Or skip all this and...
The decision to elope was easy - you ditched the big wedding and now you know you want to have a day that's all about making you feel celebrated and doing things you love.
But now that you can go anywhere and do anything, you may feel overwhelmed and like you don't know where to even start with planning.
Well don't worry too much! I've put together this comprehensive guide on exactly how to elope in Ohio, so that you can get started with confidence. Let's get into it!
Or skip all this and...
Table of Contents
- Hocking Hills State Park
- Hocking Hills State Park
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park
- Headlands Beach State Park
- Cleveland
- Columbus
- Winter Elopements in Ohio
- Spring Elopements in Ohio
- Summer Elopements in Ohio
- Fall Elopements in Ohio
- Marriage License Information
- Location Permits
- Where to Stay for Your Ohio Elopement?
- How to Include Family & Friends?
- How Much Does it Cost to Elope in Ohio?
- 5 Easy Steps to Planning
- How to Prepare for the Weather?
- How Can We Get Privacy on the Trail?
- Cuyahoga Valley Natl. Park
- Headlands Beach
- Cleveland
- Columbus
- Winter elopements
- Spring Elopements
- Summer Elopements
- Fall Elopements
- 5 Easy Steps to Planning
- Marriage License Info
- Location Permits
- How much does it cost?
- How to include guests?
- Where to stay?
- How can we get privacy?
- How to prep for bad weather?
Want the quick version? Listen to My guide on how to elope in ohio
Who am I, and why am I making a guide about eloping in Ohio?
That's me eloping in Iceland!
That's me eloping in Iceland!
Working with the sweetest couples
Hey, I'm Desiree! I am a photographer who specializes in helping eloping couples plan and get beautiful photos of their elopement days. I'm based in Northeast Ohio and love traveling all around the state to explore new places and try new things (did you know Ohio has things like potato festivals???).
I've also eloped myself, so I've been in your shoes as an eloping couple trying to figure it all out. I remember how excited I was, but also how stressful it felt. And I wished I had a guide telling me exactly what to prep for.
Which brings us to this Guide to How to Elope in Ohio, I have a unique skill set that can help eloping couples just like you. I'm here to spill the secrets, and make planning more smooth and less stressful for you!
Capturing your elopement memories
Hey, I'm Desiree! I am a photographer who specializes in helping eloping couples plan and get beautiful photos of their elopement days. I'm based in Northeast Ohio and love traveling all around the state to explore new places and try new things (did you know Ohio has things like potato festivals???).
I've also eloped myself, so I've been in your shoes as an eloping couple trying to figure it all out. I remember how excited I was, but also how stressful it felt. And I wished I had a guide telling me exactly what to prep for.
Which brings us to this Guide to How to Elope in Ohio, I have a unique skill set that can help eloping couples just like you. I'm here to spill the secrets, and make planning more smooth and less stressful for you!
If you're looking for an adventurous elopement day focused on hiking, seeing beautiful caves, and chasing waterfalls, this is the perfect spot. Hocking Hills is my FAVORITE location in all of Ohio because of its stunning natural beauty. It's my top recommendation for couples with adventure or adventure-ish activities in mind!
If you're looking for an adventurous elopement day focused on hiking, seeing beautiful caves, and chasing waterfalls, this is the perfect spot. Hocking Hills is my FAVORITE location in all of Ohio because of its stunning natural beauty. It's my top recommendation for couples with adventure or adventure-ish activities in mind!
Hocking Hills State Park
Main features: Waterfalls, Caves, forests
With waterfalls, beaches, caves, cities, and towns, Ohio has hidden gem locations just waiting to be found
The Best places to elope in Ohio
Step 1. Let's find your location!
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is Ohio's only national park, and it was originally founded to help with environmental restoration. It's home to beautiful waterfalls, gorgeous sunset overlooks, and interesting rock formations. It's the perfect spot for an elopement if you want to spend a day in nature or do nature + city vibes.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is Ohio's only national park, and it was originally founded to help with environmental restoration. It's home to beautiful waterfalls, gorgeous sunset overlooks, and interesting rock formations. It's the perfect spot for an elopement if you want to spend a day in nature or do nature + city vibes.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Main features: Waterfalls, overlooks, rock formations
Main features: Waterfalls, overlooks, rock formations
Headlands Beach State Park is an underrated beauty for elopements. If you're wanting a beach elopement in Ohio, this is THE spot. There are picturesque tall grasses and dunes, a boardwalk, a lighthouse - you name it, Headlands Beach has it. Bonus: It also happens to be situated right next to Ohio's wine country!
Headlands Beach State Park is an underrated beauty for elopements. If you're wanting a beach elopement in Ohio, this is THE spot. There are picturesque tall grasses and dunes, a boardwalk, a lighthouse - you name it, Headlands Beach has it. Bonus: It also happens to be situated right next to Ohio's wine country!
Headlands beach State park
Main features: Beach, lighthouse, ohio wine country
Cleveland is such a versatile spot for a city elopement. It's the perfect combination of fun city vibes and nature. You've got grand historical buildings, several gardens, and Lake Erie overlooks. Bonuses: You're also near Ohio's wine country and Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
Cleveland is such a versatile spot for a city elopement. It's the perfect combination of fun city vibes and nature. You've got grand historical buildings, several gardens, and Lake Erie overlooks. Bonuses: You're also near Ohio's wine country and Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
Cleveland
Cleveland
Main features: Lake erie, historical buildings, gardens
Main features: Lake erie, historical buildings, gardens
Ohio's capital city doesn't disappoint! Whether you are looking for historical buildings or gorgeous botanical gardens, you can find a variety of beautiful locations for your elopement. There are also super cute neighborhoods to explore after your elopement ceremony!
Ohio's capital city doesn't disappoint! Whether you are looking for historical buildings or gorgeous botanical gardens, you can find a variety of beautiful locations for your elopement. There are also super cute neighborhoods to explore after your elopement ceremony!
Columbus
Main features: Historical buildings, gardens
Take a deeper dive into Ohio locations!
Explore more!
It's often quite snowy in Ohio during the winter months, especially in January and February. Ohio also has some waterfalls that start to freeze over in the winter, and it's completely stunning! Another perk of winter is that this is the least busy time of year at the parks and outdoors in general, so you're likely to maximize privacy for your day!
It's often quite snowy in Ohio during the winter months, especially in January and February. Ohio also has some waterfalls that start to freeze over in the winter, and it's completely stunning! Another perk of winter is that this is the least busy time of year at the parks and outdoors in general, so you're likely to maximize privacy for your day!
Winter Elopements in Ohio
Pros:
Of course, winter is going to be cold in Ohio. If that's not something you want to entertain on your elopement day, definitely steer clear of this season! Some locations may also become inaccessible due to snow and ice accumulation.
Cons:
Best time of year to elope in Ohio
Step 2. Pick a date!
It's important to time your elopement just right for the type of weather and scenery you'd like for your day
Of course, winter is going to be cold in Ohio. If that's not something you want to entertain on your elopement day, definitely steer clear of this season! Some locations may also become inaccessible due to snow and ice accumulation.
Spring is the season of flowers and waterfalls, my friends! The weather is getting warmer during this season, and it can offer some of the most beautiful scenery for an elopement. This is also the shoulder season for Ohio's parks, including Hocking Hills, so you can get more privacy.
Spring is the season of flowers and waterfalls, my friends! The weather is getting warmer during this season, and it can offer some of the most beautiful scenery for an elopement. This is also the shoulder season for Ohio's parks, including Hocking Hills, so you can get more privacy.
Spring Elopements in Ohio
Pros:
Spring sees pretty changeable weather in Ohio. Don't be surprised if it's suddenly snowing in April! This is also a rainier season.
Cons:
Spring sees pretty changeable weather in Ohio. Don't be surprised if it's suddenly snowing in April! This is also a rainier season.
Summer brings warmer temperatures and greenery throughout Ohio. You can enjoy a lake day, hiking, and being outdoors. You also get the maximum daylight hours throughout the summer, so you can be outside earlier or later and still have great light.
Summer brings warmer temperatures and greenery throughout Ohio. You can enjoy a lake day, hiking, and being outdoors. You also get the maximum daylight hours throughout the summer, so you can be outside earlier or later and still have great light.
Summer Elopements in Ohio
Pros:
Some locations, like Hocking Hills, are a no-go for elopements in the summer, as it's peak tourist season and you won't be able to find privacy (or parking) at the trails. The weather can also get quite hot and humid. Waterfalls also tend to dry up during this season.
Cons:
Some locations, like Hocking Hills, are a no-go for elopements in the summer, as it's peak tourist season and you won't be able to find privacy (or parking) at the trails. The weather can also get quite hot and humid. Waterfalls also tend to dry up during this season.
Fall is going to bring cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage as the leaves change colors. September especially is one of my favorite times for an elopement because it's the shoulder season in most parks and locations in Ohio. October brings the leaf change, but there could also be more crowds as people want to view the leaves!
Fall is going to bring cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage as the leaves change colors. September especially is one of my favorite times for an elopement because it's the shoulder season in most parks and locations in Ohio. October brings the leaf change, but there could also be more crowds as people want to view the leaves!
Fall Elopements in Ohio
Pros:
If you're looking for waterfalls, fall isn't the season. There are some waterfalls year round in Ohio, but most go dry over summer and fall. October also sees more traffic in both Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Hocking Hills State Park.
Cons:
Fall is going to bring cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage as the leaves change colors. September especially is one of my favorite times for an elopement because it's the shoulder season in most parks and locations in Ohio. October brings the leaf change, but there could also be more crowds as people want to view the leaves!
Work with a photographer who can help you through the elopement process. As an Ohio elopement photographer, I'm here to not only provide beautiful photos of your elopement day, but also help you plan a day unique to you and your relationship. And most importantly... to help take the stress off!
1. Hire your Ohio Elopement photographer
Ohio is a big state with a lot to offer, so I know it can be difficult to narrow down where to elope! Whether you want to get married in an aquarium or out in nature with a waterfall flowing behind you, I can help find your ideal location for your unique elopement vision.
2. Choose your location
It's time to finalize the details! Book your lodging, make reservations, and hire any additional vendors (like an officiant, florist, hair and make up artist, etc.). Need help with recommendations? This is something I help with as your photographer so you don't have to spend hours on Google!
3. Finalize your Plans
Get your marriage license sorted at the Ohio county you live in; if you are coming from out of state, make a plan to get your license in the county where your ceremony will take place!
Depending on your elopement location, you may also need a permit from the appropriate park office or department. This is something I help the couples I work with know how to do!
4. Take care of the legal stuff
It's time to elope! Say your vows, have an amazing and stress-free day, and officially tie the knot in an epic location!
5. Get eloped!
How to elope in Ohio
Step 3. Figure out the details
This process doesn't have to be hard. Here's how to elope in Ohio in 5 simple steps!
Depending on your elopement location, you may also need a permit from the appropriate park office or department. This is something I help the couples I work with know how to do!
Let's break down some of that stressful stuff
How to get your Ohio marriage license
If you're an Ohio resident...
You will need to get your marriage license in the county where your marriage is taking place. Be sure to check with the county where you are obtaining your marriage license on their specific requirements, costs, and expiration dates.
If you're not an ohio resident...
You can get the marriage license in the county where you live. Be sure to check with the county where you are obtaining your marriage license on their specific requirements, costs, and expiration dates.
Once you have your marriage license, you can officially elope (even as soon as the same day!). The license is good for 60 days.
How soon can we get married?
This part's easy! You just need to be married by an officiant licensed with the state. No witnesses are required.
Want to keep your ceremony as small as possible? I’m ordained and can act as your officiant as well as your photographer!
Officiant? Witnesses? What do we need?
this probably sounds scary, but bear with me here...
Ohio Elopement Location Permits
What is a location permit?
This is going to be entirely dependent on the location and what you are planning for your day. Some locations have different rules for ceremonies vs. just taking professional photos. For some, it could depend on how many guests you have or if you are planning an elaborate set up. But no matter what, you should check with the locations you plan to be on your elopement day to see if a permit is needed.
What locations need a permit?
Some locations require a special use permit before you can host a wedding (elopements included!) or take professional photos there. This is to ensure the entity in charge of the location is aware of the activity and that the activity falls in line with what's allowed there.
Sometimes locations make this super easy for us and post the information on their websites. For others, you may need to call the main office, let them know what you are planning, and see if anything is necessary. Pro tip: don't ever trust ChatGPT (often incorrect!) or anyone other than the office in charge for this information!
How do I know if I need a permit?
If instructions are available on a website, move forward with those. Often though, you will need to call ahead to make sure your date and time are available, so it never hurts to call and ask questions!
In general, call for the most updated information, scheduling, and permit advice!
How do i get a permit?
Want to skip the hours of research? Permits are something I help eloping couples with!
Full-Day elopement sample timeline
- 11:00 AM: Get a slow start, sip coffee, have some snacks, and write vows together cuddled up on the couch
- 11:30 AM: Get ready separately
- 12:30 PM: Meet for a first look outside your rental cabin
- 1:00 PM: Head to your first location, a waterfall
- 1:30 PM: Arrive at the trailhead and hike down to the waterfall
- 2:00 PM: Arrive at your ceremony location and get set up
- 2:10 PM: Say your vows, exchange rings, sign your marriage license, and soak up being married
- 2:50 PM: Portraits at your ceremony location
- 3:30 PM: Enjoy some cake together
- 4:00 PM: Head to your second location, a cave hike
- 4:10 PM: Arrive at the second location and start your hike
- 4:30 PM: Reach the cave and spend time soaking it up, exploring, and hanging out together
- 5:30 PM: Head back to your rental cabin
- 6:00 PM: Arrive at your rental cabin and have a picnic on the lawn. Read letters from your loved ones congratulating you.
- 7:00 PM: Cuddle up and roast s'mores by the fire
- 8:00 PM: Wrap up
I offer 9 hour Full-day elopements in Ohio. Here's an example of what that could look like:
Example Ohio elopements
Step 4: Get inspired!
elopements are a chance to be your unique selves on your wedding day. Let's see what's possible!
Half-Day elopement sample timeline
- 8:00 AM: Get a slow start and write your vows together
- 9:00 AM: Get ready separately
- 9:45 AM: Meet for a first look
- 10:10 AM: Head to your first location, an art museum
- 10:30 AM: Arrive at the art museum and wonder around the galleries together
- 12:00 PM: Head to your ceremony location
- 12:20 PM: Arrive at your ceremony location and get set up
- 12:30 PM: Say your vows, exchange rings, and sign your marriage license
- 1:00 PM: Portraits at your ceremony location
- 1:30 PM: Stop for lunch to end the day
- 2:00 PM: Wrap up
I offer 6 hour Half-day elopements in Ohio. Here's an example of what that could look like:
Mini elopement sample timeline
- 8:00 AM: Meet at trailhead and finish getting ready together.
- 8:15 AM: Hike down to the ceremony location, stopping along the way for some scenic photos together.
- 8:45 AM: Reach ceremony location and get set up
- 9:00 AM: Say vows, exchange rings, and sign the marriage license
- 9:20 AM: Take scenic photos of you two
- 9:50 AM: Hike back to the trailhead
- 10:20 AM: Set up a celebratory picnic & enjoy
- 11:00 AM: Wrap up
I offer 3 hour mini elopements in Ohio. Here's an example of what that could look like:
"From beginning to end, Desiree thought about all of the details. She had an amazing creative vision for us on our day. I think she captured our goofy personalities and special moments together perfectly. She found absolutely stunning places for photographs. Also, can we talk about the itinerary and the packing reminders list?! Absolutely loved our experience with Desiree and would love to shoot with her again!"
Cleveland, Ohio
-Dayle & Quinn
"Desiree arranged practically everything so that we would be in intimate spaces that wouldn't have a lot of people even though we were in public. We had to keep track of the weather often (as you have to do if you're in Ohio) and Desiree was so flexible and accommodating when we had to move things around from the original plan. She always took our wants into consideration and was two steps ahead with her planning."
Akron, Ohio
-Alex & Ted
"The BEST decision we made! Desiree was thoughtful and thorough when communicating with us to ensure our elopement was everything we wanted. She helped with a packing list, building an itinerary for the day, and suggesting activities and places to go. We took all her suggestions, and it was perfect. She is so easy to work with and took GORGEOUS pictures!"
Cleveland, Ohio
-Danielle & Eli
"She didn’t just capture our day, she managed to make every photo feel like a memory. The candid laughs, the emotional vows, the quiet in-between moments we didn’t even realize were happening, she caught it all with such authenticity and artistry. Her eye for detail and ability to make us feel comfortable and ourselves in front of the camera made all the difference. The entire experience felt effortless and joyful."
Lake Erie
-Elaine & Nate
Your elopement doesn't have to be Some cookie cutter, average day
I help couples plan unique and awesome elopement days that allow them to be themselves and do things they actually enjoy doing (not the boring traditional stuff we all think we have to do during a wedding day!). Let's craft your perfect day together!
Mid-Range Elopement Costs
- Photographer: $3,500
- Wedding dress & accessories: $1,500
- Wedding suit: $500
- Florals: $300
- Hair & Makeup: $250 at a salon
- Location Permit: $0 - $300 depending
- Marriage License: $50 - $75 depending on county
- 3 nights at a nice rental cabin: $600
- Food & drinks: $200
Frequently Asked Questions
Step 5: Let's answer those last questions!
You may still have some questions about how to elope in Ohio. Let's get those answered!
How much does it cost to elope in Ohio?
High-end Elopement Costs
Elopement costs vary widely and depend on the kind of activities and experiences you'd like to have for your day. You can spend anywhere from a few thousand to ten thousand or more for luxury experiences. No matter your budget, you can find awesome activities and locations to suit it!
- Photographer: $5,000
- Wedding dress & accessories: $4,000
- Wedding suit: $1,000
- Florals: $600
- Hair & Makeup: $600 on site
- Location Permit: $0 - $300 depending
- Marriage License: $50 - $75 depending on county
- 3 nights at a luxury rental cabin: $1,500
- Private chef dinner: $500
Total: $7,225
Total: $13,575
How to include your family & Friends in your Ohio elopement day
Whether you want to elope just the two of you or bring some guests along, there are a ton of different ways to include your loved ones.
- Your ceremony
- Celebratory meal
- Yard games
- Bonfire
If they're coming with:
- Setting up a tripod with your phone so they can view the ceremony on Zoom
- Read letters from your family & friends
- Call your family & friends after your ceremony
- Have a post-elopement celebration
If it's just the two of you:
Planning a hiking elopement? A nature retreat is the perfect spot for your elopement accommodations! Look for unique a-frame cabins, glamping tents, tree houses, and tiny homes. You'll want to make sure your accommodations are good as a potential rain location for your elopement day as well, so don't be afraid to splurge on something cute!
Where to stay for your ohio elopement
For a hiking elopement
Planning a city elopement? You can still have an epic stay for your day. Look for luxury hotels, lakefront rentals, and penthouse apartments. Ohio has a ton of beautiful homes and apartments that you could make your home base during your elopement day.
For a city elopement
I help the couples I work with find epic accommodations for their elopement day. No more googling for hours and wondering if you're missing out on something awesome - let me know you're vibe, and I take it from there! Learn more about my Ohio elopement photography services.
How I can help
How can we maximize privacy for our elopement day?
You're eloping, that means you don't want a crowd of random people looking on or asking to take pictures with you. I'm here to help.
Aim for weekdays
Find hidden gem locations
Work with your photographer
As much as I'd love to tell you it never happens... it happens. I'm sorry. If it's any consolation, rain on your wedding day is supposed to be good luck! And it rained almost my entire elopement day, so I speak from experience. We still had an amazing time, and the rain actually brought us fun unplanned experiences!
But, there are some things we can do to prepare in advance for adverse weather during an elopement day! From having weather-proof outer layers ready to go to having back up locations in mind, the guide linked below goes into detail on how to prep for the weather!
How to prepare for adverse weather for your Ohio elopement
Rain, snow, thunderstorms... oh my!
Start Planning Your ohio elopement
Step 6: Let's work together!
Work with a photographer who specializes in elopements & will help you plan your unique elopement day
As your elopement photographer and someone who's done it myself, I'm here to help guide you along the way so you can have a fun-filled, epic, and stress-free day all about celebrating your relationship.
I'll be your dream big cheerleader, off-the-beaten-path location finder, day-of sidekick, and adventure planner.
Your elopement photographer, PLanner, & adventure buddy
Hi, I'm Desiree!
Looking to keep your ceremony as small as possible? I am ordained and licensed and can serve as your officiant as well as your photographer.
officiant services
No surprise charges here! Standard travel fees for Ohio are already included in all my Ohio elopement packages.
Travel Fees Included
Sometimes locations require permits to perform marriage ceremonies or take photographs. As your elopement photographer, I'll lead the way in making sure you know what each location's requirements are, and I'll provide guidance throughout the permit process.
Permit Coordination
You'll have unlimited planning consultations with me as we go through the process. You've got questions? I'm here to help!
Unlimited planning consultations
Wondering where to elope in Ohio? No worries! I've got a list of iconic spots and the hidden gem locations I love and can help give you advice on where to elope for your adventure of a lifetime!
Location scouting
One less thing to stress about! You'll receive a custom packing list for your day so that you don't forget anything!
Custom Packing lists
Planning Your Ohio elopement doesn't have to be hard.
In-depth Planning assistance
You're not in this alone. I'm here to help you throughout the planning process.
Here's how I help make the process simple.
Tailored Planning guides
You'll receive tailored planning guides with recommendations for where to stay, local food options, vendors, and more.
Planning your ohio elopement doesn't have to be hard.
In-depth Planning assistance
You're not in this alone. I'm here to help you throughout the planning process.
Here's how I make the process simple:
Location Scouting
Wondering where to elope in Ohio? No worries! I've got a list of iconic and hidden gem locations I love and can help give you advice on where to elope for your adventure of a lifetime!
Permit Coordination
Sometimes locations require permits to perform marriage ceremonies or take photographs. I'll lead the way in making sure you know what each location's requirements are, and I'll provide guidance throughout the permit process.
Tailored Planning guides
You'll receive tailored planning guides with recommendations for where to stay, local food options, vendors, and more.
Custom Packing lists
One less thing to stress about! You'll receive a custom packing list for your day so that you don't forget anything!
Officiant Services
Looking to keep your ceremony as small as possible? I am ordained and licensed and can serve as your officiant at no additional charge.
Unlimited planning
consultations
You'll have unlimited planning consultations with me as we go through the process. You've got questions? I'm here to help!
Travel Fees Included
Standard travel fees for Ohio are already included in my elopement photography packages.
