Where to Elope in Ohio
Where to elope in ohio
Your guide to the best locations
You're searching for an epic Ohio elopement location
you don't have to do this alone.
Say hello to waterfalls, caves, overlooks, lake erie beaches, and exciting cities because...
Say hello to waterfalls, caves, overlooks, lake erie beaches, and exciting cities because...
Whoever said Ohio was just highways and cornfields was seriously mistaken. Ohio is BEAUTIFUL and a total hidden gem for eloping couples.
Home to Cuyahoga Valley National Park, the gorgeous Lake Erie coastline, Hocking Hills State Park and so many fun cities and towns, there are a lot of options to choose from to ensure your elopement is amazing and unique to you. Whether you’re dreaming of a hiking adventure, a lakeside ceremony, or exploring a unique cityscape, this guide will help you find where to elope in Ohio!
Or skip all this and...
Table of Contents
- Akron
- Cincinnati
- Cleveland
- Columbus
- Choosing Lodging
- How Can We Ensure Privacy?
- Location Permits
- Akron
- Cincinnati
- Cleveland
- Columbus
- Location Permits
- Choosing Lodging
- Getting Privacy
Want the quick version? Listen to My guide on eloping in ohio
Who am I, and why am I making a guide about Where to elope in Ohio?
That's me eloping in Iceland!
That's me eloping in Iceland!
Working with couples who want something different.
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.
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 all the ins and outs, and especially the best locations to choose from.
Which brings us to this Guide to Where 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.
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 all the ins and outs, and especially the best locations to choose from.
Which brings us to this Guide to Where 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!
The Guide on where to elope in Ohio
Let's find your location!
Centrally located within Ohio, the state park is a beautiful hidden gem and features diverse landscapes including caves, forests, and waterfalls. If you are wanting an adventurous getaway that involves nature, hiking, and waterfalls, you really can’t go wrong with Hocking Hills.
Centrally located within Ohio, the state park is a beautiful hidden gem and features diverse landscapes including caves, forests, and waterfalls. If you are wanting an adventurous getaway that involves nature, hiking, and waterfalls, you really can’t go wrong with Hocking Hills.
Hocking Hills
Why elope Here?
Hocking Hills is a popular location for elopements, weddings, and hiking in general. You'll want to make sure to plan ahead and time your elopement to avoid peak tourist season. As your elopement photographer, this is something I help with! I know hidden gem locations as well as how to time an elopement here to avoid crowds.
Elopement tips:
Hocking Hills is a popular location for elopements, weddings, and hiking in general. You'll want to make sure to plan ahead and time your elopement to avoid peak tourist season. As your elopement photographer, this is something I help with! I know hidden gem locations as well as how to time an elopement here to avoid crowds.
Located in Northeast Ohio, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is Ohio's only national park. It's home to beautiful waterfalls, gorgeous sunset overlooks, and interesting rock formations. It's also right next to Akron and Cleveland, as well as a number of cute small towns. It's the perfect spot for an elopement if you want to spend a day just in nature or pair it with city activities.
Located in Northeast Ohio, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is Ohio's only national park. It's home to beautiful waterfalls, gorgeous sunset overlooks, and interesting rock formations. It's also right next to Akron and Cleveland, as well as a number of cute small towns. It's the perfect spot for an elopement if you want to spend a day just in nature or pair it with city activities.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Why elope Here?
If doing your ceremony in the national park, you will need to apply for a permit. This is something I help couples I work with navigate so the process is as smooth as possible for you.
Elopement tips:
If doing your ceremony in the national park, you will need to apply for a permit. This is something I help couples I work with navigate so the process is as smooth as possible for you.
If you're looking for a beach, head to Ohio's Northern coast. Whether you'd like to explore one of Ohio's island getaways, lakeside parks in Cleveland, or a long stretch of beautiful beach, you can find it on Lake Erie's shores. Lake Erie is also one of my favorite destinations for couples looking for a beautiful sunset on their day - on clear days, you'll be able to see it set right on the water!
If you're looking for a beach, head to Ohio's Northern coast. Whether you'd like to explore one of Ohio's island getaways, lakeside parks in Cleveland, or a long stretch of beautiful beach, you can find it on Lake Erie's shores. Lake Erie is also one of my favorite destinations for couples looking for a beautiful sunset on their day - on clear days, you'll be able to see it set right on the water!
Lake Erie
Why elope Here?
Depending on where you are eloping on Lake Erie, you may need to be cautious of peak season. During the months of July and August especially, many of Lake Erie's beaches will be crowded with folks looking for a day on the lake.
Elopement tips:
Depending on where you are eloping on Lake Erie, you may need to be cautious of peak season. During the months of July and August especially, many of Lake Erie's beaches will be crowded with folks looking for a day on the lake.
Located in the Northeast, primarily in Ashtabula County, Ohio's wine country is a haven for eloping couples looking for a romantic retreat. There are over 30 wineries in the area, all with unique and fun offerings. With Ohio's wine country is also located nearby Cleveland and Lake Erie, so you can easily combine multiple locations in your elopement day.
Located in the Northeast, primarily in Ashtabula County, Ohio's wine country is a haven for eloping couples looking for a romantic retreat. There are over 30 wineries in the area, all with unique and fun offerings. With Ohio's wine country is also located nearby Cleveland and Lake Erie, so you can easily combine multiple locations in your elopement day.
Ohio's Wine country
Why elope Here?
There are tons of great rental cabins in this area! Be sure to take full advantage and splurge on an awesome stay for your elopement day homebase!
Elopement tips:
There are tons of great rental cabins in this area! Be sure to take full advantage and splurge on an awesome stay for your elopement day homebase!
Akron is the perfect Northeast Ohio location for a modern, city elopement. From cool warehouse rentals to a gorgeous modern art museum, there's a lot to do and explore during your elopement day. The city is the perfect size for a city elopement without the crowds, and it also has plenty of green space and waterways to enjoy for your day.
Akron is the perfect Northeast Ohio location for a modern, city elopement. From cool warehouse rentals to a gorgeous modern art museum, there's a lot to do and explore during your elopement day. The city is the perfect size for a city elopement without the crowds, and it also has plenty of green space and waterways to enjoy for your day.
Akron
Why elope Here?
Interested in eloping at the Akron Art Museum or taking photos there? I've written a whole guide on how to navigate their reservation process!
Elopement tips:
Interested in eloping at the Akron Art Museum or taking photos there? I've written a whole guide on how to navigate their reservation process!
Based in Southern Ohio, Cincinnati is perfect for couples looking for a big city elopement. Explore local parks with a view or head to a historical building or botanical garden for your Cincinnati elopement. And being based in a city, you'll have no end to potential activities for your elopement day.
Based in Southern Ohio, Cincinnati is perfect for couples looking for a big city elopement. Explore local parks with a view or head to a historical building or botanical garden for your Cincinnati elopement. And being based in a city, you'll have no end to potential activities for your elopement day.
Cincinnati
Why elope Here?
Wanting a unique post-elopement celebration? Head to one of the city's many restaurants or breweries for a meal after your ceremony!
Elopement tips:
Wanting a unique post-elopement celebration? Head to one of the city's many restaurants or breweries for a meal after your ceremony!
Located in Northeast Ohio right on Lake Erie's shores, Cleveland is 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.
Located in Northeast Ohio right on Lake Erie's shores, Cleveland is 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
Why elope Here?
Cleveland is one of my favorite elopement locations for couples chasing sunset. You can watch the sunset from your lake-side rental or head to a local park overlooking Lake Erie.
Elopement tips:
Cleveland is one of my favorite elopement locations for couples chasing sunset. You can watch the sunset from your lake-side rental or head to a local park overlooking Lake Erie.
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
Why elope Here?
Want to have a day that combines city and nature? Have the best of both worlds and plan an elopement that incorporates the highlights of Columbus with the highlights of nearby Hocking Hills!
Elopement tips:
Want to have a day that combines city and nature? Have the best of both worlds and plan an elopement that incorporates the highlights of Columbus with the highlights of nearby Hocking Hills!
Extra Tips for Your Ohio Elopement Location
Let's make this easy!
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!
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 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
Start Planning Your elopement
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 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.
