My husband and I eloped on Valentine's Day in Asheville, just a few days ago! I wanted to write a little guide to point anyone else in the right direction, who is thinking about a doing this.
You can plan an elopement for a few months in the future, or one on a whim. You can plan a small wedding or have it be just the two of you and two witnesses (your photographer and one other person). If you want a legal wedding, you will need to show up about two days in advance two get a marriage license. Otherwise, plan for a commitment ceremony, featuring wedding vows.
If you want to do something on a whim, I recommend Mark Robinson. He is a very flexible and reasonable officiant, who offers photography services, weddings, elopements, and commitment services, usually last minute. He gives you a broad choice of vows, either secular or religious, and has experience as a clergyman in various denominations.
If you want a venue on a whim, I would research St. Jude's roadside chapel. It is next to Max Patch, for breathtaking pictures. There's also enough room for a small wedding (10 or less). The chapel is open to the public. I would try calling the owner to double check if it's okay to hold an elopement, but it has been done. I would also research churches outside of Pisgah. There are many whitewashed, historical churches that offer mountain views. You just have to call and talk to a live body, I guarantee you'll get a last-minute, free venue.
Flowers go like this: faux only, if you're going to a state park or national park. Otherwise, Whole Foods can hook you up. Only factor in time to get the flowers day of. I would also ask about small wedding cakes.
If you're going to a chapel, you can have a picnic with alcohol for your guests or just you, after the ceremony. The Rhu of Asheville offers reasonable pricing on picnics, and provides you with everything but the blankets. You will pay $10-$20 per head. Just give them a call a day or two before.
For makeup and hair, I was happy with Della Terra. Reasonable pricing, last-minute booking, fun staff, and available early morning for elopements.
If you need a cheap, last-minute ring, Walmart has them for bride and groom. You can always pick out something later, if you have to. I would get your dress and groom outfit first, before you leave. If you want something last minute, go to the mall, and look for prom dresses/spring formal/winterfest.
If you want to book a more epic elopement and have a little time, you can go one of two ways: an all inclusive service, like Elope Outdoors, which I recommend, or hiring the officiant and photographer separately, and planning every detail yourself. The second option gives you those amazing pictures. We used Lively Heart Photography, out of Michigan, and really enjoyed our time. If you want someone local, Katy Sergent is name in the game!
To elope at a state park, you will need to plan things four months in advance, to make sure you have enough time. It will take time and about $100 to be registered. You will have a two hour window to preform the ceremony. A small picnic and picture taking doesn't seem to matter or need to be in that window. No real alcohol or flowers allowed.
Make sure you give your photographer at least a few months. If you start the registration process for the park a few months in advance, you can book the photographer the same time. You will definitely get the spot, if you have enough time.
Pisgah is the most gorgeous park I've seen. Max Patch is great for those pastoral, field views. We did Blue Ridge, which was gorgeous, and Matt was very helpful in directing us on how to register. Roan Mountain is the most popular location. Ask your photographer if they will give you a discount for certain locations.
I don't recommend eloping until May if you want to be on top of a mountain. Most likely, your location will be closed. Otherwise, any season is a good season.
We eloped at sunrise. It was beautiful, but I don't recommend this, unless you plan it months out or are going through Elope Outdoors. It is very nerve-racking! The Rhu also doesn't cater picnics that early. If you are inviting guests, elope in the middle of the day. If you want cool lighting, try sunset during the week, as some of the vendors may be booked on the weekend nights.
If you're doing cake and a toast, don't forget a plate, two forks, and two glasses!
Let me know if you have other questions!
