Idaho Elopement Packages
Idaho is a rustic farm state with diverse history, land, and heritage that is particularly favored amongst spontaneous couples and those who prefer having a low-stress experience while still achieving the intimacy and genuine charm they hope for. This article will teach you all about eloping in Idaho, from how to do it, what it takes, and where you can go; get your questions answered, and maybe even find some inspiration. Let’s get started!
Why Elope in Idaho
Eloping in Idaho might be a good option for couples hoping for a private and personal elopement experience on a budget. Whether in a calm mountain meadow, beneath a natural monument, or at a popular venue site, there is something for everyone on any budget.
Landscape Diversity
Idaho has 53.4 million acres with 63% of it being public land, making it one of the largest public landholders in the nation and allows couples obscene freedom when eloping in one of Idaho’s 30 state parks, 6 national parks, and various reserves, historic sites, and monuments. Additionally, Idaho ranks 11th as the most diverse state in the lower 48.
Same-Day Marriage
Idaho's same-day marriage option and lack of residency requirements make it a great option for spontaneous couples. However, I recommended arriving at least two days early so you can adjust to the elevation and obtain your marriage license without feeling rushed.
How to Elope in Idaho
Obtain a Marriage License
To obtain a marriage license, you and your partner will need to provide your social security numbers, proof of identity, and your age while also paying a fee of around $30 in cash. Both parties will be required to read an AIDS information sheet beforehand, but there is no need for a blood test. The license is valid for one year, and there is no waiting period.
Find an Officiant
An officiant is required to perform the ceremony and sign your marriage license. Websites where you can find someone authorized to perform a marriage ceremony: Wedding Wire, The Knot, and Thumbtack.
Or, less traditionally, couples can have a friend or family member become ordained. The Universal Life Church is a free and easy online course to help your loved ones participate in your special day.
Find a Witness
You’ll need at least one witness to sign your marriage license, although the specific number can vary by county. This can be a friend, family member, or even myself as your photographer, can sign as a witness!
Obtain Necessary Permits
If you’re planning to elope in a national or state park or certain public lands, you may need a special use permit. Consult your elopement photographer for applicable location permits and requirements.
When is the Best Time to Elope in Idaho?
Spring (March to May):
Spring brings wildflowers, greenery, and mild to chilly temperatures, making it the perfect time for eloping to avoid the summer crowds. However, springtime is often paired with rainy weather, and some locations may still have snow, so plan accordingly.
Summer (June to August):
Summer is peak tourist season in Idaho, with warm and long daylight hours. Couples can experience all that Idaho has to offer, but there will likely be more crowds, especially in popular areas.
Fall (September to November):
Idaho experiences true fall with vibrant autumn colors throughout the state. September and early October are particularly popular for fall weddings and are accompanied by cool air, crispy leaves, and colorful foliage.
Winter (December to February):
If you love winter wonderlands, winter in Idaho is the place for you. While temperatures are cold, accessible areas are more secluded and opportunities for winter recreation become available for couples that prefer it.
Peak Fire Season (July - October)
Idaho's peak fire season is marked by dry, hot weather and occasional thunderstorms, creating perfect conditions for wildfires. Human activities and lightning strikes are more likely to start fires, so couples and visitors alike are urged to strictly follow fire safety measures during this time.
Places to Elope in Idaho
National Parks:
Please click each photo to view the applicable credited sources.
State Parks:
USDA Forest Service:
Bureau of Land Management:
Unique Stays
Most Popular Elopement Locations
Redfish Lake Lodge
Osprey Point
Chatcolet Lake
Upper Priest Lake
Where to Visit for Photos in Idaho
Have the freedom to choose a unique elopement location and a variety of smaller, lesser-known areas that make for creative and memorable photo opportunities. Remember, these are only a few examples! I have many more options we can visit together.
Artisans at the Dahmen Barn (Uniontown)
A historic white barn turned into an art gallery.
Cataldo Mission (Cataldo)
A preserved Jesuit mission church that was built in the 1850s.
Kirkham Hot Springs (Lowman)
Natural hot springs with a mountain view.
How Much Does it Cost to Elope in Idaho?
Luxury
marriage license — $30
3 night luxury airbnb stay — $1500
photographer — $9000
bouquet, boutonniere, florals for ceremony and dinner — $1000
wedding dress — $3000
suit purchase — $1000
private chef — $400
5-6” custom cake — $350
hair + makeup — $300
Crater’s of the Moon permit fee — $100
Total: $16,680
Low Cost
$30 — marriage license
$500 — 3 night airbnb stay
$3000 — photographer
$300 — bouquet + boutonniere
$500 — wedding dress
$200 — suit rental
$200 — restaurant dinner + drinks
free – national forest ceremony venue
free — DIY hair + makeup
Total: $4,730
Idaho Elopement Timeline Examples
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9 - 11am: Breakfast Together, Enjoying Coffee with a View
11am - 2pm: Hair & Makeup/Getting Ready Together
2:30pm: Depart from Cabin to Stanley Lake
3pm: Arrive at Stanley Lake
3:30 - 4:30pm: Kayak Together on Stanley Lake
5:30pm: Ceremony at Stanley Lake Overlook
6 - 7pm: Couples Portraits
7pm: Head Back to Cabin for Celebrations
7:30 - 9:30pm: Enjoy a Private Dinner
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On Day 1:
9 - 11 am: Breakfast Together, Enjoying Coffee with a View
11 am - 2 pm: Hair & Makeup/Getting Ready
2:15 pm: First Look at Cabin
2:45 pm: Depart to Botanical Garden
30 minute commute to Botanical Garden
3:15 pm: Arrive at Botanical Garden
3:30 - 5 pm: Stroll Sawtooth Botanical Garden
2:45 pm: Depart to Prospect Hill
15 minute commute to Prospect Hill
3 pm: Begin Prospect Hill Hike
4 pm: Ceremony
4:30 - 5:30 pm: Couples Portraits
6:30 pm: Head to Sawtooth Brewery
15 minute commute to Brewery
6:45 pm: Arrive at Brewery
7 - 9 pm: Dinner and Beer at Sawtooth Brewery
On Day 2:
9 am: Rent Bikes in the Village
9:30 am - 1 pm: A flexible day including riding bikes through town, stoppingbat the farmers market, and grabbing ice cream on the way home.
Idaho Elopement Checklist
An all in-one, comprehensive guide on how to elope. From an iceberg in Alaska to a boat deck in the Florida Keys, this guide will give you all the steps on how to plan your perfect elopement day.
Idaho Elopement Packages
All elopement packages include:
All Travel Fees (prices don’t change per location!)
Customized Location Options
Permit Assistance
Personalized Vendor Options
Activity Suggestions Unique to You
An Elopement Timeline
Every elopement gallery includes high-resolution digital images with printing rights and a private online gallery to view, print, download, and share with your family and friends to relive the day with you - forever!
4 Hour ~ $3000
This package is perfect for couples who want a simple elopement experience. It includes getting ready, a short hike to the ceremony location, and couples portraits.
8 Hour ~ $5000
This package is perfect for couples who want to spend a day of adventure together, such as a long hike, off-roading, or visiting multiple locations. It's great for capturing the complete story of your elopement day. Typically, couples who are eloping and want to document their day for their friends and family who couldn't attend will choose this package. It's also ideal for couples bringing their friends and family along and would like to have their reception captured. Your reception could be as simple as having pizza with your loved ones or as elaborate as a private chef serving a three-course meal during a rehearsed dinner.
12 Hour ~ $7000
This package is perfect for couples wanting complete elopement coverage. It offers the ultimate storytelling experience, from waking up and having coffee with your partner to roasting marshmallows on a fire after sunset. This is an ideal option for couples looking to document their entire day with their guests included. Couples eloping alone also select this package to document every detail for their loved ones at home.
Multi-Day ~ $9000
This is perfect for adventurous couples seeking a multi-day Idaho elopement. For example, on day one, couples could exchange vows on a mountain peak in Sawtooth National Forest. On day two, couples can explore the Craters of the Moon's lunar landscape by horseback and enjoy a relaxing evening together at a luxurious spa.
Unique Things to Do in Idaho
Whether you want to celebrate or combine a fun honeymoon with your elopement experience, there are a variety of unique things to do around the state that will add to your fun.
Visit Natural Hot Springs
Explore the City of Rocks
Which Elopement Package is Right for Me?
4-Hour Elopement Package:
This package is for couples looking for a simple and intimate elopement experience that prefer a shorter ceremony and a relaxed atmosphere while still having their day captured.
This package is right for you if:
You want a short and intimate ceremony.
You prefer minimal planning and coordination.
You prefer natural decor and scenic backdrops.
You prefer to stay closer to your accommodations.
8-Hour Elopement Package:
This package is perfect for adventurous couples who want a full-day elopement that includes multiple activities or exploring locations.
This package is right for you if:
You want to explore multiple locations and activities.
You want to have a full day but not too much stress in planning.
You want to include a larger group of friends and family.
You want to incorporate multiple outfit changes or additional decor.
12-Hour Elopement Package:
This package covers the entire elopement day from start to finish. It's perfect for couples who want to capture every detail and moment of their elopement experience.
This package is right for you if:
You want to document everything without feeling scheduled or rushed.
You want to include extended friends and family or have a formal reception.
You prefer to include elaborate decor.
You prefer the freedom to switch between activities and locations with ease.
Multi-Day Elopement Package:
This package is ideal for adventurous couples who want to combine their elopement with a getaway or honeymoon, spanning over multiple days with complete coverage.
This package is right for you if:
You want to combine elopement with a romantic getaway.
You prefer to explore multiple locations.
You want to include extended friends and family or have a formal reception.
Idaho is a great opportunity for couples to elope conveniently, affordably, and comfortably—and you don't have to sacrifice a unique experience to do it. As a dedicated elopement photographer, it's my job to guide couples like you through the process of eloping, from finding the locations (including the hidden gems!) to obtaining the required permits and documentation. Choose Idaho for a more effortless and intimate rustic elopement.
If you're planning to elope and want to have a stress-free experience, you'll need a guide like myself who can help you capture the most memorable moments of your life. Together, we will find the perfect locations, obtain the necessary permits, and make your Idaho elopement unforgettable. Are you ready to get started?
