Maryland Elopement Packages
If exploring the US on your elopement interests you, maybe Maryland is the place to do it. With easy marriage laws and close proximity to other famous areas, Maryland makes it easy for couples to have their cake and eat it too. Let’s see if Maryland is right for you!
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Is Eloping in Maryland Right for Me?
When is the Best Time to Elope in Maryland?
Most Popular Elopement Locations in Maryland
Where to Visit for Unique Photos in Maryland
How Much Does It Cost to Elope in Maryland?
Unique Things to Do in Maryland
Maryland Elopement Timeline Examples
Why Elope in Maryland?
Simple Marriage Laws
Couples can get a marriage license from a Circuit Court Clerk with a short 48-hour waiting period. No witnesses are required, and the ceremony can be performed by various officiants. Couples choosing to elope in popular destinations with stricter marriage laws, including necessary witnesses, shorter license validity time, and longer waiting periods.
Convenience for Destination Elopements
Maryland is close to Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New York City, which allows couples to easily travel to and from these popular honeymoon and elopement locations. As mentioned, couples often choose Maryland for its simpler marriage laws, only to celebrate in the surrounding states or cities.
Historical Charm
Colonial towns like Annapolis and St. Michaels are full of waterfronts and maritime heritage, while Frederick and the Mount Vernon areas have old estates and 19th-century architecture. Similar to what else you’ll see on the East Coast, parts of Maryland are stuck back in time and attract couples interested in historic events, architecture, and landscapes.
What is Maryland Known For?
Birthplace of the Star-Spangled Banner
This historic fort defended Baltimore Harbor against British naval forces during the War of 1812. During the Battle of Baltimore in September 1814, Francis Scott Key saw the American flag still flying after a night of bombings, inspiring him to write the poem that later became the United States national anthem.
Chesapeake Bay
The Chesapeake Bay is the largest estuary in the United States, covering over 64,000 miles. It supports ecological diversity, including unique marine life and migratory birds. It also plays a significant role in the state’s economy, culture, and history.
Seafood, Especially Blue Crabs
Seafood is well-known for its freshness here, especially its famous blue crabs (yes, BLUE!). The Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean waters hold a wide range of marine food, including the famous Maryland blue crabs seasoned with Old Bay seasoning, which also originated here.
What Animals Are Unique to Maryland?
Maryland is home to the Chesapeake Bay blue crab, the endangered Maryland darter, wild island ponies, and the Delmarva Peninsula fox squirrel. Others include the diamondback terrapin, Eastern box turtle, and the bald eagle.
Is Eloping in Maryland Right for Me?
Not the perfect fit? Try these similar states instead:
Pennsylvania
New Jersey
Delaware
Connecticut
How to Elope in Maryland
Learn about commitment ceremonies!
Obtain a Marriage License
Purchase a wedding license from the Circuit Court Clerk’s office in the county where you plan to elope. The fee varies by county but can range between $35 and $85.
Waiting Period
There is a 48-hour waiting period before the license is valid, and expires 6 months afterward.
Find an Officiant:
In Maryland, only a licensed minister or a member of the legislative system is allowed to officiate the ceremony. Online ordinations are not recognized. However, if you want a friend or family member to be involved in the ceremony, they can participate in certain parts of it, but the official vows must be performed by a recognized officiant.
Previous Marriages:
If previously married, you must provide the exact date and location of the divorce or death of the former spouse. In some cases, a certified copy of the divorce decree or death certificate may be required.
Choose Your Location(s):
Work with your photographer to determine the best locations and timelines for you, including hidden gems, popular venues, cinematic backdrops, and more.
When is the Best Time to Elope in Maryland?
Please click each photo to view the applicable credited sources.
Spring (March to May)
Spring is from March to May and ranges from 40°F to 80°F. Cherry blossoms and blooms can be found across the state, drawing in tourists and visitors. Accommodations may be closed or just beginning to open, depending on the time of year you go.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is normally 70°F to 90°F from June to August. Ocean City and Assateague Island are popular areas that will be busy, limiting privacy options without reserved accommodations. Despite popularity, summer is the best time to experience in-season seafood, water sports, and the state's outdoor recreation.
Fall (September to November)
September to November, fall is normally 60°F to 65°F. Tourists prefer Catoctin Mountain parks for fall colors and cultural events like Oktoberfest. Common fall activities include hiking, apple picking, and exploring historic towns like Frederick. October is also an iconic time and takes you back to the good ole’ days of nostalgic Halloween (iykyk.)
Winter (December to February)
Winter brings chilly temperatures of 30°F to 45°F from December to February. Highlights include holiday festivities and outdoor activities like skiing, sleigh rides, and ice skating.
Where to Elope in Maryland
Read about whether you should elope in a State or a National Park!
National Parks
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Antietam National Battlefield
Assateague National Seashore
Catoctin Mountain Park
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
Greenbelt Park
Harmony Hall
Oxon Cove Park & Oxon Hill Farm
Piscataway Park
State Parks
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Assateague State Park
Big Run State Park
Casselman River Bridge State Park
Chapel Point State Park
Chapman State Park
Cunningham Falls State Park
Dan's Mountain State Park
Deep Creek Lake State Park
Elk Neck State Park
Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area
Fort Frederick State Park
Fort Smallwood Park
Gambrill State Park
Garrett State Forest
Greenbrier State Park
Gunpowder Falls State Park
Herrington Manor State Park
Horns Point Harbor Marina
Huntington State Park
Janes Island State Park
Leatherman's Overlook on Backbone Mountain
Martinak State Park
Maryland Wildlands State Park
Mason-Dixon Trail
Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary
Monocacy National Battlefield
New Germany State Park
North Point State Park
Patapsco Valley State Park
Pocomoke River State Park
Point Lookout State Park
Potomac State Forest
Rocky Gap State Park
Rosedale State Park
Sandy Point State Park
Seneca Creek State Park
Smallwood State Park
South Mountain State Park
St. Clement's Island State Park
St. Mary's River State Park
Susquehanna State Park
Swallow Falls State Park
Tuckahoe State Park
Tuckahoe State Park Campground
Wye Island Natural Resources Management Area
USDA Forest Service:
The USDA Forest Service does not manage any land in Maryland.
Bureau of Land Management:
BLM does not manage any land in Maryland.
Unique Stays
Each photo is credited to AirBnb.
Cabin on Middle Creek - Myersville
Cozy Lakeside Studio Retreat - Lusby
“Ginger" the Tiny Zen House - Knoxville
Cabana by the Bay - Solomons
Spruce Run Cottage - Myersville
The Original Hob - Oakland
Most Popular Elopement Locations in Maryland
Assateague Island National Seashore
Brookside Gardens in Wheaton
Patapsco Valley State Park
Historic Londontown and Gardens in Edgewater
The Cloisters Castle in Lutherville
The Walters Art Museum in Baltimore
Where to Visit for Unique Photos in Maryland
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
Please click each photo to view the applicable credited sources.
Fells Point Alleys (Baltimore)
Cobblestone streets and historic brick buildings.
Ladew Topiary Gardens (Monkton)
Topiary sculptures and gardens.
Quiet Waters Park (Annapolis)
Wooded trails, waterfront views, and sculpture gardens.
Elk Neck State Park
The northeastern tip of the Chesapeake Bay, this park features rugged cliffs and sandy shores.
St. Michaels
An area with historic buildings, quaint shops, and harbor views.
Please respect all natural areas and leave it better than you found it. Vandalism will result in the closing and protection of such unique areas.
How Much Does it Cost to Elope in Maryland
Luxury
marriage license — $85
3 night luxury airbnb stay — $1500
photographer — $9000
bouquet, boutonniere, florals for ceremony and dinner — $1000
wedding dress — $3000
suit purchase — $1000
private chef — $600
5-6” custom cake — $350
hair + makeup — $300
Assateague Island National Seashore permit fee — $50
Total: $16,885
Low Cost
$85 — 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: $4,785
Maryland 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 welcome 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
Perfect for couples wanting a multi-day experience with a lot of adventure. This package is best if you want to elope in one epic location and experience another the following day. An example of this would be eloping in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and driving 4x4’s the next day to locations off the beaten path, saddling up for horseback riding, or zip lining through the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Maryland 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.
Unique Things to Do in Maryland
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.
Read about the best places to honeymoon in the US.
Explore St. Mary's College (unique photo location)
Please note that these are old ruins and can be unsafe. Locals have reported being ticketed when parking beneath the stairs/walkway.
Find and watch the ponies on Assateague Island
Please note these are wild animals. All Leave No Trace rules still apply. Keep a bus length between you and the horses. Do not feed or interact with them. Do not be a touron.
Visit the George Peabody Library
Referred to as the ‘cathedral of books', this location would make for a a fun afternoon date or make for a great photo opportunity, especially if you’re fond of Beauty and the Beast. Please note this library is closed Sundays and Mondays.
Visit Ladew Topiary Gardens
Visit the Ministry of Brewing
Maryland Elopement Timeline Examples
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9 - 11 am: Breakfast Together/with Family, Enjoying Coffee with a View at Beach House
11am - 2pm: Hair & Makeup/Getting Ready Separately
2:15pm: First Look on the Beach
2:45pm: Depart to Assateague OSV Area
30 minute commute to OSV Area from Ocean City, MD
3 pm: Arrive at OSV Area
3:15 - 6:15 pm: Cruise Along Beach, Stopping for Ceremony, Family Portraits, Enjoy a Celebration on the Beach
6:15 pm: Head back to Beach House for Dinner with Family Prepared by a Private Chef
75 minute commute back to Ocean City Beach House
7:30 pm: Freshen Up, Outfit Change
7:30 - 8:15 pm: Sunset Portraits on Beach in front of Beach House
8:20 - 9:30 pm: Enjoy a Private Dinner
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On Day 1:
9 - 11 am: Breakfast Together, Enjoying Coffee with a View at Riverfront Airbnb
11am - 2pm: Hair & Makeup/Getting Ready Together
2 pm: Picnic Lunch by the River Outfront Airbnb
3 pm: Depart to Sugarloaf Mountain
10 minute commute to Trailhead
2:10 pm: Arrive at Trailhead (To west view point, 2.9 miles)
2:25 - 5:25 pm: Hike Trail, Stopping for Ceremony at West View Point,
Portraits, and Champagne Celebration5:40 pm: Head back to Airbnb
10 minute commute
6 pm: Freshen Up, Outfit Change
6:30 pm: Start Bonfire
6:45 - 8:45 pm: Roast Hotdogs and Smores Over the Fire while Watching the Sunset
On Day 2:
1 pm: Drive to Butler’s Orchard
30 minute commute
1:45 - 2:45 pm: Pick your own Apples at Butler’s Orchard
3:00 pm: End the evening at Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard for Wine Tasting
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.
Choose Maryland for a cozy and romantic elopement. Whether in the Chesapeake Bay, the charming countryside, or the iconic city of Baltimore, you're in for an unforgettable experience. With a straightforward process and close proximity to other locations that couples may want to add to their itinerary, this state offers variety and flexibility for free spirits and experience-seekers.
Do you think Maryland is the place for you? Let me help you choose the best locations, acquire permits and documentation, and capture your elopement in the way you dreamed it would be. Are you ready to get started?
