How to Plan Your Elopement or Intimate Wedding in Tasmania

Eloping is all about creating an intentional experience that celebrates your love story.

And it’s no secret that elopements and intimate weddings are becoming more popular in Tasmania. 

After all, we have the perfect blend of seclusion and breathtaking scenery!

From locations and guest lists to timelines and checking the legals, I’ll walk you through the steps of planning your elopement.

Step 1:  Choose a location

Deciding on the location is the most important decision when planning an elopement.

The location you choose will dictate everything else that needs planning. So spend some time making sure it’s right for you.

We’re spoilt for choice in Tasmania when it comes to great elopement locations. Of course, that only makes the decision harder!

Check out my top picks of elopement locations in Tasmania for inspiration.

Above all, choose a place that’s meaningful to you both. It should reflect your personalities and match your unique vision.

And don’t forget to have a particular spot in mind for exchanging vows.

You’ll also need to consider the best time to visit.

Perhaps it’s only suitable for certain types of weather? Or maybe it’s overrun with tourists during busy seasons?

Step 2:  Make it legal

If you want your marriage recognised in Australia, there are some legal guidelines you’ll have to follow.

Generally, an elopement will need a registered civil celebrant to conduct the ceremony and submit the paperwork.

You’ll also need two adult witnesses present.

Remember, your photographer or stylist could step in if you’re not inviting guests.

Some locations may need a permit, such as a National Park. And check for any other restrictions in place.

In other words, it’s important to do your homework early on!

Step 3:  Consider your guests

Most people believe an elopement to be just the couple and a celebrant. But there are no rules. So do whatever feels right for you.

Remember, this is your day.

Generally, elopements have less than 20 guests. And intimate weddings have less than 50.

Of course, if you do invite guests, it’s important to choose your location with them in mind. 

For example, a ceremony atop Cradle Mountain might be out of the question if your elderly grandparents are attending.

It’s also a good idea to consider nearby accommodation options. Particularly if you or your guests will be away from home.

Step 4:  Lock in a date and time

Choosing a mid-week elopement is a great idea if you’re keen to avoid potential crowds. Especially if your location is a popular tourist spot.

Another option is to hold your ceremony at sunrise, which is the best way to guarantee an intimate experience.

Don’t forget that your chosen date and time will need to work for your celebrant, photographer, and any other vendors. So make sure you check in with everyone before confirming your date.

Step 5:  Do it your way

At each stage of your planning, only do what feels natural and right for you both.

Do you want professional hair and make-up? Do you want homemade flower arrangements? Do you want only a ceremony and no reception?

Remember, this elopement is about doing your special day your way.

So don’t be afraid to break the rules.

Write your own vows, choose your own decorations, and immerse yourself in an experience that’s true to you.

Step 6:  Decide on your timeline

Your timeline should be a blend of your vision for the day, and what’s possible at your location.

A catered meal may not be appropriate on a clifftop.

Or a first dance near Russell Falls. 

So spend some time planning your timeline to ensure your day runs smoothly. You want to enjoy it, not endure it!
Here’s a sample timeline for an adventure elopement:

2:00pm Photographer arrives to capture details of you both getting ready

3:30pm Head to trail with vendors and begin hiking to the ceremony location

4:30pm Arrive at location, get into your wedding attire and do hair and make-up

5:00pm Ceremony, the ring exchange, first kiss, signing of documents

5:30pm Portrait photos exploring the location, absorb the scenery as newlyweds

7:00pm Hike back down to the car

8:00pm Go to dinner, capture candid shots of the two of you and any guests

So there you have it

There’s no right or wrong way to hold an elopement.

Let your imagination run free. Your day can be anything you want it to be!

And if you’re looking for a great documentary photographer for your wedding, I’d love to hear from you.