WHETHER YOU HAVE ALREADY DECIDED OR YOU STILL FEEL TOTALLY LOST IN THE “ELOPEMENT JUNGLE”, THIS ELOPEMENT GUIDE was made TO HELP YOU PLANNING AND CONTAINS A LOT OF INSIDER INFORMATION THAT WILL MAKE PLANNING FOR AN ELOPEMENT IN SWITZERLAND EASIER.

DUE TO CORONA, IN 2020 I GOT THE PLEASURE OF CAPTURING AN ELOPEMENT IN THE SWISS MOUNTAINS WITH MY CAMERA FOR THE FIRST TIME. BECAUSE THE BRIDAL COUPLE WAS FORCED TO MARRY IN A VERY SMALL SCOPE DUE TO THE circumstances. SINCE THAT DAY I HAVE BEEN ABSOLUTELY THRILLED WITH THIS “TYPE” OF MARRY. AN ELOPEMENT OFFERS INCREDIBLE BENEFITS: YOU CAN REALLY ENJOY AND EXPERIENCE EACH OTHER. PLANNING IS SO MUCH EASIER THAN A BIG WEDDING AND ALL THE EXPECTATIONS OF THE WEDDING GUESTS. THE cost FOR AN ELOPEMENT IS A LOT LESS THAN A LARGE TRADITIONAL WEDDING. YOU CAN FILL YOUR DAY WITH YOUR FAVORITE ACTIVITIES AND BE SURROUNDED BY BREATHTAKING NATURE. AND SWITZERLAND OFFERS a lot of that.

IMAGINE YOU STANDING WITH YOUR FAVORITE PERSON, AFTER AN ADVENTUREs hike, AT SUNRISE IN THE MOUNTAINS AND YOU FEEL THE FIRST RAYS OF SUN ON YOUR SKIN. THERE IS A LIGHT WIND AND YOUR FAVORITE smiles AT YOU AND CONTINUES READING the MARRIAGE VOW. A TEAR OF JOY ROLLS DOWN YOUR FACE.
IF THESE WORDS MAKE YOUR ADVENTURE HEART BEAT FASTER, THEN I THINK AN ELOPEMENT IS JUST THE RIGHT thing to do. ;)

I GREW UP IN SWITZERLAND, HAVE Climbed SOME MOUNTAINS, BATHED IN MOUNTAIN LAKES AND AM ABSOLUTELY stoked TO GO WITH YOU TO THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES AND TO CAPTURE YOUR ELOPEMENT with my camera (AND ALSO WITH on VIDEO IF DESIRED)! :)

Why is an elopement a great idea?

Step by step planning
of your elopement

HERE YOU WILL FIND ALL THE INFORMATION TO PLAN THE PERFECT ELOPEMENT

2) Choosing your Elopement location in Switzerland

1) Elopement in the Swiss mountains
Our showpiece and probably the number 1 choice for an elopement in Switzerland: The Swiss Mountains. With over 1,950 mountains, there is an incredible variety of countless elopement locations. Famous places such as the Lauterbrunnen Valley, Zermatt, Davos, Grindelwald, etc. But there are also more than enough great elopement locations for everyone who would prefer to elope in less touristy places. I would be happy to help you brainstorm which location might be right for you if you are a bit overwhelmed by the many options.

2) Your elopement at a Swiss mountain lake
Here as well: there are so many incredible places of beautiful spots right next to a crystal-clear, blue mountain lake. The Oeschinen Lake, Lungernsee, Gantrischseeli, Blausee... are just a few examples of incredibly breathtaking mountain lakes.

3. Elope on a Swiss Mountain Pass
I think this option is particularly great because you can easily drive to a Swiss pass in summer and guests can also easily reach the place. On many passes the landscape is wild and simply magical. And often it also has a beautiful mountain lake. I'm happy to advise you here, I've been to quite a few mountain passes. :)

4. In a Swiss city such as Zurich or Bern
Do you feel the city vibe more than the mountains? Ok, no problem, I think it's incredibly cool too. No matter whether you want to have the Prime Tower in Zurich as a background or dance through the bars: I'm there and will capture it happily.

1) Think and exchange your wishes and ideas about what your elopement in Switzerland should be like

CHOOSING AN ELOPEMENT LOCATION HELPS A LOT TO PLANNING ALL THE FURTHER DETAILS AND DETERMINING A DIRECTION. SWITZERLAND OFFERS a lot of INCREDIBLY BREATHTAKING ELOPEMENT LOCATIONS. THERE'S DEFINITELY SOMETHING FOR EVERY WISH. (EXCEPT for A SEA, SWITZERLAND HAS EVERYTHING TO OFFER, IN MY OPINION :P) 

Go and get yourself a cup of coffee or tea to talk about how you imagine your elopement. What suits your character, what have you always wanted for your wedding day and what would you do just because you have to do it?

A few questions that can help you:
1) What are your favorite activities?
2) When do you feel most alive and in what environment?
3) What circumstances take a lot of energy away from you?
4) Do you prefer to be active or do you prefer to be relaxed?
5) Eloping just as a couple or with a few friends or family?
6) Where would you like to invest more budget and what has less priority?

An important point to consider when choosing where to hold the elopement is the accessibility of the location. Do you want to go on a three-hour hike to a remote location? Or should the location be accessible by car? Do you want luxurious accommodation nearby or would you prefer a cozy Airbnb? There are great solutions for all needs.

Summer
Summer probably offers the greatest freedom, as planning is in many ways easiest because the weather is warm. Many mountain railroads are open and the Swiss passes are also passable. In addition, many activities such as flying with a helicopter or paragliding can be done in most cases. Everything is in bloom, the waterfalls are breathtaking and full of thundering water and the days are long and bright. But rain-free weather is unfortunately not guaranteed in Switzerland in summer. It's worth having a backup plan ready for days like these.

Autumn
Definitely a little cooler than summer but really golden in color. From October onwards, everything turns orange and the colors are breathtaking. Especially in Canton of Graubünden, the yellow larks can be found in the Engadin at this time of year and the natural spectacle is incredible. If you're more Team Moody and you do enjoy a bit of fog and cooler temperatures, this is the time of year for you. Another advantage is that there are fewer tourists at this time of year. 

Winter
If you love snow and the cold doesn't bother you that much: Winter is incredible in Switzerland. The mountains are covered in snow and there are countless ski resorts for winter sports enthusiasts. Why not go snowboarding together on your elopement day and then enjoy a traditional fondue in a pretty mountain hut? More Swiss charm is almost impossible. :)

Spring
Everything starts to blossom and awakens to new life. As in autumn, the temperatures are fresh and the tourists are still a little "cautious". The cherry blossoms bloom in mid-spring, which are simply unbelievably beautiful. However, the passes are still closed and not all mountain railroads are running. However, from a budget point of view, everything is certainly a little cheaper as it is still low season. 

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SEASON? AT WHAT TEMPERATURES DO YOU FEEL COMFORTABLE? WITH ITS FOUR VERY DIFFERENT SEASONS, SWITZERLAND OFFERS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE.

WINTER, SPRING, SUMMER OR FALL? HERE ARE ALL THE ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES.

4) Select and book the service providers for your elopement

3) Choosing the best time of year for your elopement

Elopement Photographer & Videographer
In my opinion, the two most important people are the photographer and your videographer. Because these people capture the memories of what will hopefully be one of the best days of your lives and document everything properly so that nothing is forgotten. My wish for you is that it can be a match in terms of photography and videography style as well as character. Because you are spending the day with these people and you should feel completely at ease and have fun. That's why I recommend that you choose your elopement photographer and videographer as soon as possible. Photographers are often fully booked for months, so it's worth looking for a date during the week and not on a Saturday. 

Have a look at the different photographers, compare the prices and services, ask yourself whether the style and character of the photographer suits you. I also recommend booking the photographer and videographer as a team if possible, so that the colors and communication harmonize and match.

You can find more information about my Elopement photo and video offers here. Of course I would be incredibly happy to photograph your elopement in Switzerland, yaay. :)

Elopement planner
If your budget allows, I always recommend booking an elopement planner. This way you can specify your wishes without any stress and everything will be organized for you. Planning can be very difficult, especially if you don't live in Switzerland. I am happy to help you with the planning as much as I can, but I am definitely not an elopement planner. :) 

Here are two recommendations: 
elopeinswitzerland.com & liebesding.ch

Depending on your wishes, I recommend booking the following service providers for your elopement: 
Hair & Make-up
Elopement speaker
Florist
Catering
Hiking or mountain guide

I WOULD BE HAPPY TO GIVE YOU RECOMMENDATIONS OF PEOPLE WHO LIVE NEAR YOUR ELOPEMENT LOCATION AND WITH WHOM I HAVE HAD GOOD EXPERIENCES.

FILL THE DAY WITH THINGS YOU ENJOY DOING

6) Your Elopement clothes

Warm temperatures
In warm temperatures in summer, I recommend having a change of shirt with you, refreshing items such as: Water, deodorant, a hat and sunscreen. This will keep you fresh and comfortable all day long. 

Cold temperatures
In cool or very cold temperatures, it is a good idea to wear layers that you can take off if necessary. A warm coat, gloves and tea are also great so that you don't get stiff from the cold. During an elopement in Switzerland, almost any weather can happen. It's best to have a backup plan in case the weather doesn't turn out as planned. An umbrella, rain jacket or thermal clothing can help you to have a great time despite the wind and rain. A down jacket can also help to keep you warm in the cooler temperatures in the morning or evening.

Snacks and light luggage
In addition, tasty snacks help to keep spirits high, whether hot or cold. :)
It's best to take as little as necessary but enough to have a pleasant day. Your luggage should be as light as possible but not uncomfortable to carry. 

Tips for the material of the elopement dresses
Choose material for the wedding dress and suit that is as wrinkle-free as possible. You should also be able to move easily in them and feel super comfortable. 

Travel tips 
Check out the requirements from the airline if you have wedding dresses with you. It is best to have all your important items, including your wedding dress and wedding clothes, in your hand luggage and stow them carefully in the hand luggage compartment. 

5) Choose your Elopement activities to make the day perfect

IF YOU'RE PLANNING A SHORT OR LONG HIKE ON YOUR ELOPEMENT DAY, THEN IT MIGHT BE A GOOD IDEA NOT TO WEAR YOUR WEDDING Clothes. FOR A SHORT HIKE OF 20 MINUTES, HOWEVER, IT CAN ALSO WORK REALLY WELL AND WITH HIKING BOOTS YOU'LL STILL BE SURE-FOOTED. THINK ABOUT HOW YOU FEEL MOST COMFORTABLE AND HOW IT IS MOST CONVENIENT FOR YOU.

Your elopement is about so much more than just the wedding vows. (Although that will probably be a major highlight :)) But you can fill the day with many more highlights. 

Here are a few adventure ideas: 
Dog sledding
Skiing or snowboarding
Flying a helicopter to a glacier
Take a tour on a glacier
Paragliding
Mountain biking tour
Fishing in a mountain lake
A hike to an SAC hut (followed by an overnight stay)
A cozy picnic in a flower meadow in the mountains
A bar tour through Zurich
Paddling across a mountain lake in a rowing boat (and taking a dip, of course)
A visit to the art museum
and so on... I'm sure you can think of even more great ideas.  

But you can also focus on culinary delights if that's more your thing. :) Switzerland has great must-try dishes like: Fondue (watch out for cheese overdose haha), Rösti or Älpler Makkronen. 

My ideas and tips for booking an accommodation: 
If you also want to have Getting Ready photos, then look for a nice accommodation with as much light as possible. Not all hotel rooms are really beautiful, it's a good idea to look at pictures if this is important to you. 

I recommend to book your accommodation as close as possible to your elopement location. 

It is also possible to book a stay that can only be reached by cable car. It is important to note that the photographer and videographer will have to spend the night there, as the cable cars usually close at 5 p.m., which means before the best light of the day appears. 

Personally, I think it's a great solution to book an Airbnb. It gives you a lot of freedom, you can have unique stay and you can also save a lot on your budget. You can cook for yourself if you want or simply visit a nearby restaurant. 

Whether you're looking for luxury or a little adventure accommodation without electricity, Switzerland really has it all. 

Transportation
Think about whether you prefer to travel by rental car or by train. Both have advantages and disadvantages. By car you are very flexible and can get everywhere. However, the mountain roads are not so relaxed for everyone. (But the Swiss are nice people, don't worry :)) Taking the train is much more relaxed and believe me: I don't know of any other country that has such a well-developed train and bus network. It's worth considering whether you want to buy a GA travelcard/pass for the time you are in Switzerland. Sometimes the mountain railroads are included, but not always. The SBB staff will be happy to advise you.

OKEY THAT'S ONE OF THE BEST PARTS OF THE PLANNING process IN MY OPINION. NOW THINGS ARE GETTING REALLY REAL AND EXCITING! I'M HAPPY TO SHARE MY TIPS AND TRICKS FOR PLANNING THE DAY WITH YOU. BUT AGAIN, IT'S IMPORTANT TO ME THAT IT'S TAILORED EXACTLY TO YOUR WISHES AND NEEDS. 

NOW IT'S GETTING SERIOUS, YASSS :)

8) Timetable and schedule of your elopement

7) Booking flights, accommodation and transportation

However, there are countless ways to organize the day. You can also choose the early and beautiful morning light for the vows and then do different activities or a hike throughout the day. Customize the schedule according to your wishes and your character. I am happy to help you create the schedule for your elopement. I am also happy to spend the night in a mountain hotel and also capture the next day if you are planning a two-day elopement.

HERE IS A 9hrs-Elopement schedule AS INSPIRATION




12.00
GETTING READY AT THE HOTEL OR AIRBNB
 1.30 p.n.
FIRST LOOK 
2.15 p.m.
CABLE CAR OR CAR RIDE TO A UNIQUE LOCATION (WITH POWER SNACKS :))
3–5 p.m.
HIKE OR ACTIVITY
5–6 p.m.
PICNIC OR MEAL IN A MOUNTAIN HUT
6–6.30 p.m.
POSSIBLY CHANGE AND GET READY 
6.30–7 p.m.
READing WEDDING VOWS, EXCHANGE RINGS, CHAMPAGNE, ETC. 
7–8 p.m.
PHOTO SHOOT IN THE MOST BEAUTIFUL golden sunset LIGHT
8–9 p.m.
WALK/Hike BACK

NOW IT'S TIME TO BOOK YOUR FLIGHT TO SWITZERLAND, YOUR ACCOMMODATION AND THINK ABOUT YOUR TRANSPORTATION. IT'S BEST TO DO THIS 3-6 MONTHS BEFORE YOUR ELOPEMENT DATE. IF YOU ARE ELOPING IN THE HIGH SEASON IN SUMMER, IT IS ADVISABLE TO DO THIS AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE. MANY POPULAR ACCOMMODATIONS SUCH AS HOTELS OR AIRBNB'S ARE BOOKED UP QUICKLY.

A few tips & tricks 
Always plan a little more time than "necessary". Things usually take longer than you think and the last thing you need on your elopement day is stress. You should be able to be completely relaxed in the moment. 

Allow enough time for transportation, whether by car, train or cable car. Buy tickets for the cable cars in advance if possible or allow enough time for this. Find out about the parking situation and the costs involved and how payment is made so that no unnecessary time is lost. 

Food
Plan time for snacks and proper meals. Nothing is more tedious than getting hangry or losing energy because you forget to eat on your elopement day. 

Backup plan for bad weather
A backup plan for a change in the weather is super important. A backup location or a backup day can help you to have a great day no matter which kind of weather it will be. 

Elopement Packages
In my price list I have a 4h elopement package and a 6h elopement package. But honestly: you can choose the hours individually, no matter how long or short your elopement is: I'm in. Even if it's 8-10 hours, I'm happy to be at your side and document the day from beginning to the end. 

Elopement
Checklist

1) DISCUSS AND DREAM TOGETHER WHAT YOUR ELOPEMENT DAY SHOULD LOOK LIKE.

2) THINK ABOUT THE LOCATION, THE SCENERY AND THE RIGHT TIME OF YEAR.
 
3) DEFINE THE ELOPEMENT DATE. (I RECOMMEND A WEEKDAY) IT'S BEST TO CHOOSE A DATE AND FIND OUT IF YOUR DESIRED PHOTOGRAPHER AND VIDEOGRAPHER ARE FREE ON THAT DATE BEFORE YOU COMMIT TO IT.

4) BOOK YOUR ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER AND VIDEOGRAPHER.

5) BOOK AN ELOPEMENT PLANNER IF YOU WANT ONE.

6) BOOK YOUR FLIGHT, ACCOMMODATION AND TRANSPORTATION.

7) BOOK THE OTHER WEDDING SERVICE PROVIDERS.

8) INFORM YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY IF YOU HAVE GUESTS AT YOUR ELOPEMENT

9) BUY YOUR WEDDING DRESSES AND ANY ADDITIONAL ITEMS SUCH AS: Hiking SHOES, DOWN JACKET, HAT, SUNGLASSES ETC.. 

10) CREATE YOUR DAILY SCHEDULE AND A BACKUP PLAN
DISCUSS THE DAILY SCHEDULE WITH YOUR PLANNER AND ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER

11) I RECOMMEND THAT YOU GET OFFICIALLY MARRIED IN YOUR HOME COUNTRY AND HOLD THE ELOPEMENT SYMBOLICALLY. 

OKYDOKY! LET’S ELOPE!

Elopement In the swiss mountains in Canton of Valais

3)

Elopement at Oeschinen Lake

2)

TAKE A LOOK AT THESE ELOPEMENT GALLERIES!

Do you need a little more Swiss elopement inspiration?

ElopementIn the swiss alps

1)

And an 
elopement
video as
inspiration