Still Planning Your Intimate Spring Elopement? Here’s What I Think You Should Know

Planning a small spring wedding or intimate elopement on the Gulf Coast? Before you book that beach and start shopping for the dress, there are a few things I think you should know.

As a wedding photographer with 20+ years behind the camera, I’ve watched a LOT of Gulf Coast weather. And while every year is different, March can be a little unpredictable. It can rain, it can be windy, and yes—even here in Florida and Alabama, it can be downright chilly.

So have a backup plan. Trust me on this one.

Your Makeup Is Not the Place to Skimp

I see brides spend $100+ on shoes they may wear for a few hours, then hesitate to spend $150 on professional wedding makeup.

Ladies. Your face is in every photograph. 😂

Professional makeup isn't just about looking glamorous. It's about looking your absolute best on camera and having your makeup hold up through humidity, wind, happy tears, and a long wedding day.

Pamper yourself. You deserve it.

Think About Your Hair

Beach wind does not care about your wedding plans.

If you're getting married outside, I highly recommend having a hairstyle that can survive a little weather. Half-up, half-down is one of my favorite safe bets.

And have a backup hairstyle in mind.

Because if the wind decides your hair belongs in your face instead of where your hairstylist put it, there isn't much your photographer can do about it!

Check Your Permits

This is a big one for destination couples.

I live right on the Florida/Alabama line, and the rules aren't necessarily the same on both sides. Depending on where you're getting married, you may need permits or have specific rules regarding ceremonies, decorations, arches, chairs, or photography.

Do your homework before wedding day.

Give Yourself Something Pretty to Stand Under

If you're planning a beach ceremony, I LOVE a simple arbor decorated with flowers.

It gives your ceremony a focal point, photographs beautifully, and makes a tiny intimate wedding feel like an actual EVENT.

And let's be honest...your photographer will love you for it. 😉

Don't Forget About Your Getting-Ready Space

If you're having family and friends join you, or you're booking several hours of photography, consider renting a small Airbnb or beach house.

Having somewhere beautiful to get ready, relax, have a drink, take a few bridal portraits, and celebrate together can make your entire wedding day feel less rushed.

You don't need a giant wedding venue.

Sometimes a little beach house, your favorite people, your dress, some flowers, and a great photographer are all you really need.

And Yes...You Need a Great Photographer

This is where I come in.

I've spent more than 20 years learning how to photograph people in every kind of lighting and location, including the beautiful—and sometimes challenging—light we get here on the Gulf Coast.

My photography style is clean, vibrant, colorful, and timeless. I want your photographs to look like you, while still giving you those gorgeous Gulf Coast images you'll want to hang on your walls.

If you're planning a small spring wedding or destination elopement in Pensacola, Perdido Key, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, or along the Gulf Coast, I'd love to be the photographer behind it.

Because intimate doesn't mean your wedding photographs should feel like an afterthought.

Small wedding. Big memories. Let's make them beautiful.