How to plan your chicago elopement in 2026

Max + Alisons Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool Elopement

1. LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION

Decide where you and your lover wanna tie the knot. I always encourage my couples to choose a place that has meaning to them. (example: where you first met, your favorite date spot, someplace with beautiful scenery or even book a airbnb, studio or intimate venue) I recommend doing this first because some places require permits, reservations or just a heads up to get you on their calendar. ALSO, doing this makes it 10x easier for the next step which is reaching out to vendors because you already have a date + location to give them.

2.book ur vendors

Officiant, florals, photographer, and anything else that will make your elopement dreams come to life. The possibilities are even more endless with eloping and it that means endless amounts of fun. Check out some of my preferred Chicago Intimate Wedding/Elopement Vendors here.

3. TIMELINE

Since you’re not doing the traditional nuptials you don’t have to have the traditional timeline. Elopements can vary from 2 hours to whole weekend get-a-way. The choice is truly yours to make. So I encourage you to create time for things that makes your and your partners heart happy. Think more of a flowing experience than a rigid timeline.

4. What to wear?

No matter what, DRESS FOR COMFORT + CONFIDENCE. I truly am the biggest advocate of doing things your way - so wear whatever works for you and your story.

5. Spend $ on things that matter to you

This step relates to everything we have discussed and is kinda self explanatory make the most of your budget by prioritizing what matters most.