TAKE A LOOK AT HOW RUBY + DOREN WERE ABLE TO PULL OF THEIR DREAM HAWAII ADVENTURE ELOPEMET WHILE ON A BUDGET. PLUS, CHECK OUT ALL OF THE HAWAII ELOPEMENT INSPIRATION THAT YOU DIDNT KNOW YOU NEEDED.

Ruby and Doren knew they wanted to elope. They chose Hawaii because neither had been and it seemed like the perfect place to adventure together. But, it wasn’t in their budget to do an extended adventure shoot or to actually have their elopement in Hawaii.

Their budget was tight so they got creative.

Shortly before their trip to the islands, Ruby and Doren had a secret courthouse zoom ceremony.  No frills, no crazy expenses.  Days later, they hopped on a plane for their honeymoon and Hawaii adventure elopement photoshoot!

Again, it wasn’t in the budget to book my most popular 4-hour adventure package, and so they booked 2 hours.  This limits the places we can explore on the island but we found a lovely spot with easy access that I knew would be perfect for them!

And it was!

Ruby wore a beautiful dress she purchased off of Etsy, while Doren wore simple khakis and a white button-up top.

In their lovely attire, we set off on the trail together and had an absolute blast!  For them, it was fun, relaxed, a time of connection and intimacy, and the best part; it was the “wedding” they dreamed of.

5 Tips for an Hawaii Adventure Elopement on a Budget

As an elopement photographer, I’ve seen so many unique scenarios much like this one.

Couples planning a wedding that is uniquely them.  And YES! You have permission to think way outside the box.  Because it’s your day!  And a Hawaii adventure elopement on a budget can definitely be in your future!  Below you’ll find a few tips on how to save on your elopement!

Scroll to the end of this blog post to find out more and find links to some of my guides and resources for planning a Hawaii elopement!

ONE | PICK A FREE LOCATION

When planning your elopement ceremony, choose a location that’s free!

The thing is, you don’t have to elope at a resort.  There are many natural and beautiful locations to elope that either cost nothing, or a small permit fee of $20.

TWO | Stay at an Airbnb

The resorts can be expensive, and they typically charge for daily parking.  In addition, you’re more likely to eat out at every meal with a lack of a kitchen.  An Airbnb is a great way to do Hawaii lodging on a budget.

Find a condo or unique spot with a kitchen!

THREE | Do Your Own Hair and Makeup.

This is a great way to save money, especially because adventure elopements often include unpredictable weather, including the wind and rain.

FOUR | Don’t Break the Bank on Wedding Shoes

Beach elopements are lovely barefoot.

And if you’re trekking into a remote location you’ll need shoes to hike with.  Traditional wedding shoes will get destroyed.

FIVE | Purchase Your Gown Through Etsy or Find a Shop that Sells Used Gowns

Expect your wedding gown to get nice and dirty on a Hawaii adventure elopement!

Ruby found her stunning gown at a very affordable price on Etsy!  Or, see if there are any used wedding gown shops in your area.  Adorned in Grace, located in the PNW, donates a portion of its proceeds to fighting human trafficking.

Anthropologie is another great option.

Check out their bridesmaid’s dresses which could also double as a wedding gowns.  Sometimes they can be as cheap as $200!

INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT
HAWAII ADVENTURE ELOPEMENTS?!

Click HERE to read my guide to writing the perfect wedding vows!