Celebrate your special day in the woodlands of Connecticut for your fall elopement! Get inspired for your perfect elopement adventure with ideas for capturing the rustic beauty of New England and creating a romantic, unforgettable ceremony.

Couples Fall Elopement Vision

When Danielle and Michael first started planning their elopement, they had a vision of an outdoor ceremony with just their closest family. After searching for the perfect photographer, they came across me, instantly attracted to how my pictures captured natural moments between couples without looking staged or posed. Not only did I make them feel like the only two people in the world on their special day but also provided timeless art with each photograph.

For their elopement, they chose the Foxwoods Grand Pequot Tower Resort as their base. It served both as a place to get ready with their family, as well as an opportunity for them to enjoy a weekend getaway that included a concert and dinner with family. Best of all, they had spectacular views from their hotel room overlooking Connecticut's beautiful fall foliage.

Getting Ready at a Resort

Danielle and Michael had plenty of space to get ready for their big day with lots of bright, natural lighting. Danielle was accompanied by her friends as they did her hair and make-up before she reunited with her dad for the first look. 

She completed her modern bridal look with special touches, such as a necklace given to her by her father and embellished boots with tiny rhinestones. To make getting ready even more fun, Danielle had custom "Anti-Social Wives Club" sweatshirts made by her friend! Meanwhile, down the hall, Michael was also getting ready, surrounded by his brother and family. So it was easy for me to take great photos of both in their pre-wedding preparation.

Choosing their Connecticut Elopement Location

When Danielle and Michael decided to elope in Connecticut, they wanted a beautiful location close to their getting-ready venue. I sent them my location guide with plenty of recommendations that fit their interests, and when we finally met for the first time, they agreed on a spot near Groton. 

The ceremony site featured a wildflower field and a rock outcropping among pine trees, offering plenty of room for parking and permitting us to bring in Michael’s father’s motorcycle to honor him during family photo time. 

Later, we walked through the woods to a hidden creek with waterfalls and even cut cake while overlooking the beautiful landscape! They ultimately returned to the hotel where guests were able to spend time with Danielle and Michael before they headed off as husband and wife.

Here are More Ideas for Planning your Connecticut Fall Elopement

Select a Secluded Location with Fall Colors

Choose a secluded outdoor setting surrounded by breathtaking fall foliage in shades of red, yellow, and orange. Take advantage of Connecticut’s natural beauty with a ceremony set in a romantic meadow, beside a bubbling creek, or deep in mossy woods. Ask your guests to wear appropriate footwear and clothing for cooler temperatures,   Bring extra blankets or shawls to keep your guests warm on chilly autumn days.

Get Creative With Seasonal Food Pairings

Danielle’s mom made a chocolate tequila cake and adorned it with seasonal mums. We saved the best for last and had a cake cutting close to the parking area.  As the temperature dropped, Danielle added a custom jacket made for her called, “Wife of the Party.”

Some other ideas for a cozy, festive meal to enjoy at your elopement could be:

• Hot apple cider + apple cider donuts
• Chili can be served in mugs or small tins to keep things portable and interesting. 
• Set out a “grazing board” with local ingredients like mozzarella and honeycomb, sharp cheddar, apples, dried fruit and nuts, homemade jams and pickles, roasted pumpkin seeds or butternut squash soup shooters! The possibilities are endless!’

Incorporate Natural, Seasonal Elements into your Bouquet

Autumn brings countless vibrant colors that can be employed to make stunning bouquets + bouts. Consider incorporating in-season flowers and natural elements like dried leaves and berries, blush roses, goldenrod, dahlias, mums, chamomile, Queen Anne's Lace, or any mix of your favorite native blooms. To make things even more romantic, include family heirloom pieces such as a mother's artificial flower brooch or grandfather's vintage pocket watch into your bouquet.

Opt for Adventure Activities to Spice Up Your Elopement Day

Take your elopement to the next level and embrace Connecticut's natural beauty with some adventurous activities.  

• Start your day with a yoga class
• Get a massage
• Go horseback riding
• Explore a new hiking trail
• See the foliage from a hot air balloon
• Rent a private airplane to see the foliage
• Pack a picnic and visit a winery
• Go apple picking 
• Visit a local brewery and enjoy food truck food
• Visit an art or historical museum

See More Connecticut Elopement Inspiration Ideas