While it’s not required to hire any particular vendors (hair & makeup artist, florist, etc.) for your day, partnering with a few high-quality, amazing vendors who are on board with helping you create your dream elopement can absolutely elevate your experience and showcase your unique style.
Vendors aren’t just for traditional weddings, I promise!
Choose Your Vendors & Details
Hiring vendors isn’t necessarily about turning your day into a big production, but about getting some help so you don’t have to do everything yourself. High quality vendors means you can relax, knowing some of the big day-of “to do’s” are in the hands of a professional, and you can just sit back and enjoy the experience.
The most common vendors that couples hire for elopements & intimate weddings are florists, hair & makeup artists, officiants, chefs & caterers, and videographers. If you have an idea and aren’t sure who to hire to help, just ask.
why you should hire vendors for your big day:
Before you hire any vendor, read lots of reviews to make sure they not only have the professional skills required but also fit with the vibe and experience you’re looking for.
If a vendor is going to be physically present on your day, see if you can talk to them on the phone or a video call to get a feel for their personality and make sure you enjoy being around them.
Read contracts carefully and make sure everything you’ve agreed upon is in writing.
Here’s my best advice on how to pick the best high-quality vendors:
I’ve gotten a lot of feedback from couples that they were happiest with their photos when they looked closer to their everyday selves. For example, if you typically wear your hair down, a fancy updo might not be the best option for you on your wedding day. Similarly, if you don’t wear a lot of makeup on a daily basis, you might not feel comfortable with a heavy makeup style on your wedding day.
To keep your skin looking true to life, it’s best to avoid mineral sunscreens, spray tans, and self-tanner on or before your elopement day.
Hair & Makeup Artist
when hiring these vendors
things to consider
When talking with your florist:
- Let them know your budget, color schemes, season, location, and vision for your day
- Tell them if you are hiking or expect the flowers to be jostled around a lot. If so, communicate that you’re looking for a hearty bouquet that will last
- Send photos and inspiration of what you’re looking for. Are you looking for a more “wild” bouquet, or something more round and traditional?
- Would you like any floral hair pieces? Boutonnieres? Corsages? Additional florals for decorating? Loose stems to use for photos of your details?
Be sure to trust in the professional and let them guide you through color theory and the creative process. Do your best to remain open to their ideas— a collaborative process always results in the most wonderful outcomes!
Florist
Marriage laws vary greatly throughout countries and states. For example, in some U.S. states you can legally self-solemnize (marry yourselves), while others may require an officiant and/or witness(es). In some states, you can even have a friend or family member get ordained easily and for free through an organization like the Universal Life Church, which is recognized in most U.S. states. If you do choose to have an officiant, they will play an important role in your ceremony, so it’s important to make sure you find someone you really click and connect with.
Officiant
Videographer
Catering + Private Chefs
Some considerations:
- Not all locations allow amplified music, especially in National Parks and public spaces, so a live musician can be a great alternative.
- Your lodging can offer a great private space for your wedding concert, especially if amplified music is not permitted at your ceremony site.
- Consider the mood you’re setting. Are you looking for something mellow and acoustic? Or something more upbeat for dancing and celebrations?
- Will you be doing a first dance? Are there specific songs you’d like played?
- Remember, music can be a great source of entertainment for all, especially if there will be some “down time” for guests while you’re out taking portraits.
Musician
Many eloping couples choose to indulge in some sort of sweets on their wedding day. Hey, why not?! Traditionally the dessert of choice is wedding cake, but you could absolutely think outside of the box and choose any favorite dessert—pies, cookies, cupcakes, ice cream, donuts, etc.!
Your baker will be able to guide you with portion sizes for the number of guests and will work with you to create the perfect design. Pinterest is a great place to gather some inspiration ahead of time too!
If this isn’t an area you’d like to splurge on, but you’d still like to enjoy a nice treat, consider going to a nearby bakery or organic grocery store and purchasing a pre-made dessert. You can easily transfer it to a beautiful plate, add some floral decorations around the edges, and have a professional looking dessert in no time!
Desserts + Wedding Cakes
Planners
- A jeweler that will let you make your own rings
- A live painter during your ceremony
- A tattoo artist who will give you wedding day tattoos
- A hot air balloon, helicopter, or float plane pilot
- A professional 4x4 or vintage vehicle driver
- A rock climbing, canyoneering, or mountaineering guide
Out of the Box Vendor Ideas
Vendor Recommendations
These are a few of my personal favorite vendors to work with. However, these are ideas and suggestions only. I do my absolute best to vet everyone who is on this list, but ultimately it’s your responsibility to do your own research, contact vendors directly, and to make your own decision on who you feel is best to hire. This is a constantly evolving list, so if you have a personal experience with a vendor that you’d like to share, I’m all ears!
click below to see specific vendors for each island
big island vendors
Oahu vendors
Kauai vendors
