Is Eloping Right for You?

 

Is Eloping Right for You?

A Guide for Couples Considering an Elopement in Montreal or Beyond

Planning a wedding can feel like a whirlwind—guest lists, venues, timelines, family opinions... It’s a lot. If you’ve ever thought, “What if we just kept it simple?”—you’re not alone. Couples across Montreal, the Eastern Townships, and beyond are increasingly choosing to elope—and it’s easy to see why.

So, is eloping right for you? Let’s walk through what elopement really means, why so many couples are leaning into it, and whether it might be the perfect fit for your story.

Intimate civil ceremony at Montreal's Palais de Justice courthouse

From courthouse to cuteness in under an hour.

What Is an Elopement?

An elopement isn’t just a “small wedding”—it’s a wedding that’s intentionally scaled down to focus on what truly matters: the two of you. It might be just the couple, or a handful of close loved ones, in a setting that feels meaningful, relaxed, and true to your story.

Elopements trade tradition for intimacy. There’s no big production, no strict schedule, no pressure to perform—just real emotion, real moments, and space to be fully present.

And let’s be honest—they can also be a lot more affordable. With fewer guests, no large venue, and a simplified timeline, many couples find they can save thousands of dollars. That means you can invest more in what truly matters to you—like an unforgettable location, meaningful photos, or a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon.

How That Translates to Photography

As photographers, elopements give us the space to slow down, observe, and capture the kind of images that go beyond posed portraits. We document the quiet in-between moments, the laughter that bubbles up, the hand squeezes, the tears, and the way you look at each other when no one else is around.

Elopement photography is storytelling at its most honest—and that’s exactly what we love to do.

Bride and groom walking hand in hand through the vineyard at Domaine de Dunham during their wedding day

Married in minutes, wandering the vineyard for a lifetime.

Planning Your Elopement in Montreal (Or Anywhere in Quebec)

Even a simple elopement benefits from a bit of thoughtful planning:

  • Check the legal side – Make sure you have your paperwork in order to get legally married in Quebec.

  • Pick the right time of day – Light matters. We’ll help you plan for the best natural light for your ceremony and photos.

  • Permits and permissions – Some locations (especially in parks) may require advance permission. We can help guide you through that.

  • Choose a photographer who gets you – This one’s key. You want someone who’ll make you feel comfortable and capture the real you.

    Elopement Photography Packages That Fit Your Day

    One of the things we love most about elopements? No two are the same—so your photography coverage shouldn’t be either.

    Whether you're planning a quiet weekday ceremony at city hall, a mountaintop “I do,” or something totally unique, we offer flexible wedding photography packages that work beautifully for elopements and intimate weddings.

    You’ll find options for shorter coverage, quick turnarounds (hello, 5-day gallery delivery!), and all the essentials you need—without the extras you don’t.

Bride and groom laughing together during their wedding reception at Navark Island in Boucherville, Quebec

From ‘I do’ to ‘let’s dance’—all in under 30 minutes.

Ready to Plan Your Elopement in Quebec?

If the last few years have shown us anything, it’s that a meaningful wedding doesn’t need a big guest list or a traditional venue. Eloping can be just as magical, emotional, and unforgettable—sometimes even more so.

If you’ve made it this far, chances are you're seriously considering an elopement. Trust that instinct. Choosing a smaller, more intentional celebration is just as valid—and just as beautiful—as any big wedding.

Whether you picture exchanging vows in a Montreal courthouse, on a quiet mountaintop, or somewhere completely off the beaten path, your elopement should reflect you.

At the end of the day, it’s all about your love, your commitment, and making memories that feel true to who you are. You can always plan a celebration with friends and family later—but this moment? It’s just for you.

If you're thinking about eloping in Montreal, the Eastern Townships, or anywhere in Quebec, we’d love to help bring that vision to life.

Not sure how to choose the right photographer? Download our free checklist to help you find someone who truly fits your day and your vibe.