Complete guide to West Virginia elopements- including top 5 places to elope {updated for 2024}
How to Elope in West Virginia
Don’t you think it’s time to get married however the hell you want? We sure do.
Maybe you’re here because tradition never felt right to you.
Or because you’re tired of people telling you what you have to do or have to have.
If the urge to do something different won’t leave your gut and you’re ready to take control of your wedding day, find out how we can help your elopement dreams come to life here.
TOP 5 WEST VIRGINIA ELOPEMENT LOCATIONS & PACKAGES
Everything you need to know about how to elope in West Virginia: updated for 2024.
Thinking of ditching the stress and pressure that comes with a traditional wedding and just...eloping? You’re in the right spot because we LOVE helping plan and document elopements in West Virginia. We know the ins and outs and where to go, what to do, and how to get there. Consider us your elopement experts- with that comfy, feels-like-you’ve-known-us-forever type of energy.
We’ve been in your shoes- feeling the pressure of planning a wedding just to make everyone else happy. But deep down we knew we wanted to do something different and started googling “how to elope”, probably just like you. After we dug down deep and listened to our gut, we went through with our destination elopement plans and learned a ton along the way. Through that bold wedding choice back in 2017, the future foundation of our business was born: helping folks live out fun, unique (and sometimes adventurous) wedding days.
Our passion, and knowledge, of elopements is deep. We created this guide to share what we know and help everyone who is bold enough, to experience a new type of wedding day. A West Virginia Elopement to be exact.
WHAT EXACTLY IS AN ELOPEMENT AND WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT ELOPING IN WEST VIRGINIA
In the traditional sense, an elopement is where two people decide to get married secretly. But these days, that definition has evolved. Now eloping means having an intentional wedding with minimal guests (sometimes none!) usually in a location that is meaningful to the couple instead of some stuffy barn venue. Catering, centerpieces, and matching bridesmaid dresses are forgotten and instead, the focus is on love, an unforgettable experience, and saving money.
Some things to consider when planning your West Virginia elopement:
1. Monday-Thursday are ideal elopement days in WV
Hot tip: weekdays work best to ensure a private celebration. On the weekends, popular spots in WV can get fairly busy, especially in the summer months, so picking a weekday is a solid plan for an intimate wedding.
2. Plan your ceremony 2-3 Hours Before Sunset or Near Sunrise
Follow the sun. Usually around 2-3 hours before sunset is the best time to schedule the specific ceremony start time for your elopement. This provides the best lighting for photos and will help if it is a hot summer day as the evenings will be cooler. The only exception is if you choose Dolly Sods where the lighting (and weather) is a bit tricky.
3. Plan and pack with intention
You’ll need to have your wedding attire packed and ready to go. Are you changing in the car and hiking to your ceremony? Will you be getting ready in a nearby cabin? Whatever your plan for the day is, make sure you're prepared with hygiene products, any accessories you plan to bring, and any decor you plan to use (like an arbor or a “we eloped” sign).
Also, do some research on the typical weather near your elopement date so you can prepare accordingly with a rain jacket, sunscreen, or a portable fan if it’s really hot. Skip the heels and plan for hiking sandals/boots if you’re wanting to adventure for your elopement. Consider having a bag of snacks in case you get hangry, plenty of water, and maybe some champagne or 6-pack of your favorite local WV beer. Support a local baker and get a small wedding cake or cupcakes. You can include as little or as much details as you’d like- it’s your wedding after all!
4. Plan ahead: Get your papers in order for your West Virginia elopement
It’s not all fun and games. To be officially married, you’ll have to plan ahead to get your marriage license and any legal documents you may need. Include enough time in your planning to allow for your county’s requirements to obtain a marriage license. Click here for all the info in Kanawha County.
Fun fact: your photographer can act as a witness!
5. Pick a Date Between The Late Spring To Early Fall for The Best Weather
The weather in West Virginia can be a bit unpredictable, but there are times throughout the year that remain fairly stable. May through October is a safe time to plan your elopement for ideal weather conditions.
*PHOTO*
West VirginiaElopement Checklist:
1. You and your partner (obvi!)
2. An officiant- a professional or if you know someone ordained (check out this list on WeddingWire).
3. You’ll need two witnesses - your photographer can act as one too!
4. Flowers are always a beautiful touch. My favorite florists include Shyla Marie Thomas Yard, or Rooted in Flora
5. There are wedding planners who can turn an elopement into something magical: Alyssa B. Events
6. If you want videography coverage of your day, we offer videography coverage as well as photography. Or check out my talented friend, Lady Mountain Films.
7. If you want to make it a complete elopement - don’t forget the booze! And check out some amazing bakeries for a small cake or cupcakes! Mountain State Cakesor Rock City Cake Co.
Becomin’ Official: The West Virginia Marriage License
Here’s the deal: licenses are issued by county, which means that you’ll have to apply through a county clerk at either your county of residence or the county where you’ll be getting married. Marriage licenses in West Virginia must be used within 60 days of issue. At a minimum, you’ll need to have:
Both partners present
Valid identification in the form of a driver's license, state-issued ID, passport, or permanent resident card
Both of your social security numbers
Full names of each set of parents
A check or credit card to pay the $56 application fee. If you have a premarital certificate of completion, the fee is lowered to $36
If either to-be-wed was previously married, the exact date of the divorce decree or former spouse's death needs to be presented
The Best Places to Elope in West Virginia
A photographers opinion
Dolly Sods
BlackWater Falls
New River Gorge/Fayetteville
Spruce Knob
Snowshoe Mountain
Looking for something adventurous? The Eastern side of West Virginia has some BREATHTAKING elopement locations.
A few of my favorite locations for elopements in West Virginia with scenic views include:
Dolly Sods
Arguably one of the most unique, and beautiful hiking areas on the East Coast (I agree). The high plateaus of Dolly Sods are made up of wind carved sand stone, stunted red spruce, grassy meadows, and sphagnum bogs. Basically a dream to photograph. Weather can change quickly as can lighting, but that’s part of the fun. Expect to see tons of flora and fauna in this piece of paradise.
The best time to elope at Dolly Sods in West Virginia is in late June through middle of October, and on a weekday only. The weekends are WAY too crowded to attempt to park, let alone get married. The surrounding town near Dolly Sods are super fun to explore too, we have lots of recommendations on where to eat, things to do, etc. Basically this area is our fave and once we show you a full Dolly Sods elopement gallery, I’ll bet that this location will be at the top of your list for your elopement in WV.
You will likely encounter other folks on the trails while we’re taking photos, but it’ll be few. And they’re really kind and usually just say congrats and be on their way. For your ceremony, we do know of a secret spot where you can 99% expect full privacy for your vows.
If you’re the adventurous type, Dolly Sods has thousands of acres to explore. It’s a popular backpacking spot, for good reason, so if long treks in the wilderness if your jam (it’s ours too!), this spot is the one to make a full trip out of it.
Dolly Sods is closed January (sometimes even December) through April. It’s also worth to note that there is limited cell service up there (another reason we love it so much tbh)
Blackwater Falls
Tucked in the Allegheny Mountains, Blackwater Falls State Park centers a 57-foot cascade tinted black by the tannic acid of fallen hemlock and spruce needles.It’s a scenic and wondrous spot with more than 20 miles of hiking trails.
Stop by the Thomas Yard before your elopement and pick up one of their stunning floral arrangements for your bouquet!
Spruce Knob
Spruce Knob Mountain Center (SKMC) is a 400-acre high-elevation nature preserve located in the Potomac Highlands of West Virginia. The Potomac Highlands feature some of the darkest night skies in the Eastern U.S., the highest peak in the state (Spruce Knob), the healthiest streams in the state, extensive Red Spruce and northern hardwood forests, natural springs, and numerous caves. SKMC offers unique yurts for lodging accommodations.
Easily in the top 5 backpacking routes in the mid-Atlantic. The Spruce Knob/Seneca Creek circuit has beautiful meadows, mountain vistas, waterfalls, and the best camping to be found. Starting at Spruce Knob, the tallest peak in West Virginia, the hike also has a short 1/2 mile circuit at the summit with beautiful panoramic and views of the valley.
The best time of year to enjoy this hike is July-September when the temps are almost spring like at these 5K foot altitudes. If you hike this circuit in September, you'll also get to enjoy the fields of blackberries on the High Meadows Trail.
Snowshoe Mountain
While ‘mountain’ may be an over exaggeration, Snowshoe Mountain is one of the most famous outdoor locations in WV - and for good reason. Boasting ski areas, endless bike trails, and activities galore, this beautiful spot is for the adventurers.
Planning an elopement at Snowshoe means that you’re at the top of the world, with those you love most. The staff at Snowshoe can step in and help with wedding planning, as well as lodging. Use the chapel if you prefer a religious setting or choose one of the insane views for an outdoor setting. Head to Appalachia kitchen for your reception, a cool open space that can accomodate large parties and a bar (sometimes with a band) upstairs.
Honorable Mentions
Charleston
Beautiful Charleston - a getaway in Appalachian Mountains. This is for the artsy, the outdoorsy, and the curious. Some elopement spots just 30 minutes from Charleston include...
| Courthouse |
Head to the courthouse to have your ceremony performed by a judge. Then head to downtown for some laid-back reception ideas like pizza and beer at Pies and Pints. Trust your photographer to find cool spots for photos in downtown Charleston.
Known as an outdoor playground, the Kanawha State Forest offers a variety of scenic settings to say ‘I do.’ Plan for a camping elopement, hike after your wedding, or simply relax by a campfire and swap stories.
For the lovers of vintage and history. Hale Street Center offers a cozy spot to profess your love. With exposed brick, tin ceiling, steel beams, and beautiful city views, the Center offers ample space to customize your small elopement. Bonus: it photographs BEAUTIFULLY.
Benedict Haid Farm is a picturesque 650 acre ridge-top estate with picturesque views and ample space to celebrate. If you’re feeling like a small elopement with friends and family fits your vision, they offer lodge rentals for a full weekend celebration.
You can’t elope in West Virginia and not consider some of West Virginia’s richest history as location options. Take a look at these Southern WV elopement spots.
| The Greenbrier Resort |
Being fancy ain’t a bad thing. The Greenbrier resort is a luxury getaway tucked in the Allegheny Mountains. The estate offers sprawling gardens, exquisite architecture, and a lavish feel. It’s timeless and elegant.
The possibilities to make your elopement at The Greenbrier truly unique and special are endless. Stay in a totally instagram-worthy (also historic!) rooms, have a date at the spa, and try your hand at golf. Or be like me and pretend you're at a destination resort and sip drinks at the pool all day.
New River Gorge
A flowing river? Check. Deep and scenic canyons? Check.
The New River Gorge is off the map, but that’s why it’s appealing. With over 70,000 acres of land to play in, there’s more than enough secret spots to get hitched. If you ask nicely, I can point you to my favorite corners of this state park to say I do.
Mystery Hole
A little something for my quirky friends out there who wanna elope but also wanna make it unique. Get hitched amongst a background of artsy and strange ‘mysteries.’ Spoiler: there’s a gorilla.
Meet your West Virginia elopement team!
A husband and wife, photo + video duo who is super stoked you’re here.
Michelle + Tom
Two West Virginia lovers helping couples live adventurous elopements, destination, and rad wedding dreams.
We absolutely love when people decide to get married differently and choose elopements over traditional weddings. We offer help with choosing a perfect location, creating a custom timeline, and making vendor recommendations to truly make your day everything you want it to be. We’d be honored to be considered to be your elopement photographer and videographer extraordinaires.
Schedule an elopement consultation
If you’re a busy bee and what someone to handle all of the planning and all of the logistics, check out West Virginia Elopement Collective, where we literally take care of everything for you!