You’re here because
you’ve found this once-in-a-lifetime kind of love
the kind of love that’s rare, uncommon, and life-changing
So you want an elopement experience unlike anything else you’ve seen
One that feels as out-of-this-world incredible as your relationship does
And you don’t want it to rush by
You want to get caught up in the magic of it.
I already love that about you.
“Working with Maddie was so exciting and inspiring right from the start – we loved the whole planning process and our elopement day SO much that words can’t do it justice.
We initially didn’t know where to begin with the planning, we just had some vague ideas about location (somewhere warm) and activities (hiking and a beach ceremony) but during our first call Maddie took note of everything that was important to us and put together an incredible proposal that somehow perfectly captured exactly what we were looking for (and more!).
I had followed Adventure Instead for years on IG so we felt confident we could trust Maddie to create something really special and personal for us, but to have the experience first-hand was better that we ever could have imagined. Maddie’s attention to detail is second to none (and I say this as a total Type A myself) – but just as importantly her expertise, passion and creativity shone through at every stage and helped reassure us if we had any worries during the planning process.
Our elopement was truly the most magical and joyful day of our lives. Maddie was so calm and prepared that we didn’t have to worry about anything – we could just be present with each other and soak up every moment, which is exactly what we had dreamed of. We absolutely LOVED the beautiful sneak peek images we received super quickly after our day – without exception they perfectly capture how rosy and romantic all of the memories are in our minds.
Maddie is a total gem – she has such a kind, uplifting, caring and supportive energy – it was a real joy to trust her and to share our day with her. She did everything she could to make our elopement as special and seamless as possible – from fixing our dresses to helping us to feel relaxed in front of the camera (and pushing our 4×4 out when we got stuck in a dirt road!) – it honestly felt like she was as excited as we were to be celebrating our love in such a special place.
We really appreciated how wonderful it was to feel so cared for and in such safe hands all day – we had so much fun we seriously wish we could do the whole thing again and again. We will treasure the memories (and photos!) forever.”
– Libby & Kate
Hi, it’s lovely to meet you.
I’m Maddie Mae
Your:
+ Elopement Photographer
+ Experience Designer
+ Planning Consultant
(and wild-travel-story-sharing friend)
all wrapped into one.
I don’t just photograph elopements, I design and plan a curated, unique experience around the two of you—one you’ll enjoy every minute of.
Unique perks of working with me
The same reasons you’re eloping are
why I became an elopement photographer
Before I knew elopements were an option, I photographed big weddings for five years. I loved being a part of wedding days, but I also saw how stressed and miserable couples were trying to make everyone else happy by being the host of a giant party for everybody but them.
So when a couple from Texas called me up in 2015—two weeks before they wanted to elope in Colorado (they had never been before)—and asked if I would help them find a spot where they could say their vows…
That was honestly the most exciting question anyone’s ever asked me.
The fact that they wanted to say their vows in a mind-blowing location so they could feel the sense of awe and grandeur as they stood there committing their lives to one another—it lit up my soul.
I got to work right away and found the perfect location for them to elope in Rocky Mountain National Park. I excitedly planned their whole experience for them and made sure it went seamlessly.
And the day of their elopement? That day literally changed my life.
To get to see a couple have a wedding day that was completely about them—seeing them lock eyes with each other, be completely present, have zero stress and actually enjoy every single minute of it and not want it to end—I had never seen that at a wedding before even having photographed hundreds of wedding days.
I got into my car afterward and sobbed my eyes out.
I decided right then and there that I didn’t even care if it was a thing (and it really wasn’t back in 2015)—I was going to become an elopement photographer.
So I did. Just two years later, I photographed a season of 55 elopements in 13 countries and kind of accidentally found myself the pioneer of the adventure elopement niche. There’s actually an article in Forbes calling me, “the woman who sparked the adventure elopement trend.”
So I feel it’s safe to say that
I don’t think you’ll find anyone else more obsessed with elopements.
I have dedicated my entire career to helping as many couples know that this way of getting married is a legitimate (and amazing) option, whether they hire me or not.
Every single couple deserves to have a safe space to be their real selves on their wedding day—free from judgment, expectations, and stress—and instead be completely present, in-the-moment, and experience unbridled joy and euphoria.
And that’s why we’re here right now.
Awards & Features

5-Star Rated | 200+ Reviews

There are not enough excessive adjectives to describe how thrilled we were with Maddie Mae as our wedding photographer. We first contacted her during our very early planning stages when we didn’t know exactly what we wanted for our adventurous elopement but were fairly sure we wanted it to involve a helicopter. We communicated throughout the whole process, and when we finally narrowed down our perfect vision for our day (which involved a helicopter landing on a snowy mountaintop followed by a beach picnic followed by riding bikes on the beach) she immediately understood and embraced our vision with the same adventurous spirit we have!
– Kari & Karin, Eloped on Vancouver Island, Canada

“Maddie isn’t just your photographer, she also is your own personal hype girl—always making you feel like the most beautiful (or handsome) person in the world. She’s your honorary matron of honor and best man, she’s your officiant and elopement planner. She’s down for any adventure, and will be just as excited (if not more) for every experience during your adventure elopement. It really felt like we had all been best friends for years. She made our elopement unique to us, and I couldn’t have asked for a better photographer (and now friend) to have shared our day with and to help us make it as memorable as she did.”
– Jennifer & Max, Eloped in Alaska

“From the moment we started with Maddie, we knew we made the right choice! Maddie is able to professionally match your energy where you are at and enhance the experience you’re looking for. I appreciated her curious, consistent, and inquisitive nature to try to picture what we envisioned for our day. She is very thorough in the “getting to know you” stages so that she can ensure what you see can come into fruition the way you want. I felt at ease knowing she was coming and the overall experience was better BECAUSE Maddie was there because she created space to enjoy our elopement adventure better than we could have imagined.”
– Marina & Taylor, Eloped in Washington
Read More on:


My Elopement in Peru
Yes, I eloped too
(No surprise there)
My partner is from Scotland. He’s been to 70 countries and I’ve been to 41, so I know what it feels like to have a ton of FOMO and analysis paralysis trying to pick the right elopement location. It was really hard for me too.
Luckily my partner reminded me of the advice I give all my couples:
Yes, this experience matters—and it will also be the first of a lifetime of adventures together.
So just go with your gut. Where would it be fun to have this next adventure?
Our hearts said “Peru,” so we bought flights the next day for just 6 weeks later. The day before we said our vows, an Indigenous guide led us up the most beautiful hike we’ve ever experienced, and I brought along the best photographer I knew to help us treasure every moment. On New Year’s Day, we said our vows on a foggy morning next to an Incan temple fortress near the Sacred Valley. The day represented how safe we feel with each other, how steadfast our love is, and the courage we want to live our lives with.
I still get chills when we look through our photo album every year on our anniversary, and it will continue to be one of the most magical memories of our life.
No matter what your vision is, this is how I want you to feel when you look back on your wedding.

Let’s make this a story you light up to tell.
Where in the world have you always wanted to go?
What’s an exciting experience you’ve always wanted to do?
What makes you two feel fully alive?

Eloping is the perfect reason to give yourself permission to do something out-of-this-world—something that makes you say:
“WOW. I can’t believe this is real life.”
Do something that will make it impossible for your wedding day not to feel special.
You deserve that
Together, we’ll create an experience that feels surreal, yet completely you at the same time.
So tell me…
what’s on your bucket list?
Let’s dream together.
Good news is
you don’t have to have it all figured out right now
Let me tell you how my process works
and we can take it from there
The Adventure Instead
Elopement Experience™
ELOPEMENT Photography + Experience Design + Planning Consulting

It might sound weird, but I honestly love planning.
It’s an incredibly fun part of the process and pivotal to creating the kind of photos I do.
I’ve refined my process over the course of planning over 300 one-of-a-kind elopements in 20 countries over 10 years, and it’s tailored to your unique needs and pace.
From curated location, activity, and lodging suggestions to timelines, permits, and logistics—I’ve got it all covered.
Here’s what’s in store for you when you work with me:



One-of-a-Kind Elopement Experience Design

Stunning & Secluded Location Ideas
All of the photos you’ve seen on my site are in locations the couple had no idea existed until they hired me. You’ll receive a curated menu of the very best options that perfectly match your vision.

Unique and Luxurious Lodging Recommendations
I’ll give you personalized recommendations for the most relaxing and photogenic places you can book to stay for your elopement—everything from treehouses, to glass domes, to 5-star resorts.

Personalized & Fun Activity Ideas
You’ll receive personalized ideas for unique activities and experiences (everything from helicopters to wine tasting)—plus, I’ll recommend pre-vetted operators and guides that can make it happen!

Customized, Experience-Focused Timeline
I’ll design your timeline so that you arrive at each place at the ideal time of day for the best lighting for photos, the fewest crowds, and the smoothest, most enjoyable experience. No rushing or stress.

Personalized Mood Board & Styling Suggestions
I’m full of unique ideas to help ensure your elopement is a true reflection of you—florals, dress/suit colors, and beyond—all curated to match your personality and location for a cohesive aesthetic.



Your Own Personal Elopement Planning Consultant

Direct Access & Full Support from Maddie Mae
You’ll have direct access to me personally throughout the entire planning process—have a question? Text or email me. You can also schedule a zoom or phone planning call whenever you need.

Unlimited Planning Consultations & Revisions
I’ll provide a clear blueprint for you based on expert advice—but the final decisions will always be entirely yours. I welcome all of your ideas, and I’ll keep refining your plan until it’s everything you desire.

Pre-vetted Local Vendor Recommendations
Need a florist, hair & makeup artist, private chef, or 4×4 driver in the area you’re eloping? I’ll help you find your elopement dream team (or you can keep it simple—additional vendors are not required).

Expert Advice on Permits, Marriage Licenses, Safety, and Legality
As one of the most well-traveled and experienced destination elopement photographers in the world, you can trust that you won’t run into pitfalls, logistical nightmares, or unforeseen problems. No matter what you choose, you’ll never feel like you’re in over your head. I will walk you through everything (even permits), consider all potential outcomes, and have the right backup plans in place. I’m also an expert at pivoting and changing plans last-minute should anything arise. You can relax and know you’re in expert hands.

Specific Gear Advice + Packing Checklists
With experience photographing elopements in diverse climates around the globe, I’ll consult with you on gear and create a customized list of exactly what you need to pack (and even how to pack it)!

“How to Adventure Instead” VIP Planning Guide
Refined over 300 elopements, my client-exclusive planning guide walks you through everything you need to know about planning your elopement and trip including travel advice, packing checklists, designers & brands to consider for your dress, suit, footwear, & accessories, and more.




Award-Winning Empathetic Elopement Photography
Guided + FUN Photography Experience
I’ll keep track of time so you don’t have to, and if weather rolls in, I’ll already have the perfect backup plan up my sleeve. Moment by moment, I instinctively adjust whatever’s needed to ensure you get the best photos and most enjoyable experience no matter what—you won’t have to stress about a single thing.
Empathetic, Introvert-Friendly Posing & Directing
I approach posing as an introvert with deep emotions. I focus on creating a comfortable space where you can be yourselves, guiding you with suggestions that feel natural, ensuring you have a ton of fun in every moment and that the photos genuinely reflect your connection.
Complementary Album Design + Convenient Print Ordering
To bring your elopement story full circle, you’ll receive a complimentary album design which you can choose to turn into a personal, heirloom-quality book to remind you of your wedding experience. You can conveniently order high quality prints from my professional lab directly through your online gallery.
What’s it like being photographed by me?

The way I see it,
my two most important jobs as your photographer are making you feel relaxed and confident as your best self and creating those jaw-dropping photos you’re after.
I’m a feeler and will be paying close attention to your emotions all day long—I’ll be your hype woman with positive, encouraging energy, making sure you know how amazing you look when you need it and helping you relax, slow down, and breathe. You won’t have to worry because I’ll be paying attention to the small details and adjusting anything that’s needed to make sure that you love how you look in your images.
My photography style is a mix of “fly-on-the-wall” and “kid in a candy store.” For parts of the day, you two will be completely immersed in the moment and focused on each other and forget I’m even there—and other times, I’ll see something like a cool beam of light on a hillside or an interesting rock or unusual tree stump and get an idea for an amazing photo. You’ll hear me get really excited and say, “woah—look at that! Do you think you could walk through that patch of light together? Or climb up on that cool rock?”
Bottom line, you won’t feel like you’re being posed all day,
but you’ll also never be wondering what to do.
And we’ll have a ton of fun along the way

Better yet,
I’ll let my couples tell you
See what it looks like
View full galleries
How It Works
How I design your elopement experience, plan your day, and create your images
Free consultation call

We’ll chat about you, your relationship, and all your ideas so I can help you find the best corner of the world to say your vows and design a personalized experience tailored to you.
The first step is to hop on your free consultation call with me so I can learn about you two and your ideas. I want to hear about how you two met, what’s drawing you to eloping, and what kind of experiences you two love so I can design a completely personalized elopement that will make you two feel on top of the world. Most couples don’t know where they want to elope or have a date yet—and that’s just fine. I take extensive notes on this call and suggest locations based on your preferences and my experience traveling to 40+ countries. By the end of the call, I’ll have helped you narrow down to the best corner of the world that has the right setting and backdrop for your “bucket list” elopement experience. Then we’ll chat about the best time of year for the weather, scenery, and your schedule and I’ll even draw up a quick example timeline of exactly what you can do for your elopement.
Dreaming & brainstorming questionnaire

Spend a date night or two dreaming and brainstorming up your day with my enjoyable planning questionnaire, which gives me a clear picture of anything and everything you desire.
If everything feels like the right fit, the second that you officially reserve your elopement date(s) with me, you’ll automatically receive my first planning questionnaire so we can get started right away planning your day. No two elopements I design are ever the same, so this questionnaire helps me fully get inside your heads so I can design an experience that is 100% unique to the two of you, that you’ll love every minute of. This questionnaire is super fun to fill out over a couple of date nights and helps you to brainstorm ideas and gives me key insight into your preferences. I’ll ask things like, “Do you like heights?” “Do you like heat vs. cold?” “Are you two into more fast-paced experiences and high adrenaline activities or do you like more relaxed, serene, and peaceful experiences (or a bit of both?)” Don’t worry if your ideas are vague at the beginning—turning concepts and feelings into concrete incredible plans is my specialty.
Resources + Assistance:
I research & plan for you

I’ll create a custom, one-of-a-kind elopement proposal (kind of like a design proposal you’d get from an architect hired to design your dream home)—complete with locations, lodging, and activity recommendations—so you can get the complete picture of what your elopement could feel like.
Once I get your questionnaire back, then I go into full on research and planner mode for about one month and I might send you a few follow-up questions during this period. What does this research process look like? Well, since I’ve planned over 250 elopements in 20+ countries, I already have a huge knowledge base including thousands of pages of elopement locations that I’ve already researched and scouted—so I start there. And then, for every single couple (no matter how familiar I am with an area) I do deeper, more customized research to find even more “hidden gems” locations that aren’t going to be overrun, overused, or overdone—and most importantly, that fit everything you’re looking for.
During this month I will be creating the first 2 big planning deliverables that you’ll receive: your location & experience idea list & your elopement design proposal.
Location & experience idea list—this is your curated “menu” of the best of the best location ideas and experiences in your chosen area that check all your boxes. It’s a tailored list of specific overlooks, trails, and viewpoints where you can say your vows, sightsee and explore, and amazing experiences you can enjoy together—everything from helicopter tours, private sailboats & catamarans, float planes, and hot springs… to picnicking, kayaking, and stargazing. The bespoke ideas on this list will be the most secluded, jaw-dropping, enjoyable places and experiences that perfectly match your vision.
Elopement design proposal—while I’m fully immersed in your dreams, desires, and vision when I create your location & experience idea list, there’s always a specific place or a combination of places or experiences that I just keep circling back to. There’s always an idea that feels “just right” for the two of you, that I just know you’ll enjoy the most. So I take that idea and run with it and expand it into a detailed “design proposal” for your elopement—just like you might get from an architect who you hired to build your dream house (except it’s your dream wedding). Your Elopement Design Proposal will have a my #1 recommended experiences and spots to explore and to say your vows —all built out with a logistically sound itinerary so you can get a complete picture for what this experience would feel like. The itinerary will be designed so you arrive at each location at the best time of day for the best light for photos and the fewest crowds. It also has specific companies you can hire for activities (like helicopters and private chefs), a visual mood board so you can start to think about your attire and details, and I also send the most fun and lodging options where you can stay nearby. Bottom line, this proposal answers the question “What exactly do you think we should do for your elopement, Maddie?”
Resources + Assistance:
I’ll refine the plan until it’s perfect

I’ll share my research and suggested plan with you. If you have any revisions or ideas you want to explore, we’ll go back and forth until your elopement feels 100% authentic and leaves you speechless with excitement.
Once your location idea list and elopement design proposal are ready, depending on your availability, I’ll present it to you at a Zoom meeting or I can email it over and you can review it on your own time. Typically, nine out of ten couples are so in love with the proposal that they request zero changes (yes, I’m that good!) but if anything isn’t quite right, all you have to do is let me know. Your location & experience idea list will also have the best alternative ideas and I’ll refine the proposal and your itinerary/timeline for you until it’s perfect. Don’t forget, all of the final decisions for your elopement will always be entirely yours. Your day is for you—not me. You’ll never be stepping on my toes, and you won’t hurt my feelings if you change your mind on anything. I’m here to be your elopement experience designer and personal planning consultant and I’ll make sure we get it right. The end result of this step is your finalized proposal with a detailed timeline for your elopement that’s logistically smooth and optimized for your best experience and photos.
Resources + Assistance
You pick your favorites and book them

After we’ve finalized your elopement design proposal and you have curated recommendations from me, all you have to do is book your flights, lodging, and favorite activities. I’ll be there to provide any logistical support you need.
Once your location idea list and elopement design proposal are ready, depending on your availability, I’ll present it to you at a Zoom meeting or I can email it over and you can review it on your own time. Typically, nine out of ten couples are so in love with the proposal that tYour refined elopement design proposal + timeline are a clear blueprint for you to follow, so you can easily book your lodging and book any activities, vendors, or tour operators you need (like a helicopter, private sailing charter, 4×4 driver, wine tasting, private chef, etc.). You can keep things simple or go as extravagant as you desire. Need more lodging suggestions? I’ll send more. Need recommendations for hair and makeup, florals, stylist, or an officiant? I know the best people. Want an opinion on wedding dresses? Just text me! I’m here to help with any ideas, opinions, logistical questions, or recommendations you need throughout the entire process. The only thing you two have to do is get your flights, lodging, rental car, and your selected activities or vendors booked and pick out what you want to wear. I will be traveling to the same area as you have experience traveling to over 40 countries and I’m always happy to recommend the best flight routes or the best way to get around in any country. I can also connect you with a travel agent who can take your travel planning off your plate entirely.
With my efficient and easy planning process, your entire elopement can be completely planned in 90 days or less from when you book if you’d like.
Resources + Assistance
Details, meaningful touches & photography prep

With the logistics booked, we’ll focus on the finishing touches and photos for your day—advice on outfits & accessories, impactful ceremony ideas, and learning more about your unique vibe as a couple.
With the planning out of the way, we can focus on the finishing touches that further personalize your experience and photos—what you want to wear, meaningful details & accessories (shoes, rings, vow books, accessories, etc.), planning your ceremony, and getting ready for the photography part of your day. I’ve witnessed hundreds of elopement ceremonies and am full of ideas that can make the experience memorable and personal to you—everything from handfasting, to having your best friend record an “officiant audio” for you. If you need help with the legal side, I’ll direct you to the right resources to get your license (and don’t forget, I’m an ordained officiant and can sign your license in most U.S. states). If we need permits for photos or your ceremony, I’ll figure out what you need and how to apply for it. To prepare for your photos, you’ll get one final questionnaire that helps me learn more about each of your personalities and how you two interact so I can adjust my posing and directing style to feel completely natural and organic for you. This is the final step to ensure your whole experience is completely customized to you and there’s absolutely nothing to stress about day-of.
Resources + Assistance
Your one-of-a-kind elopement experience

I’ll be there to guide you and coordinate everything. What I hear the most about from couples after their elopement is how seamless and stress-free their day feels with me by their side. You’ll get to just be fully present and enjoy every moment on your elopement day while I take care of the rest.
Since we’ve been communicating and planning your dream experience for months, once we meet up on your elopement day, it feels like meeting up with an old friend.
During your elopement: I’ll be there to guide you and coordinate everything. What I hear most from couples after their elopement is how seamless and stress-free their day feels with me by their side. That’s because once all of the vendors are booked, and the details are figured out, you get to be fully present on your elopement day. I take care of making sure we are at the right place at the right time. I take care of setting up that perfect moment so you can just soak it up. And I capture it unlike any other photographer. Because I am a feeler, I am in touch with how my couples are also feeling, which means my photos tell the story of how you feel throughout the day–soft and cozy in the morning or elated and giddy during the sunset. I’m constantly soaking in the experience with you–making sure to catch the beam of light on the hillside so that I can direct you to walk hand in hand right through it or to see how you two standing on a rock overlooking the ocean would make for the most powerful photo. But what truly sets me apart from other photographers is that during the whole process, you’ll never feel like you have to do something for a photo. At each point, I’ll be asking you if walking along the ridge feels comfortable to you, or if you want to help each other onto that rock. My goal is always to facilitate the kind of experience that is authentic and fun for you. It won’t feel posed. It will always feel natural. If you have any spontaneous ideas, things you feel like doing, you can always do that. There’s always flexibility and room for that. That’s a great thing about eloping rather than having a wedding.
After your elopement: After your elopement, I will deliver you a sneak peek of your images, about 10 to 15 highlights within a week after your day. Those will be full resolution in a gallery for you to download, print, share and save. Your full gallery will be delivered to you within 90 days in your online gallery and since you have unlimited personal use printing rights of your photos, you can download and print images with my professional lab and directly through your gallery or take them to any printer you love. Plus you can share your gallery with all your family and friends and anyone you choose to share your gallery with can do the same. Your gallery is online for an entire year in which time you can back up your photos on a hard drive or on the cloud. Plus after your images are delivered, you’ll also receive a complimentary album design that you can order with a beautiful engraved leather or linen cover. Since elopements are so intimate, an album can be such a wonderful way to tell the story of your day to friends or family who come over. Photos get so lost in a sea of screenshots on our phones and an album preserves the full narrative. But you don’t have to make any decisions about that right now. Now all you have to do is envision your perfect elopement day.
Experience + Photo Deliverables
A peek into the handcrafted planning resources you’ll receive

Elopement Design Proposal
My #1 recommended plan for your elopement—built out with exact locations in a logistically sound timeline, select experiences and activities, and the recommended companies to book (if needed), plus a visual mood board for styling suggestions, and the most fun and unique lodging options nearby

Location & Experience Idea List
A highly curated “menu” of additional options to supplement your elopement design proposal—giving you more stunning and secluded location ideas where you can say your vows, sightsee, and explore, plus additional curated activities and experiences that match your vision that you can include in your elopement.

Experience-Focused Elopement Timeline
Your logistically sound itinerary with maps, driving distances, sunrise/sunset times, weather, tides, and more…

“How to Adventure Instead” VIP Planning Guide
The ultimate guide for everything you could possibly need for your elopement—from dress and suit designers, accessories, gear, and more

Client Portal & Customized Packing Checklists
Everything you need for your elopement—from easy call scheduling to a collection of resources, all in one place. Easily access it on the go or at home—skip digging through your inbox.
It’s as easy as an all-inclusive package, but completely personalized to YOU.
Colorado Elopement Packages
2026-2027 Pricing
CUSTOM 2-DAY ELOPEMENT EXPERIENCE
CUSTOM 2-DAY ELOPEMENT EXPERIENCE
$14,800
FULL DAY ELOPEMENT EXPERIENCE
FULL DAY ELOPEMENT EXPERIENCE
$11,400
HALF DAY ELOPEMENT EXPERIENCE
HALF DAY ELOPEMENT EXPERIENCE
$9,000
MINI ELOPEMENT EXPERIENCE
MINI Elopement experience
$6,800
Not sure how much photo coverage you need?
Don’t stress about it—we’ll figure it out together on our first consultation
I feel like the luckiest person alive to do this work.
I get to spend the best day of your life with you. I get to help you plan it. I’ll never take it for granted or stop being obsessed with it.








