Your Las Vegas elopement should be legendary just like you! You may not know this but you’re not just limited to chapels and the Strip. Vegas is home to some of the most unique landscapes and diverse experiences. We’ll show you how to enjoy the full Las Vegas elopement experience.
How to Elope in Las Vegas
- Find the perfect location for your elopement. Las Vegas isn’t just the Strip and Fremont, there are views for days, and believe it or not, even a river. There’s a few suggestions here.
- Hire an elopement team that you can vibe with. Send us an inquiry to find out if we vibe.
- Book your stay, transportation, vendors, and activities.
- Apply for your marriage license.
- Apply for any pertinent permitting for your location of choice.
- Put together a timeline that maximizes quality time and fun.
- Show up and show out to your elopement. Embrace and enjoy every moment.
Step 1: Find The Perfect Location and Time of Year for Your Las Vegas Elopement
We specialize in unique outdoor locations, and guess what? That doesn’t just mean the great outdoors as you know it. That means any public spot on the Las Vegas Strip and even Fremont Street and the Art District. Awesome, right? So here’s our quick list of outdoor locations. Think about what you’d like to see while you share your vows. If you need our help, our questionnaires have been helping couples find their perfect ceremony locations for 13 years.
Also see 4 Free Las Vegas Ceremony Locations
Mt. Charleston
An hour from the Strip is Mt. Charleston, a beautiful forest location that is always at least 20 degrees cooler than the desert valley. The beautiful juxtaposition between the trees and the view of the desert makes it a perfect location for your Las Vegas elopement ceremony and even your celebration.
Bellagio Fountains
This is one of Las Vegas’ big tourist attractions, so if you’re there to get married, you’ll likely have your very own crowd, especially if you’re getting married during a show. Your best bet is middle of the week around sunset for a less crowded option.
Las Vegas Art District
These streets are full of colorful murals and public art that are perfect for the non-traditional couple. Close enough to so many great eats and within reach of plenty of hotels and casinos, these spots can almost guarantee no crowds, not like the Strip, at least.
Best Time to Get Married in Las Vegas
Las Vegas hosts tourists all year long, but the best time of year to visit and have an outdoor adventurous elopement is between October to April. Here’s the breakdown
December – February : Coldest months. At night it can get as low as 35 degrees Fahrenheit, in the daytime it can get up to 50s/60s. It’s snowing and coldest in the mountains. And this is when the clouds are constantly most dramatic, which is my favorite time to shoot.
March – May : Mildest months. At night it hovers around 40/50 degrees and goes up to 70s in the daytime. It’s the perfect time to be outdoors.
June – September : Hottest months. In the daytime it can get up to 120s and at night it doesn’t get all that much better. It’s a dry heat thankfully, which means you can deal with it if you’re standing in the shade. There isn’t much of that outdoors, however. These are not ideal months for outdoor elopements. Monsoon season strikes during the summer with heavy but quickly passing rainfall and beautiful lightning storms. They’re definitely a sight to see but only great for the most adventurous of eloping couples. The mountains are definitely the best places to get married outdoors in the Summer. There you’ll experience cooler, milder weather during these months.
October – November : Mildest months. Much like March – May at night time it can hover around 40/50 degrees and goes up to 70s in the daytime. During these months you’ll find a lot of people outdoors taking advantage of the perfect weather. November, however, Las Vegas hosts a Formula 1 race every year until 2032, which means stay prices will be driven upward along with traffic.
Major Events in Las Vegas 2024
These events might effect flight, rental, stay prices, and traffic on the dates listed as well as around these dates.
CES Las Vegas January 9-12, 2024
World of Concrete January 23-25, 2024
Chinese New Year February 10, 2024
Super Bowl LVIII February 11, 2024
Valentine’s Day February 14, 2024
MAGIC Las Vegas February 13-15, 2024
Pennzoil 400 NASCAR Weekend March 1-3, 2024
St. Patrick’s Day March 17, 2024
NAB Show April 14-17, 2024
Memorial Day Weekend May 27, 2024
4th of July July 4, 2024
Mexican Independence Day September 16, 2024
South Point 400 NASCAR Weekend October 18-20, 2024
Halloween October 31, 2024
SEMA Las Vegas November 5-8, 2024
Grand Prix Formula 1 Race Weekend November 21-23, 2024 Setup for this will last 6 months before the race and 8 weeks after the race.
National Finals Rodeo December 5-14, 2024
New Year’s Eve December 31, 2024
Step 2: Hire a Team You Can Vibe With
We are The Drinis – Las Vegas elopement specialists and locals. I’m, Mari, an adventure elopement photographer and planner, and that’s my dashing husband, Pop, logistical specialist and officiant extraordinaire.
The way we run elopements are the way we live life – without regard for anyone else’s expectations or opinions. We’re essentialists who only say yes to the most important things and say no to everything else. Our love is built upon disregard for what the world has to say about us or our marriage – we’re unconventional, free thinkers. This is the energy we give our couples’ elopements. They only get what they want and get nothing they don’t.
Our belief is that when couples begin their lives with only their needs and desires at the forefront of their marriage, they’ll carry this energy into their marriage making decisions as bosses of their lives instead of feeling obligated by expectations outside of their marriage.
Step 3: Get All The Information You’ll Need To Know To Elope in Las Vegas!
Getting to Las Vegas
By plane
From any major airport from the East Coast you can expect flights from $50 and upwards. Average rates can be anywhere between $150-$300 depending on when you’re buying tickets. International tickets can cost anywhere from $500 and up, depending on where you’re flying from. Use Google Flights for a better idea of what flights look like from your location.
Car Rentals
There are several ways to get into Las Vegas but car is the most convenient, because you’ll be able to use it all throughout your stay. Although the Strip seems small, it’s huge and walking it is a whole pain in the ass, even if it’s from hotel to hotel. Our major freeways are the 15, 215, and 95. So conveniently, anyone coming from parts of California, Utah, and Arizona can take one freeway to get here.
By Car
From any major airport from the East Coast you can expect flights from $50 and upwards. Average rates can be anywhere between $150-$300 depending on when you’re buying tickets. International tickets can cost anywhere from $500 and up, depending on where you’re flying from. Use Google Flights for a better idea of what flights look like from your location.
Accommodations
Air BnB / VRBO
Air BnBs and VRBOs are plentiful all over town, including on the Strip and in Fremont. Some Air BnBs are even part of well known Strip properties which means those amenities are available to you as renters, as well.
The Strip
The Strip is famous for all of its awesome properties. Each property is like its own little city that contains plenty of shopping, restaurants, gambling, and experiences that one person couldn’t possibly complete even given a whole weekend. Here’s a list of our favorite,
- The Venetian – Each room is a suite that has its own sunken living room and the property itself is stunning for photos.
- The Bellagio – Where the famous Bellagio Fountains reside, if you can get a room with a view of the Strip/Fountains, you’ll be able to watch the shows all night long.
- MGM Grand – More South on The Strip, it’s a beautiful property with great rooms and a lazy river.
Downtown Fremont
Old Strip, now called Downtown Fremont is home to all of the original Las Vegas Strip hotels. Found North of The Strip, it has local vibes and it’s way cheaper than The Strip. The properties are also a lot smaller but still have plenty to do within them. Here’s a few of our favorites,
- Oasis at Gold Spike – Connected to the famous Gold Spike. We love the 50s vibe of the whole property.
- Circa – Fremont’s newest adults only property has amazing amenities and lots of cool things to do like Stadium Swim and Legacy Club.
- Downtown Grand – The rooms are gorgeous and the hotel touts a rooftop swimming pool area with full bar and seating and cornhole.
Transportation
Just Us Transportation
Uber/Lyft
Uber and Lyft are great options for moving about the city. With regular events happening in Las Vegas, you may have to wait a bit at certain times but patience is key, and of course, it’s usually better than walking. Beware of surge pricing. To avoid it, grab a bite or do some gambling while you wait for prices to lower.
Turo.com
We always support locals by using Turo and lots of cars can be brought straight to you at the airport but there is now an airport fee as of 2023. Sometimes the best deals come from the regular car rental companies. Although, rental companies have a 25 and older rule for bookings and take a deposit of $200 or more depending on the company. If you’re coming from the airport to rent a car there is a shuttle that will bring you to the remote car rental site. Don’t forget to get the insurance whether you’re going the Turo or the regular rental company route. And if you’re considering this option, don’t forget to consider casino parking/valet fees.
Harley Davidson Rentals
If you have your M1 endorsement and can ride a motorcycle, you can rent one for you and your partner at the Harely Davidson Store. Imagine your first ride as a married couple, where would you go?
Slingshot Rentals
If you don’t have an M1 endorsement but you’d like to feel the air running through your hair, you can rent this cool 3 wheeler called a slingshot. Take it through Valley of Fire or Red Rock Scenic Loop and see the sights!
Lamborghini Rentals
So stay with me, you want to go all out, right? So do the damn thing in a Lamborghini, because you can be anybody in Las Vegas.
Boat or Kayak Rentals
So, maybe you have water on your mind. Yah, we have some of that in Las Vegas too. About 30 minutes from the Strip you’ll find Lake Mead and the Colorado River where you can rent pontoon, speed, and houseboats or even kayaks and standup paddleboards. You can get married on your own personal island in the middle of the desert, or hit a deserted shore and say your vows where no one else can hear you. Either way, I think that’s dope.
Microwedding Transportation
So you’re having more than yourselves at your wedding. You still have awesome options to move in style.
Limo Service
I mean, who wants to drive when you could have a driver in the town that allows you to walk the Strip with open containers? Rent a limo for your small party and enjoy a night of partying it up with your guests.
Party Bus Rental
If you have a bigger party, hire a party bus, bring the drinks and they’ll bring the party. Ask for a nightclub tour or even a pool party tour and you’re sure to have a memorable wedding day.
Good Eats For Your Las Vegas Elopement
One thing to remember about restaurants, is you’ll want to call to check if your restaurant accepts reservations. And if you’re not feeling a restaurant, personal chefs and catering isn’t always as expensive as it seems. Check out a few of our favorites.
Ms. Mandy Made It
Amanda cooks up seafood boils and personal catering dishes for pickup. It’s perfect for your hotel or Air BnB reception for your microwedding guests. Her food is so good, we order at least once a week.
Chinatown Las Vegas
Imagine having Korean BBQ, Mochi Donuts, Boba, Dim Sum, and shaved ice on your wedding day. I love a good food tour and if you do too, Chinatown might be your spot, you’ll find everything you need to fulfill all of your cravings.
Bin18
If you’re looking for bottomless mimosas, this is a good place to have your brunch reception. In the middle of the Arts District, you’ll be surrounded with plenty of things to do when you’re done getting saucy.
“Reception” Ideas for Your Las Vegas Elopement
“Reception” is in quotes because a wedding reception is usually a bunch of people eating, drinking, and dancing, but Las Vegas elopements offer so much more flexibility. Here, dinner, drinking, and dancing is the norm, but your elopement deserves so much more.
Camping & Hiking
If you’re the outdoorsy type, there’s plenty of beautiful desert locations to camp and hike for your elopement. You can hire a personal chef to prepare a meal at your campsite, or you can bring your favorite foods on a backpacking trip in the backcountry of Lake Mead for a unique celebration. We follow Leave No Trace Principles for all things outdoors and encourage our clients to do the same. In Vegas, there is something for every type of elopement.
Moapa Paiute Travel Plaza
So you’ll run into this cool find if you’re heading out to the Valley of Fire. Imagine your elopement on waves of red, pink, and white rock, and hikes with incredible alien views. Now, if you’re a pyrotechnic junky, you can buy fireworks (typically illegal in Las Vegas and most parts of the US) at this location and set them off on their giant launchpad. Pull up a few lounge chairs and set off your very own fireworks show to celebrate your union. Now it’s a real party!
Gold Spike
This is definitely a local secret, and everyone will probably hate me for sharing, but you know what? It’s an awesome location that deserves recognition. It’s a giant adult playground with giant beer pong, giant jenga, octopong, a DJ, arcade games in it’s “Living Room,” and a few bars. This is the perfect place to drink, dance, and play for you and your more competitive guests.
High Roller Open Bar Pod
The High Roller soars at 550 feet over the Las Vegas Strip. To go around the whole thing it takes 30 minutes, which is plenty of time for an open bar. You and your guests can observe the views from the sky and see all over the Strip and be litty by the time they touch ground. It’s definitely quite the experience. For the best experience, plan a trip at sunset, because the view is crazy!
How Much You Can Expect To Spend On Your Elopement?
There is something in everyone’s budget here in Las Vegas. In general, you’ll find the bougier part of town is The Strip where drinks are $25 a piece and bottle service is upwards of $1500 (yes, that’s for 1 bottle for a table of 6, and you still have to tip). Here, chapels and even outdoor locations attached to big hotels and casinos will cost you a pretty penny for a 15 minute ceremony and 15 minutes of photography and a handful of photo prints. You can find packages like these from $299 and up. Always read the fine print.
Here’s how we do Las Vegas elopements!
Starting at $1000
Planning & Guidance
– Full Las Vegas elopement planning. Personalized Las Vegas guide. Questionnaires, vendor recommendations, permitting, and client portal access. Unlimited planning and access to your elopement team. We’ll be your defacto tour guides for all things Las Vegas.
Ceremony Services
– Officiant services by Pop Andrini.
– Marriage license guidance.
– Custom ceremony.
— Travel expenses included.
– Explore locations like Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire, Lake Mead. Tap here for more information on elopement locations.
Photography
– From 1-16 hours of professional photography coverage by Mari Andrini.
– Drone footage (location and weather permitting).
– Sneak peeks within 48 hours.
– All Light Preserves on a secure online gallery.
From $1000-$9000
Your Las Vegas elopement experience matters. There’s no right way to do it, just your way. We’ll help pinpoint all of the most important elements to include in your elopement.
Step 4: Apply For Your Marriage Certificate
Here’s the process!
- Tap here to fill out the application. Payment will be collected when you go to pick up your marriage license. Don’t worry, another window will open and you can just follow the directions from this tab or just follow their directions. You will not receive any confirmation by email or mail after your submission.
- Both of you will go to the Las Vegas Marriage License Bureau with a form of ID and divorce decree if it applies before your ceremony, located at
201 E Clark Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89101 - Bring the paperwork provided to your ceremony location. Your officiant will check your IDs, complete your unofficial keepsake and official licenses, give you your unofficial license keepsake license and bring your official license to the Las Vegas Marriage License Bureau. Your officiant has 10 days from your ceremony to turn it in.
- You should receive an e-mail from the Las Vegas Marriage Bureau letting you know when you can purchase your marriage certificate. If you don’t receive this email or miss it, tap here to order it 10 days after your ceremony.
The cool thing about the Las Vegas Marriage Bureau is that it’s open late and usually the lines aren’t super crazy. You can also call to see how long the wait is, but every time we’ve gone it hasn’t been more than a 10-15 minute wait.
Step 5: Apply For Location Permits
Some locations require a permits to hold your elopement. Lucky for you, we know all of the locations that don’t. But if you’re pining after a location that does require permitting, we’ll help you with all the formalities.
Step 6: Put Together a Timeline
Your timeline is the schedule of events for the day. Consider a few things when you’re putting it together.
- Travel time. Map out your travel before your elopement and include the times it takes to get from place to place.
- Add buffers for traffic, movement for everyone involved, time fallacy buffers, etc.
- Take your time. No need to move from place to place quickly, always remember that time flies when you’re having fun.
Step 7: Show Up and Show Out!
You’ve put together a dope ass day that’s about to go down in history. Don’t forget to feed yourselves, hydrate, and show up with good vibes. If you’re deciding to invite people, nobody’s going to get married without you. Take your time, don’t rush yourselves. This is why you’re eloping, so you can savor every second.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a Las Vegas elopement legal?
A: It can be.
If you go through the process of applying for your marriage certificate, pick it up, and have an officiant marry you and deliver you paperwork to the Las Vegas Marriage Bureau, then yes, your union is legal. You can, however, have a symbolic ceremony that doesn’t require any paperwork to be filed, which would be strictly symbolic and not legal at all.
Q: Do we have to hike?
A: Absolutely not.
There are plenty of places here in Las Vegas to have an adventurous elopement that don’t require you to hike. In fact, you can 4×4, ATV, take a helicopter, horseback ride, just drive up to many places, etc. to get to a place you’d like to elope.
Q: Is there a waiting period to get married in Las Vegas?
A: Nope.
You can apply for your marriage certificate and immediately go pick it up. The marriage bureau’s hours are from 8 AM – 12 AM everyday.
Q: Can I have my family or friend officiate?
A: Yup!
Check out all of the information here to have your family or friend officiate for your elopement.
Q: What can we do after our ceremony to celebrate?
A: So much!
There is so much to do both on and off the Strip. You can find lots of things to do after your ceremony here.
Q: How long should we book a photographer for?
A: It really depends on your needs!
If you’re here, you’re probably planning on having an epic time in Las Vegas to celebrate your elopement, so if you’d like to have your entire elopement documented, that won’t just mean the ceremony. You can potentially have all of the fun parts photographed which means you can choose something for up to 16 hours like we offer to cover everything you’re doing throughout the time you’re in Las Vegas. That 16 hour collection can be split up to 3 days.
Q: Are there vendors that will come to us?
A: Absolutely!
It might be easier to have vendors like make-up artists and hair stylists who come to you or even meet you at your ceremony location. There are so many vendors who run mobile businesses here in Vegas that you can have food and snacks delivered, a mobile steamer, a mobile barber, a mobile make-up artist, a mobile tattoo artist. Honestly, the list is limitless.
