The ultimate NH adventure elopement guide

If you’re dreaming of an intimate, adventure-filled wedding day in New Hampshire, I’d love to help make it happen! I’m Hattie, an elopement photographer based in the White Mountains, and I specialize in helping couples create and capture meaningful, stress-free wedding experiences in the great outdoors. Whether you’re picturing a mountaintop ceremony, a quiet lakeside vow exchange, or something totally unique to you, New Hampshire has endless incredible spots to say “I do.” In this guide, I’ll walk you through How to elope in New Hampshire—from the best locations to legal details—so you can start planning a day that feels just right for you.

How to Choose Your New Hampshire Elopement Location

There are SO many beautiful spots in New Hampshire. Whether you’re drawn to rolling hills, stunning peaks, birch forests, pine groves, rocky rivers, or dramatic cliffs, this state has it all.

Some of my favorite elopement locations in NH are:

• White Mountain National Forest – Endless trails, breathtaking views, and secluded spots for a private ceremony.
• Crawford Notch – Waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and dramatic cliffs make this an unforgettable spot.
• Kancamagus Highway – A scenic drive packed with stunning stops, from riverbanks to mountain views.
• Pinkham Notch – A gateway to Mount Washington with incredible hikes and hidden forest clearings.
• Lake Winnipesaukee Area – If you love the idea of a lakeside elopement, this region offers serene beauty and waterfront charm.
• Franconia Notch – Home to epic mountain vistas and easy-to-access spots like Artist’s Bluff.

Fun fact: In New England, a mountain pass is called a “Notch.” Now you’re in on the local lingo!

Important Tip: When choosing your location, think about the season! For example, Mount Washington in winter might sound magical, but the extreme conditions can make it challenging (or even impossible) to access.

Need help finding the perfect New Hampshire elopement location? Reach out here!

Deciding Who You Want at Your New Hampshire Elopement

Just the Two of You

If you picture your wedding day with just you, your partner, and maybe your four-legged best friend, you’re in luck—New Hampshire makes this easy! You don’t need any witnesses, so your only requirement is an officiant (which can even be your photographer—more on that below!).

Including Loved Ones

If you can’t imagine saying “I do” without your closest family and friends, you can absolutely include them in your New Hampshire elopement. Whether it’s a handful of guests or a small gathering, there are plenty of locations that accommodate intimate celebrations.

The Best of Both Worlds

Want time alone with your partner but also want to celebrate with family? Here are some creative ways to balance both:

• Exchange private vows at sunrise or sunset on a mountaintop, then celebrate with loved ones later.
• Plan a split-day elopement—spend half the day adventuring together and the other half with family.
• Make it a two-day experience—one day for just the two of you and another with guests.
• Keep your day private but have your family write letters for you to read on your elopement day.

Legal Requirements to Elope in New Hampshire

Do You Need Witnesses in New Hampshire?

Nope! New Hampshire does NOT require witnesses, which makes it an ideal place for a truly private elopement.

Who Can Officiate a Wedding in New Hampshire?

Great news—I can legally officiate your wedding! If you’re planning a two-person elopement, I can sign your marriage license, making your day even more seamless.

Other people who can officiate in New Hampshire include:

• Ordained ministers or religious leaders
• Judges
• Justices of the Peace
• A friend or family member who becomes a temporary officiant (New Hampshire allows one-day officiant licenses!)

How to Get a Marriage License in New Hampshire

1. Apply in person at any New Hampshire town clerk’s office (both of you must be present).
2. Bring identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.
3. Pay the license fee (currently around $50).
4. Use it within 90 days—there’s no waiting period!

How to Start Planning Your New Hampshire Elopement

Now you know how to elope in New Hampshire… It’s time to get planning! Planning your New Hampshire elopement doesn’t have to be complicated! Here’s a simplified step-by-step guide:

1. Dream up your perfect day. Picture your ideal setting—mountain summit, forest clearing, riverbank?
2. Consider hiring a photographer who also helps with planning (like me!). I can help with location scouting, timeline creation, and more.
3. Pick your elopement location. Think about accessibility, scenery, and seasonality.
4. Get your marriage license. Visit a town clerk’s office and follow the simple steps above.
5. Say “I do” in one of the many breathtaking places in New Hampshire!

Leave No Trace: Protecting New Hampshire’s Natural Beauty

New Hampshire is filled with stunning landscapes, and it’s up to all of us to protect them! Here’s how you can follow Leave No Trace (LNT) principles on your elopement day:

1. Plan ahead & prepare – Research your location, check permit requirements, and be ready for weather changes.
2. Travel & camp on durable surfaces – Stick to designated trails and avoid damaging fragile vegetation.
3. Dispose of waste properly – Pack out everything you bring in, including food scraps and tissues.
4. Leave what you find – Preserve the beauty of the area by not picking flowers or disturbing natural features.
5. Minimize campfire impact – If you celebrate with a fire, use existing fire rings and fully extinguish it before leaving.
6. Respect wildlife – Observe from a distance and never feed animals.
7. Be considerate of others – Keep noise levels down and respect fellow hikers and visitors.

By following these simple guidelines, you’ll help ensure that these breathtaking locations stay pristine for future couples and adventurers.

Your Adventure Begins Here

Eloping in New Hampshire gives you the freedom to create a wedding day that feels authentic, adventurous, and deeply personal. Whether it’s just the two of you on a mountaintop or a cozy lakeside ceremony with loved ones, your day should be exactly what you want it to be.

If you’re ready to start planning, I’d love to help! Reach out, and let’s bring your dream elopement to life.