Why Book a Full Day Elopement? Here’s Why 8 Hours is Totally Worth It
If you’re considering eloping and wondering how much time you really need, you might be asking yourself:
“Do we really need 8 hours of coverage if we’re not having a traditional wedding?”
And hey, I get it! When you think of an elopement, you might picture a quick ceremony at a beautiful overlook, a few portraits, and that’s it. But the truth is, your elopement is still your wedding DAY. And it deserves to be treated like the full, intentional, once-in-a-lifetime celebration that it is.
As a DC, Virginia, and Maryland elopement photographer, I’ve documented dozens of elopements, from short and sweet ceremonies to full-day experiences. After all of that, I can say with full confidence: an 8-hour elopement isn’t just “extra”… it’s what most couples actually need to feel fully present and enjoy the day without stress.
And if you’re still on the edge, here’s why you should consider booking a full day elopement!
So What Can You Actually Do in an 8-Hour, Full Day Elopement?
Just imagine…You’re waking up slow, sipping coffee as the sunrise filters gently through your window. Maybe you’re getting ready together, laughing at inside jokes and sharing quiet, tender moments as you put finishing touches on your vows (not sure about this decision? Here’s a handy guide to deciding between a first look or getting ready together!).
Maybe you help zip each other into your outfits, or maybe you’re getting ready in separate rooms for that emotional first look outside under the trees. There’s time to breathe, to laugh, to pause.
Later, we head to your ceremony spot. You’ve chosen somewhere meaningful, maybe a quiet overlook in Shenandoah or a tucked-away garden in DC. And then the day unfolds however you want.
So, in a nutshell, with a full day elopement, you can:
- Get ready leisurely, soaking in every emotion
- Share a meaningful first look
- Exchange personalized vows in a heartfelt ceremony
- Adventure through multiple incredible locations (hello, mountain views and exploring the iconic DC monuments and art museums)
- Take a private boat excursion, just the two of you
- Include meaningful moments with family and friends without feeling rushed (check out these unique ways to involve your loved ones!)
- Enjoy sunset golden-hour portraits.
- Have a celebratory meal, a champagne toast, or even a cake-cutting
- Take quiet moments to pause, have a snack, and just connect with each other.
You’re not just booking a photo shoot—you’re planning an experience that deserves to be documented from beginning to end. So, while every elopement day looks different for every couple, these types of activities allow you to fully customize your day to your vision.
But Isn’t an 8-Hour Elopement Just for Adventurous Hikers?
Nope! Whether you’re eloping in Shenandoah National Park, strolling through the Smithsonian gardens in DC, or having an intimate ceremony in your own backyard, 8 hours simply gives you room to enjoy it all.
Seriously, it’s the perfect choice for ALL couples who envision:
- A slow, relaxed pace without rushing from one moment to the next
- Spending meaningful time with each other and/or loved ones
- A blend of adventure (whatever that looks like to you), beauty, and heartfelt connection
Whether you’re introverted, camera-shy, or planning with family members and kids in mind, a full-day elopement gives you breathing room to make the day feel like you.
Real Talk: What Happens When You Only Book 4 Hours?
In the early years of my career, I photographed 2 and 4-hour elopements. While I still captured beautiful moments, the day often felt like a blur for my couples.
Seriously, four hours might sound like enough… until you’re navigating:
- Travel time between locations (traffic, construction, walking, or hiking time)
- Guests who run late (or need help wrangling)
- A toddler who needs a nap
- Hair and makeup running behind
- A ceremony that lasts longer than expected
- That dreamy sunset slipping away before you get to enjoy it
The day starts feeling rushed, logistics get tight, and you lose out on the magic of just being present. And I know, it’s not bad. But your day could have been so much more.
So, Is a Full Day Elopement Worth It?
Heck yes, it is. This is your wedding day, and not just a quick photoshoot, after all!
When you give yourself the space and time to be fully present, connect with each other, explore meaningful locations, and celebrate with intention, your photos tell the full story, not just what it looked like, but what it felt like.
But Don’t Just Take It From Me…
Still wondering if 8 hours is too much for an elopement day? Here’s what some of my couples have said after experiencing a full-day elopement:
“We weren’t exactly sure how we wanted the day to go, all we knew was that we wanted to make a whole day out of exploring the city and taking beautiful photos. Juliana helped us create the perfect timeline, find amazing locations, and made everything feel seamless. On the day itself, it didn’t feel like we had a ‘photographer’—it felt like a friend celebrating with us. She literally helped me get dressed, and the entire day was nothing short of amazing.”
— Vonya
“Juliana helped us craft a day that felt meaningful to us. From our first texts to the moment we opened our final gallery, she made us feel grounded, supported, and genuinely cared for. She didn’t just photograph our day—she helped us build it from the ground up.”
— Jessica E.
“I’m not someone who loves being in front of the camera. I was tempted to have a quick court wedding and be done with it. But what I really wanted was an experience—to go on an adventure with my best friend and just happen to be in a white dress. Juliana made that dream real. She captured such pure, honest moments that brought tears to my eyes. I felt seen, supported, and like I made a true friend in the process.”
— Bailey
“We had a tight planning timeline, and Juliana still made everything happen without ever making it feel rushed. She helped us feel comfortable, guided us the whole way, and gave us photos we’re completely in love with. She made the day flow so naturally.”
— Jessica P.
These couples didn’t just book a photographer, they gave themselves permission to live their wedding day fully. And because of that, they walked away with so much more than photos. They got memories, presence, and a story they’ll get to relive for years to come.
Ready to Start Planning Your Full Day Elopement?
As your elopement photographer and planning partner serving DC, Virginia, and Maryland, I’m here every step of the way. I’ll help you choose the perfect spot, build a timeline that fits your vision, and craft a day that feels 100% you.
Because you deserve it. Your wedding deserves it.
I specialize in helping couples create unforgettable full-day experiences in:
- Washington, DC
- Virginia and Shenandoah National Park
- Maryland
You can learn more about my packages here! And if you have any questions or you’re ready to get started, please contact me and let’s plan your unforgettable, full day elopement together!
And if you want to see full day elopement examples & inspiration, here are a few to get you started:
