Tips For Planning a Savannah Elopement

April 21, 2020

Savannah holds such a special place in my heart. Not only is it one of my favorite cities to shoot in, but it is perfect for elopements! After shooting countless elopements in beautiful Historic Savannah, I wanted to share some of my tips for when you plan your Savannah Elopement!

When you book me as your elopement photographer, I want to be able to capture every moment to tell your complete story.  You can still get dressed up, have your hair and makeup professionally done, and get that rocking bouquet you have always dreamed of. Plus, you get plenty of time to frolic around together as a couple and get fun portraits!

Get complete Photography coverage

When booking your photography, I recommend at least 3 hours of photo coverage for your elopement. This is enough for getting ready, the ceremony, lots of portraits and ending with cocktails at a beautiful bar! (I share some of my favorite spots below) This will give you a complete story of the day, from start to finish!

Having an elopement still means that you should get incredible pictures to remember the perfect day. You can share the day with those that couldn’t be there and even get family members heirloom albums for them to keep. I offer beautiful heirloom albums or perfectly framed prints that you can give to your family as a keepsake.

 

Getting your marriage certificate is easy!

Georgia makes it quick and easy to get your marriage license. There is no wait time! If you are a resident of Georgia, you can apply in any country. If you are out of state, it can be obtained at the courthouse in Downtown Savannah. You will need to bring your driver’s license, passport or birth certificate. You can get your license the day before -or that morning, As long as the courthouse is open.

Tips For Planning a Savannah Elopement How to plan an Elopement in Savannah

Choose from a gorgeous Historic Square

One of the best parts of Savannah is the countless squares to choose from. Each one has it’s own personality, and some have monuments, others just trees and flowers. You don’t need a permit if you have a small group under 20 people. Some of my favorite squares:

Forsyth Park – The largest park in Savannah, there are 30 acres for you to choose from! You can choose from many spaces, with lots of oak trees and Spanish moss! I recommend doing the ceremony away from the fountain since there are a lot of people that crowd around the area. After you say I do, we can walk over and get pictures in front of the iconic fountain!

Pulaski Square – This one is great if you do not want a monument as your backdrop. The beautiful lawns, huge oak trees, and large azalea bushes make this a popular spot in the Spring!

Whitefield Square – One of the most popular squares for Weddings, couples love Whitefield Square’s white Victorian Gazebo that sits right in the center. It’s also one of the smaller squares, so perfect for just you and your fiancé.

Pro Tip: Avoid the squares along Bull Street. This is the central street of Historic Savannah, and while gorgeous, has the most foot traffic. This corridor of squares often has the most pedestrians and street traffic, so it will not be as private. We can definitely use them as a portrait spot, but I recommend avoiding them for your ceremony.

Elopement in Forsyth Park Elopement in Forsyth Park Elopement in Forsyth Park

Looking for something different than a square?

If a square isn’t for you, there are plenty of other gorgeous options for your Savannah elopement! Keep in mind some of these might have a photography fee, so make sure to check before booking.

Bonaventure Cemetery – I know, you might be thinking a cemetery wouldn’t fit for an elopement ceremony. But this destination is gorgeous! This public space has quite a few parks, and a garden, that makes beautiful backdrops. You can reach out to their Event Coordinator to take a look at pricing options!

Skidaway Island State ParkThis scenic park is located close to downtown Savannah, and features some beautiful salt marsh views.

Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens – Located south of Savannah, this venue has over 50 acres of gardens, with flowers blooming year-round. There is even a lush bamboo farm that makes for some incredible pictures!

Wormsloe – If you are looking for an iconic Southern backdrop, Wormsloe is for you! There are over 400 oak trees, lining the main road into the park. They offer elopement packages starting at just $250 to use the space.

Tybee Island – Maybe a beach is more your scene. You are in luck! Tybee Island is just a 30-minute drive from Downtown Savannah. You can get married anywhere on the beach, but there are a few quiet spots we can find!

Tips For Planning an elopement on Tybee Island Tips For Planning an elopement on Tybee Island Tybee Island

Pick a beautiful getting ready spot

When booking your Savannah Elopement photography, make sure to include some time of you both getting ready! While your elopement might not be a huge party, it doesn’t mean you have to forgo beautiful pictures. Some of the best moments are as you get ready, whether it is with your Fiance, or with your parents or a close friend. Savannah is filled with gorgeous boutique hotels and Bed and Breakfasts! Some of my favorite spots:

The Alida – If you are looking for something more modern with a flair of art deco, I love The Alida. No two rooms are alike, which makes it even more fun!

Forsyth Park InnRight on Forsyth Park, this is a great spot if you are picking Forsyth for your ceremony. This cute Bed and Breakfast has a private garden and beautiful rooms.

Mirabelle Suites – This is one of my favorite spots to shoot in! This vintage 1800’s era building is right across from St. Johns Cathedral – so it is steps away from the best squares! They have quite a few suites to choose from, all are stunning and luxurious. Plus, their bakery downstairs is delicious! You can pop down for some amazing coffee and breakfast before you get ready

Lucky Savannah Vacation Rentals – All of the rentals managed by this company are brightly lit and beautifully decorated, perfect for getting ready photos and a relaxed place to spend your time in Savannah

How to plan an Elopement in Savannah Tips For Planning a Savannah Elopement How to plan an Elopement in Savannah Tips For Planning a Savannah Elopement How to plan an Elopement in Savannah

Get some drinks to celebrate after!

Before you head to dinner, I recommend we get some pictures at one of the many beautiful bars or rooftops downtown! The Artillery is a stunning art deco bar, with delicious drinks and lot’s of gold touches. I also love the rooftop at The Alida and Perry Lane Hotel. Both will give us sweeping views of Historic Savannah, and make it an evening you won’t forget!

Tips For Planning a Savannah Elopement Tips For Planning a Savannah Elopement whitefield square elopement After elopement drinks at The Artillery After elopement drinks at The Artillery

Make it extra special

This day is all about the two of you – so why not splurge on some fun elements to make it extra special?! Hire a vintage car from Callan’s Classics or Lowcountry Valet! These make for really fun photos and a stylish ride around town afterwards. I also love it when couples get some cute vintage rentals from Savannah Vintage Rentals to make the ceremony spot extra pretty. They have the cutest arches, lounge chairs, and even decor!

Bright and colorful Savannah Elopement Tips For Planning a Savannah Elopement Tips For Planning a Savannah Elopement Bright and colorful Savannah Elopement Bright and colorful Savannah Elopement Bright and colorful Savannah Elopement

Savannah Elopement Photography by Izzy and Co.

No matter what you chose for your Savannah Elopement, it is sure to be stunning! When you book me as your elopement photographer, I will work closely with you to make your photography vision come to life! Our number one priority as your photographer is to provide you with an amazing and personal experience from start to finish. I will help you create a timeline, and make suggestions on the best spots for your pictures. We believe everyone deserves to feel fabulous. We will make you feel so comfortable in front of the camera, all you have to focus on is being in love!

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