New England Elopement: Breaking down what & where
Thinking about eloping, but not sure if the mountains out West or the forests back East are more your vibe? You’re not alone. A lot of my couples consider Colorado or Utah before realizing New England might actually be the dream.
If you need a full New Hampshire elopement guide, you can read that one here!
Want to sneak in on my travel schedule? Make sure to reach out to see where I am currently traveling!
East vs. West: What’s the Vibe?
When couples start dreaming up their elopement day, they’re usually picturing a feeling more than a pin on a map. Do you want it to feel cozy? Expansive? Moody? Wild?
Both New England and the Western U.S. offer epic landscapes—but the vibe, pace, and accessibility are totally different. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you figure out which one fits your energy best:
Landscape & Scenery
- West: big dramatic peaks, red rock, wide open desert views
- East: cozy forests, fall foliage, misty mountaintops, lakes, waterfalls
Weather & Seasons
- West: more dry, more sun—but risk of wildfire, extreme heat
- East: four real seasons, especially stunning in fall + early winter
Access & Crowds
- West: famous trails = lots of traffic
- East: more hidden-gem spots, weekday elopements = peak privacy
Cost
- West: travel often more expensive (flights, lodging, permits)
- East: less travel time if you’re already based nearby, more elopements close to home
Why New England Might Be Exactly Right for You
If you’ve been eyeing those “wild west” elopements on Instagram but something isn’t quite clicking… it might be because your heart’s pulling you somewhere else.
New England isn’t always the first place people think of for an adventure elopement—but for the right couple, it’s magic.
It might be the right fit if:
- You’re craving privacy, not pressure—somewhere you can actually exhale, not just pose.
- You love the feeling of an enchanted forest, misty mountains, or fall leaves crunching under boots.
- You want your wedding to feel cozy, calm, and deeply intentional—not just styled for Pinterest.
- You’re not dying to hike 6 miles for the perfect shot (but still want a backdrop that stuns).
- You want to be close enough for family to join if you invite them—but still carve out a day that feels like an escape.
New England lets you slow down, soak it in, and keep things beautiful and simple. And if that sounds like your kind of elopement? I’m your kind of photographer.
Best Places to Elope in New England
If you’re sold on the East Coast vibe but not sure where to land, you’ve got options—seriously good ones.
From misty mountains to rocky coastlines, here are just a few New England gems that deserve a spot on your elopement mood board:
- New Hampshire – Forests, waterfalls, epic ridgelines, and the best fall colors around. (If you’re thinking NH might be it, start with my full elopement guide here.)
- Vermont – Quiet mountain towns, maple trees, covered bridges, and peaceful trails. It’s like stepping into a storybook. Perfect for couples who want something cozy and private.
- Maine – Bold coastal cliffs, pine trees, and Acadia National Park if you’re feeling dramatic in the best way. Ideal if you want both ocean and forest in one day.
- Massachusetts – Cape Cod elopements, Berkshires mountain escapes, and even some stunning gardens + estate-style venues. Great for blending a bit of tradition with the nontraditional.
- Rhode Island – Tiny state, big personality. Think: artsy city corners, sailboat harbors, and soft ocean views. A hidden gem if you want something unique but accessible.
- Connecticut – Lush parks, charming small towns, and surprisingly good foliage. A low-key pick for East Coast locals who don’t want to travel far.
Each state has its own flavor, and honestly? You can’t go wrong. Want help figuring out which one fits your elopement vision? That’s literally what I’m here for.
New England Elopement: Want to Know Where to Start?
Good thing you found me, I’m an elopement expert and New England Elopements are pretty fun because majority of people out there still choose the traditional path — you’re brave though and going to do it your own way.
If you’re torn between the West and New England, don’t worry—I help my couples map out the perfect location based on your dream day. Want to talk through it? Reach out here and let’s find your spot.
Jamie Tobin Photography Elopement Legend Award Winner // New England Elopement // New Hampshire Elopements // How to Elope in the United States
