The sun-drenched Gold Coast, with its dazzling beaches, lush hinterlands, and vibrant city vibes, is the perfect backdrop for your special day. However, I know that planning your Gold Coast elopement might be a bit overwhelming, therefore, I put together this quick guide to help you with the process.
So let’s dive into planning your perfect Gold Coast elopement!
Choose the Perfect Date for Your Gold Coast Elopement
Australia’s Gold Coast is blessed with sunshine nearly all year round, so there’s no bad time to elope here. I would, however, avoid the end of January and most of February due to the high humidity and large chance of rainfall.
If you’d like to elope from June to August, you could also get lucky and see whales, as this is the peak time for whale watching on the Gold Coast!
Months from November to April are the lower tourism season in the Gold Coast, so you can expect to find better deals on accommodations and, of course, see fewer crowds!
Select Your Ideal Location
This region is a treasure trove of spectacular spots for your Gold Coast elopement. If you’re beach lovers, consider saying your vows on the white sandy beaches of Burleigh Heads or Coolangatta. For nature enthusiasts, Springbrook National Park or the Currumbin Valley offer breathtaking forest and waterfall backdrops.
And if you’d like to stay in the city, Surfers Paradise offers vibrant streets and gorgeous rooftop venues for your special day!
Here are more recommendations I’ve put together for your Gold Coast elopement!
Get Your Paperwork in Order
If you’re planning a destination elopement at the Gold Coast, the cool thing is that you don’t have to be an Australian citizen or permanent resident to get married there!
Before you get married, you’ll need to complete your Notice of Intended Marriage form at least one month before your elopement date and give it to an authorized marriage celebrant.
You’ll also need a registered celebrant to officiate the ceremony and two witnesses (your photographer can be one of the witnesses!)
For all the specific and most up-to-date requirements, I recommend you take a look at this website!
Find an Experienced Gold Coast Elopement Wedding Photographer
Your elopement deserves to be documented beautifully, capturing all those precious moments.
Hiring a photographer who specializes in elopements is key (I’m one of those photographers!! ;)). They’ll help you scout and suggest the best locations, guide you on lighting and your timeline, and make you feel comfortable and natural in front of the lens. Plus, they’ll create stunning photos that you’ll cherish forever!
I’d also definitely inquire with your dream elopement photographer as soon as you have a date set because most elopement photographers book out months in advance!
Book Any Vendors Ahead of Time
As I mentioned about inquiring ahead of time with your elopement photographer, this applies to any additional vendor you’d like to hire to help make your day even more special! Inquire with any hair and make-up artists, florists, or bakers as soon as you have an idea for a date!
Plan Your Post-Elopement Celebration
Just because you’re eloping doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate! Your day is all about you and your partner and whatever you want to do!
So whether it’s a romantic picnic at the beach, a small celebration with your friends and family, a dinner at a fancy restaurant, or a sunset cruise along the coastline, the Gold Coast has plenty of options for you to choose from!
Kelsey J Photography Intl | Destination Elopement Photographer
Are you ready for your unforgettable Gold Coast elopement? Feel the sand between your toes, the sun on your skin, and say ‘I do’ in the most enchanting way possible. Let’s do it together!
If you’re in the Gold Coast and would love to have me capture your Gold Coast elopement, you’re in luck! I’ll be in Australia at the end of October and for the whole of November, and I’d love to be your photographer! Just inquire with me here, and let’s get started!
