Elopement is the most intimate avenue to matrimony. Two are joined in the presence of just one more – an officiant – to begin a life of dedication to one another. It’s exclusive, often secret … and deliciously romantic.
Shenandoah Valley Elopement Destinations
Shadow Mountain Escape in Luray, VA is a secluded couples getaway with timberframe cabins, lush forested grounds, and regular wildlife sightings. The owners specialize in romance! Owner Karen is an officiant, and she’s at the ready for any guests who wish to exchange vows on site. Choose from multiple scenic vantage points across their 15 acres. The elopement package includes a dozen red roses, wedding cake, Prosecco with souvenir champagne glasses, and an hour of photography to help you remember the moment. Make it a honeymoon, too, by staying in one of their cabins.
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Shenandoah National Park is one of the top destinations for eloping in Virginia, and there are many planners and photographers who will help you make those plans, if you wish. If you anticipate a gathering of 15 or more witnesses or require any kind of set-up, you will need to obtain a special use permit from the National Park Service. If those don’t apply, you may carry on, but do familiarize yourself with the rules of what is and is not allowed within the park.
Favorite SNP Elopement Sites
- Dark Hollow Falls
- Stony Man Trail
- Mary’s Rock
- Blackrock Summit
- Rocky Top Overlook
- Hazel Mountain Overlook
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Montfair Resort Farm in Crozet, VA regularly hosts weddings, but during the off season or midweek, they welcome elopements. The 129-acre property is beautiful and boasts several ideal locations (lakeside, maybe?) for exchanging vows. A number of eco-friendly cottages and cabins are available to make your elopement a very memorable getaway.
Hillbrook Inn & Spa in Charles Town, WV promises a stress-free elopement at their Tudor-inspired property. Multiple intimate sites are available for your choosing: fireside, terrace gardens, by the fountains, or on the bridge. The lush grounds ensure that wherever you stand is a breathtaking choice. After the vows, cut the cake, toast with champagne, and enjoy a three-course dinner. All of that is included, plus the bouquet and boutonniere. Add-ons of a photographer, musicians, and more are available.
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In picturesque Goshen, VA, Hummingbird Inn offers a “Just Us Two” elopement package that includes two nights in a manor room or private cabin, bouquet and boutonniere, wedding cake, champagne, flowers, gifts, gift card toward dinner, and breakfast. Spring for the privacy of the creekside Serenity Cabin. It is well appointed with all you need for a peaceful honeymoon.
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Overlooking the Shenandoah River, River Dell Bed & Breakfast in Luray, VA is an alluring location for a private ceremony. Share your vows with natural beauty as the perfect backdrop. When you book River Dell for your elopement, they do all the work. Flowers, cake, wine or cider for a toast, snapshot photos, simple decorations, and the officiant are included. A two-night stay is required, however.
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Are you ready to elope?
Virginia does not have a waiting period. Simply find a courthouse – together – and request a marriage license. You will need proof of age with a photo ID and the $30 fee; that’s it. Likewise, West Virginia does not have a waiting period. Their fee, however, is $57. For neither state is there a residency requirement, but the license expires 60 days from issuance in both.
Detailed Licensing Information: Virginia | West Virginia
Header image by Katie Teel.