The Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Wisconsin: How to Plan Your Dream Intimate Wedding

So, you’re thinking about eloping in Wisconsin? Let me just say, you’re making a great choice. Whether you’re dreaming of a lakeside vow exchange, a cozy woodsy ceremony, or a city courthouse ceremony in Milwaukee or Madison, Wisconsin has so many options for a sweet and intimate elopement day. Eloping is all about doing things your way, so let’s break it down and make this process stress-free, fun, and uniquely you in The Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Wisconsin.

Choose Your Dream Wisconsin Elopement Location

Wisconsin is packed with so many gorgeous elopement spots, from scenic state parks to charming small venues. Here are a few options to consider:

Lakeside Elopement Locations in Wisconsin

• Door County – Breathtaking coastal vibes with cliffs, beaches, and adorable lighthouses.
• Lake Geneva – A mix of elegance and nature, perfect for couples who want water views and small town charm.

Woodsy and Adventurous Elopement Locations in Wisconsin

• Devil’s Lake State Park – Epic rock formations, cliffs, and jaw-dropping sunsets.
• Copper Falls State Park – Waterfalls, hiking trails, and a cozy nature elopement spot.

Urban Elopement Locations in Wisconsin

• Milwaukee’s Third Ward/ Milwaukee Art Museum area – Industrial-chic, trendy, and perfect for couples who love city vibes, with so many different location options within walking distance or a short drive.
• Madison’s Capitol Area – Classic architecture with a modern touch—stunning in every season, plus it’s free to get photos inside the capitol.

Want more options? Check out my full Wisconsin Elopement Guide for even more gorgeous spots!

Pick Your Elopement Date and Get a Marriage License

Once you’ve picked your dream location, it’s time to lock in a date. Keep in mind:

• Peak season: Summer and fall are gorgeous but usually book up fast and can have more crowds.
• Off-season perks: Winter elopements can be so beautiful (hello, snowy wonderland!) and may have more vendor availability and less crowds.

Wisconsin Marriage License 101

• Apply in person at a Wisconsin county clerk’s office.
• There’s a waiting period, so plan ahead!
• You’ll need a valid ID, proof of residency, and a small fee (varies by county).

Pro tip: If you’re coming from out of state, research Wisconsin’s marriage laws early to avoid last-minute stress!

Find Your Dream Wisconsin Vendors

Even if you’re keeping things simple, a few key vendors will make your elopement seamless and stress free:

• Photographer (AKA ME)
• Officiant – You’ll need someone legally authorized to officiate!
• Florist
• Hair & Makeup Artist

Plan Your Wisconsin Elopement Day Timeline

Elopements aren’t just “quick ceremonies.” You deserve a full experience that feels like your perfect wedding day. Here’s a sample timeline for inspo:

12:00 PM – Getting Ready- Champagne, music, getting pampered—it’s your time to relax before the ceremony

2:30 PM – First Look and Private Vows- A quiet moment together before the ceremony (highly recommend!).

3:30 PM – Get on Ferry and head to ceremony spot. (keep an eye on ferry schedule and add in lots of buffer time)

4:30- Ceremony

5:00 PM – Family and Friend Photos in scenic spots

5:30 PM- Couple Photos and enjoy that just married feeling

6:30 PM – Back to ferry and head to mainland for Intimate Dinner Party- Whether it’s a picnic, a cozy Airbnb dinner, or a small party with loved ones—end your day exactly how you want it

Make Your Wisconsin Elopement Unique to You

The best thing about eloping? There are no rules.

Want to:

• Hike to your ceremony spot? DO IT.
• Say your vows in a kayak? YES.
• Have your dog be the ring bearer? I’M HERE FOR IT.
• Head to and island via ferry for your ceremony? LET’S DO IT.

Eloping is all about celebrating your love in a way that feels right to you. I’m here to help make that happen, whether that means scouting the best sunset locations, helping with permits, creating the perfect timeline, or giving you all the tips for a stress free day.

FAQs About Eloping in Wisconsin

Do we need witnesses for our Wisconsin Elopement?

Yes! Wisconsin requires two witnesses to sign your marriage license. If you’re eloping just the two of you, I can be one of your witnesses and bring my assistant along if they are free!

Can we elope in a state park?

Absolutely! Many state parks in Wisconsin are perfect for elopements, but some do require permits. I can guide you through the process and secure permits for you!

How much does a Wisconsin elopement cost?

It depends! You can keep it super budget-friendly or splurge on vendors and experiences. Most couples spend between $4,000–$10,000 for everything.

What should we wear for a Wisconsin elopement?

Whatever makes you feel amazing! Keep the season in mind, summer can be warm, while fall and winter require layers! Hiking boots are great if you know you will be hiking. You can always change into heels once you get to the spot.

What if it rains?

No stress! We’ll have a backup plan, and some of the best photos happen in the rain. Plus, I always have clear umbrellas in my car just in case.

About Jessica Frigge Photography | A Wisconsin Elopement Photographer

Hey, I’m Jessica, a Wisconsin elopement photographer! I prioritize capturing real, raw, and emotion filled moments. I believe that your wedding day should be all about you, your love story, your connection, and what truly makes you happy. Whether that means hiking to a stunning overlook, exchanging vows under trees, or keeping things simple in your backyard, I’m here to help create and plan your dream day.

With my experience photographing elopements, I can help guide you through location scouting, vendor recommendations, timeline planning, and making sure your day is exactly what you want.

Finally, Are You Ready to Start Planning? Let’s Chat!

Lastly, if you’re dreaming of an intimate, adventurous, stress-free Wisconsin elopement, I’d love to help plan it all. Let’s start brainstorming and make it happen! Reach out here!