How to Elope in West Virginia
Whether you're a local or traveling from out of state, West Virginia is a picture perfect place to elope! The expansive wilderness and hospitable communities will show you exactly why it's nicknamed "almost heaven." From the Appalachian Trail to the historic Harpers Ferry, you'll find your dream ceremony site and plenty to do to make your elopement day incredible - and this guide will tell you everything you need to know to elope in West Virginia!
The Best Time to Elope in West Virginia
Being in the east of the US, West Virginia experiences all four seasons. Because of that, your elopement can feel vastly different depending on what season you choose to have your ceremony in. I'll tell you all about what to expect in each season so you can decide what's best for you when you tie the knot!
Summer in West Virginia
Lush forests, sunny skies, and warm weather are what help make West Virginia's summers perfect for eloping. July is the warmest month, with high temperatures averaging at about 83 degrees. The rest of the summer, the temperatures stay between 60 and 80 degrees, meaning daytime is comfortable for sitting lakeside or cooling-off in waterfall swimming holes and evenings are warm enough to camp out. It's pretty busy most of the summer, though, so to avoid the crowds it's best to plan your ceremony for sunrise or sunset. Planning for a weekday elopement is another way to make sure you'll have fewer crowds when you say your vows!
Fall in West Virginia
The colors of fall in the mountains are a beautiful backdrop for your elopement. The rivers are lined with shades of oranges, yellows, and reds, bringing life to the valleys. The weather stays warm until the end of October, so you'll be able to comfortably hike up to the tallest peaks to see the valleys full of reds, yellows, and oranges. October is also the least busy time in West Virginia, so your elopement pictures have a lower chance of having photo-bombers!
Winter in West Virginia
The winters of West Virginia are regularly below freezing and snowing - so cold that the waterfalls freeze over, which can be a really cool experience if you can brave the cold. Whether you trek through the snow to reach some gorgeous views of a valley covered in a blanket of snow, plunge down the mountain on a snowboard, or ride through the trees on a snowmobile - there's so many things to do to make your elopement meaningful and exciting in a way that represents you!
Spring in West Virginia
One of the best times to elope in West Virginia is the spring. Waterfalls are thawing, wildflowers are blooming, and the weather warms up so you can take a hike in the woods or go even take a dip in the rivers. The weather in early spring can still be freezing at times, so try to shoot for later in spring if you're hoping to find warmer weather. Experiencing the New River Gorge in the spring is an experience like no other! The gorge is covered in a rainbow of wildflowers, and the waterfalls plummet into the valley, providing unbelievable settings for your elopement.
The Best Places to Elope in West Virginia
Rich in both natural beauty and history, West Virginia is the perfect place to elope! Between the rushing rivers, colorful mountains, and historical landmarks, you'll find so many places to say "I do." Here are some of the best places to elope in West Virginia!
In Nature
West Virginia is a beautiful state with an abundance of places in nature to say your vows. From the Allegheny Mountains to the New River Gorge, you'll find gorgeous views and rushing waterfalls wherever you turn. The Monongahela National Forest covers 8 wilderness areas including Spruce Knob, the highest point in the Allegheny Mountains, and Dolly Sods, the highest plateau east of the Mississippi. If heights aren't your thing, head deep into New River Gorge National Park to find waterfalls that cascade into the canyon and explore the abandoned mining towns.
A Historic Town
In West Virginia, you'll be able to explore tons of incredible historic landmarks throughout. The town of Harpers Ferry sits where the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers meet, with tons of historic sites such as Camp Hill and the Appalachian Trail! Charleston is the capital of West Virginia, located at the point where the Elk and Kanawha rivers meet. Say your vows in the gardens of The Craik-Patton House or tie the knot on the fishing pier at Daniel Boone Park.
A Resort or Cabin
If you want a more private place to get married, you can stay at a resort or rent an Airbnb for your ceremony! The Hillbrook Inn & Spa in Harpers Ferry has adorable hidden cottages tucked in the woods that are perfect for an elopement ceremony! The riverside Stonewall Resort in Stonewall Jackson State Park has rustic Adirondack style cabins and access to the West Fork River.
For an even more secluded spot, rent an Airbnb! Say "I do" surrounded by tall trees at Dreamtime, a modern A-frame with a cozy wood fireplace. The unique Holly Rock Treehouse is accessible only by canopy bridge and has a hot tub on the deck so you can take a relaxing soak in the treetops.
Get Legally Married When You Elope in West Virginia
If you want to get legally married in West Virginia, you'll need to get a marriage license! If you're a resident of West Virginia, you'll want to apply for your marriage license in the county closest to your home, but if you come from out of state, it's easiest to just go to the most convenient county clerk's office - that's usually the one that's closest to your elopement location.
There's no waiting period for a marriage license in West Virginia, which means you'll be able to get married as soon as you pick up your license, and it's valid for up to 60 days. To get your license, you'll have to provide your social security number, a legal government ID, and the $56 application fee. Once you have your license, you'll need to have an officiant to perform your ceremony - you can hire a professional, or ask a friend or family member! If you have someone in mind that you want to officiate your wedding, they can get ordained through the Universal Life Church and register with the state.
West Virginia Elopement Packages
On your wedding day, your number one priority should be celebrating your love. My job as a West Virginia elopement photographer is to document the story of your elopement day in the most raw and authentic way. That's why my West Virginia elopement packages are curated especially for you, so you'll be able to look back at your wedding day exactly as it was. If you're ready to start planning your West Virginia elopement, contact me to learn more about my elopement packages!
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