Congrats! You’re thinking about having the most intimate wedding ever and that is something to celebrate! Whether you’re a local couple or planning a destination elopement in Minnesota, this guide will walk you through everything—from legal requirements to the best locations and vendors.
A Minnesota elopement by far is one of the most beautiful experiences you’ll ever have. Not only are you choosing to immerse yourselves in one of the BEST states in the US (unapologetically biased here), you are also choosing to do it in the most intentional way, where every detail is a reflection of who you two are AKA exactly what you want.
Needless to say, you want to make sure you know what you’re doing. And that’s why I’ve created this ultimate guide to planning your Minnesota elopement. I mean, we talk about legalizing your marriage, what to consider when finalizing your big decisions, location and date, and so much more.
Let’s get to the nitty gritty of things!
How to Obtain a Minnesota Marriage License to Make it Legal
Before getting married, Minnesota requires you to apply for a marriage license in-person with a photo ID such as a driver’s license or passport. You can get your marriage license from any county in Minnesota as long as you’re 18 years old. The cool thing is your marriage license is valid for up to 6 months and you can have your ceremony anywhere before handing it in!
Tip: Google “[your county] marriage license” and the results will take you right where you need to be.
Here’s my blog going into greater depth on How to Elope in Minnesota: Legalities and more.
Who Can Marry You and Do You Need Witnesses
- You must have an authorized officiant (minister, judge, or ordained person 21+ years old).
- Two witnesses (18+ years old) are required to sign the marriage license.
- Many couples file the paperwork before their elopement day to simplify things!
As an alternative, many couples choose to complete their legal paperwork before their elopement day.
Here’s how:
- Sign your marriage license at home. (This avoids legal hurdles on your elopement day.)
- Have a friend or family member officiate. (They must be at least 21 and registered in Minnesota.)
- Celebrate your elopement separately! (Just like I did—official at home, celebration in Punta Cana!)
If you prefer to not have any guests, I’m ordained in Minnesota and can perform your ceremony! We can always ask amazing bystanders to sign as witnesses because who wouldn’t want to be a witness to such a joyous celebration??
What is the Best Time of Year for a Minnesota Elopement?
Minnesota offers four distinct seasons, each bringing a unique experience. Here’s what you need to know:
| Season | Pros | Cons |
| Spring (April-May) | Wildflowers, fewer crowds | Unpredictable weather |
| Summer (June-August) | Warm, lush landscapes | Higher tourist traffic |
| Fall (Sept-Oct) | Stunning foliage, crisp air | Can be chilly at night |
| Winter (Nov-March) | Magical snowy elopements | Cold, shorter daylight hours |
Best Months: September & October (fall colors) or June (perfect weather).
Best Elopement Locations in Minnesota
Minnesota has incredible locations for every elopement style—from rugged cliffs to charming indoor venues. Here are some top picks:
North Shore (Lake Superior) – Best for Adventurous Couples
- Split Rock Lighthouse – Iconic lighthouse with stunning cliffside views.
- Tettegouche State Park – Dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
- Black Beach – Unique black sand beach, great for sunset ceremonies.
- Permit Required? Yes, apply via Minnesota DNR.
Northeast Minnesota – Best for Seclusion & Wilderness
- Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA) – Perfect for couples who love paddling and nature.
- Bearskin Lodge (Grand Marais) – A private, cozy lodge for intimate elopements.Twin Cities & Southern Minnesota – Best for Less Adventurous Couples
- Como Conservatory (St. Paul) – Lush indoor gardens for a beautiful, weather-proof elopement.
- Paikka (Minneapolis) – A modern, intimate venue with a minimalist feel.
- Nicolin Mansion Bed & Breakfast (Jordan) – Cozy, historic indoor setting.
Looking for more options? I provide custom location planning based on your vision!For additional location suggestions, read my blog on The Best Places to Elope in Minnesota for a deeper dive and more recommendations!
Start Planning Your Minnesota Elopement (Step by Step)
This is the time to dream as big as you can because the best way to start brainstorming is to do it with no limitations in mind. Here’s a link to my simple guide on How to Plan a Stress-Free Elopement!
Questions to get the brain warmed up:
- What does Minnesota mean to you?
- Where was your first date and what about it made it so memorable? Was this in Minnesota or does Minnesota have a similar place that would give you all the same feels?
- What are your favorite hobbies and activities to do together? Is it movie night? Checking out new breweries? Exploring state parks and hiking the trails?
- When you close your eyes and think about your elopement day, what do you hear? The autumn breeze? Distant conversations between courteous and mild-mannered residents (you know, why we’re “Minnesota Nice”)? What do you smell? Pine? Baked apple strudel? How do you feel? Relaxed? Excited? Adventurous?
- What are you doing on your day together? Are you sitting on the pebbly sand of Black Beach enjoying the view of Lake Superior? Are you canoeing the Boundary Waters? Skiing down the slopes of the Afton Alps? Or simply slow dancing under the stars at Voyageurs National Park?
- What have been the best days you two have had together, just the two of you?
How Do I Finalize the Big Decisions
Now that you have a vision for your Minnesota elopement, it’s time to start honing in on your big decisions, one step at a time..
Choose a Date
- What season would you like to elope in? We are blessed in Minnesota because we get the best (and worst) of all four seasons!
- Did you envision a fall day with red, orange and yellow leaves? Or were you thinking of winter because of the smell of pine boughs, evergreens, and snow? Perhaps summer is your vibe because you’re hoping to jump into one of the 10,000 lakes!
- What time of day? Think about rush hour, foot traffic of visitors/tourists, and how much privacy you’d like.
- What does this actual date mean to you? If nothing now, what will it mean to you in the future?
- How long will your elopement be? Are you considering a multi-day elopement where the first day is all about the two of you, followed by celebrating with friends and family on the second day?
- Have you considered transportation and travel time?
- What activities are you thinking of for the both of you to enjoy on your elopement day?
- These are some super fun activities to think about:
- Kayaking
- Hiking
- Bonfire
- Biking
- Dining
- Picnic
- Wine tasting
- Ziplining
- Snowboarding
- How do you want to end the day?
Choose a Location
- It’s ok to not have an exact location in mind yet (pssst…location planning assistance is something I provide!) but start thinking about the specific regions of Minnesota. What are you resonating with in that particular region?
- Are permits required? Are there restrictions and what are their elopement policies?
- Think about how far in advance you’d have to reserve a date if reservations are required.
Decide Who to Invite, if anyone.
- Are you inviting friends and family?
- Elopements do not have to be just two people. You can definitely still have an elopement with your most favorite people. For some couples, this decision is super easy and for others, it can be complicated.
- This is the part where you have to be super honest with yourself and think about:
- Will they be as excited for me as I am?
- Do I want them to hear my vows?
- Will lodging and transportation become overcomplicated?
- Is my location accessible?
- If I invite them, will I feel obligated to invite others?
- Will my elopement feel the same without them?
Research and Contact Your Vendors to Schedule Consultations
At last, the fun part—where you get to see it all come together!
- Start doing research on your vendors. After a Google search, I would suggest narrowing down your options by using Instagram! As a visual person, seeing their feed is so helpful.
- Talk to friends and family who were past brides and grooms about their vendors. Ask them what they were looking for in a vendor and if the vendor they hired met those desires. Make sure to ask if there’s anything they wished their vendor did differently and most importantly, if they feel a specific vendor actually wasn’t necessary.
- Finally, book those consultation calls and meet your vendor (virtually or in-person). It may sound like an extra step (and you may even feel like you don’t have time for it) but trust me, it makes all the difference in the world. Nothing hurts me more than reading a horror Reddit story about a couple who chose not to meet their vendor and their wedding wasn’t perfect because of this.
- Common vendors that elopement couples book
- Photographer (thasss me!)
- Videographer
- HMUA
- Hairstylist
- Florist
- Officiant
Pro-tip: book vendors 6+ months in advance.
Finally, have the best day ever!
I may have spent more time writing everything above, but this is the most important part of it all:
Slow down and just BE on your elopement day!
Don’t worry about anyone or anything else and just be present on your day. Soak it all in because it comes and goes fast. Have fun, relax, and CELEBRATE.
Frequently Asked Questions About Minnesota Elopements
Q: Do I need a permit to elope in a Minnesota state park?
A: Yes! Each park has different requirements. For example, Tettegouche State Park requires a $35 permit, while some locations have other policies and restrictions. Always check with the Minnesota DNR before finalizing your location.
Q: Can I self-solemnize my elopement in Minnesota?
A: No, Minnesota requires a registered officiant to legally marry you. However, I’m ordained and can officiate if needed!
Q: What’s the best way to legally elope without guests?
A: You can self-file your marriage license beforehand, then have strangers sign as witnesses on your elopement day!
Q: How much does it cost to elope in Minnesota?
A: It depends! A basic elopement with just a photographer, officiant, and simple location can be as low as $1,500-$3,000, while a more elaborate experience with vendors, decor, lodging and planning assistance could range from $5,000-$10,000+. Read my super helpful tips on How Much Does Minnesota Elopement Packages Cost or check out my very own pricing & packages here!
Need help planning your elopement?
Let’s get started because that’s why I’m here!
Hi! I’m Nuku and I provide planning assistance along with photography coverage for your badass elopement.
I strongly believe your elopement should be stress-free, beautiful, and 100% you. If you’re ready to create an unforgettable Minnesota elopement experience, I’d love to help!
Contact me here to start planning!
Follow me on Pinterest & Instagram for more Minnesota elopement inspiration!
Final Thought: No matter how or where you elope, remember to slow down, soak in the moment, and celebrate your love. Your day is about you two—nothing else matters.
