Mountain elopement in the Dolomites
Seceda is a stunning mountain peak located in the Dolomites, Italy. It's a popular destination for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers due to its breathtaking panoramic views - and, of course, for mountain elopements! M & A also fell in love with this incredible location and decided to elope in September 2023.
Having hiked their local mountains since childhood, a hiking elopement seemed the natural choice. As they had never been to the Alps before, they chose to hire a planner to guide them through the specifics of planning a mountain elopement in the European Alps.
M&A spent a week in South Tyrol, exploring different spots before their elopement. It is always a great opportunity to combine your elopement with a holiday (or even your honeymoon), as you get to enjoy the beautiful area even more intensively - and more relaxed.
M & A started their mountain elopement with a relaxed breakfast together with their family and friends. They both got ready on their own and drove to the parking space in St. Ulrich separately, with A taking the first gondola and M taking the second one.
It was very important for both of them to have a first look - and the moment just turned out perfectly. A loved M’s dress, which she chose together with her mum. They were both so happy to see their little dog Lyra all dressed up. What a special moment! A first look definitely makes an elopement in the European Alps even more magical.
After a short hike, they found the perfect spot for the ceremony where the celebrant held such an emotional speech that no eye stayed dry - especially when their dog brought the rings, the best maid of honor. The family was so lovely, enjoying every second with the couple. For a mountain elopement it is important that your guests support your vision throughout the whole day.
After the ceremony, M&A had time for the couple photoshoot, exploring the beautiful landscape of Seceda with its amazing peaks and panoramic views. They climbed on rocks, hiked up the smaller peaks, not caring in the least about their wedding attire getting dirty, even lying down in the grass. They enjoyed the session so much, with huge smiles on their faces. Their dog accompanied them everywhere, exploring the rocks and trails fearlessly. Hiking is not a must on your mountain elopement, there are several options where you can reach amazing spots easily by gondola.
After the photoshoot, they joined their family at a mountain hut for lunch, tasting the local cuisine of Kaiserschmarren and spinach knödel, outside in the sun. It was a beautiful and relaxing end to an amazing day, and everyone enjoyed the beautiful atmosphere of the mountain elopement.
Planning that day was such a pleasure, as M&A always knew exactly what they wanted and were not afraid to break with old traditions, creating a day just for the two of them and their closest family and friends. They combined a week-long stay with their elopement, exploring the European Alps in Germany, Austria, and Italy. An elopement is a magical day - so make it truly, boldly yours!
Here are the most important tips for planning an elopement at the Dolomites, Seceda:
Choose the season wisely - Seceda is located at 2,500 meters, therefore there can be snow until June and starting September.
Always pack a jacket - even in summer, there can be a cold breeze at that altitude.
Avoid the tourist season - choose a weekday and avoid the peak holiday season in August. Take an early gondola if you want more privacy.
Seceda is easily accessible, but it’s always advisable to wear hiking boots or comfortable shoes.
Hire an elopement photographer that knows the mountains, choosing the perfect backdrops and light.
Feedback from the couple:
“This is for all these couples that are considering Anne to organize your elopement: You will not regret it! I can honestly say that she did an amazing job and everything turned out perfectly! From the beginning of the preparation until the end of our elopement, Anne actually made sure to understand our needs and do everything for our day to run smoothly. It was extremely easy to talk to her and get in touch with her when we needed her services. She also had some great ideas on how to deal with the different parts of the organization.”
Photos by: https://www.nomadic-hearts.com
