Embarking on an international elopement is an exciting journey like no other! Jen + John’s elopement experience spanned two days, and two different regions of the country! For a look at the first day of their elopement, check out this blog post. Now that you’re all caught up, get ready to see how this hiking elopement in Grindelwald was the perfect addition for their Switzerland adventure, complete with mountains, hiking, Swiss cheese and cows! If you’re planning a similar elopement, here are some tips inspired by their incredible day.
Sunrise Elopement in Grindelwald
Jen and John began their day before dawn in the charming town of Grindelwald. Starting early allows you to capture the magic of sunrise. The first light of day revealed the majestic Mt. Eiger, which was so beautiful to see as they got ready in their hotel room.
Choosing the Perfect Accommodation for your Grindelwald Elopement
Their hotel not only offered breathtaking views but also a cozy and intimate space for getting ready. When selecting your accommodation, look for places with beautiful views or unique features that align with your vision. A room with a view can provide a dramatic setting for your getting-ready photos!
Scenic Train Rides and Picnics
Switzerland's train system is efficient and offers some of the most scenic journeys. Jen and John took a train to Wengen, which gave them a chance to relax and enjoy the picturesque landscapes without the hassle of driving. Many locations in Switzerland are only accessible via public transportation, so you might not have a choice! When planning your elopement, consider using trains to access remote or stunning locations while enjoying a scenic ride, but also keep in mind the timing of them and how that effects the light for your elopement day!
Picnic with a Swiss View!
After a train ride, Jen and John hiked a trail around Wengen and stopped for a picnic overlooking the valley. Packing a picnic is a wonderful way to create a romantic and relaxed moment in nature. Be sure to bring a blanket, some delicious local snacks, and perhaps a bottle of wine to enjoy a leisurely break surrounded by stunning scenery. These two picked up some local meats + cheeses and got to enjoy them with a view overlooking Lauterbrunnen valley!
After their picnic, Jen and John returned to their hotel for a brief refresh. Scheduling downtime is crucial during an elopement. It gives you a chance to rest, freshen up, and enjoy some quiet moments together before continuing with your plans. Jen + John had coverage with me for most of the day, which allows for little breaks like this to make sure you’re not flying through everything, and can refresh if needed!
Evening Hike in Grindelwald
Jen and John spent their afternoon and evening hiking a loop through the rolling hills of Grindelwald Valley. We took a cable car up to the start of the trail and were able to hike down through the valley with so many wonderful views of the valley. Once we found a spot that they loved, and was nice and quiet, we stopped and set them up to share their vows. Saying your vows is such a special moment, but adding in the fact that you’re surrounded by the Swiss Alps just makes it that much sweeter!
Cows in Switzerland
A trip to Switzerland isn’t complete without a stop to visit some cows! Lucky for us, there were some cute little “moo moo’s” as John likes to call them, waiting for us towards the end of our hike. The perfect way to cap off their Switzerland elopement experience!
Jen and John’s second day in Switzerland was filled with stunning views, cozy moments, and adventure. By starting early, taking advantage of scenic train rides, packing picnics, scheduling downtime, and staying flexible, you can create a similar experience! Planning an international elopement involves a blend of preparation and spontaneity, so be ready to take it all in and have the best adventure!
Did Jen + Johns Switzerland Elopement inspire you to plan your own? Let’s connect and chat about how we can create an elopement that’s just as special for the two of you!