Sunrise vs Sunset: What’s the Best Time to Elope
You’ve decided to elope (heck yes!)—but now comes a surprisingly tricky question: what’s the best time to elope—sunrise or sunset?
It’s a tough call—because both can be absolutely stunning. So the best time really depends on your location, whether you’re hiking or not, and how you want your day to feel.
Let’s break down the pros and cons so you can decide which moment is your moment.
Pros of Sunrise Elopement
- Privacy + peace and quiet: Early mornings are calm, quiet, and crowd-free. Especially if you’re eloping at a popular location, sunrise means more intimacy and fewer photobombers.
- Magical, soft light: That dreamy golden glow? Sunrise does it best. It’s gentle, romantic, and incredibly flattering.
- Fresh start energy: There’s something special about starting your forever as the world wakes up. It’s calm, intentional, and a little bit magical.
- Cooler temps: Great for summer elopements when mid-day heat can get intense.
- More time for adventuring: Eloping at sunrise gives you the whole day ahead for hiking, celebrating, eating waffles—you name it.
Cons of Sunrise Elopement
- You’ll be waking up early: And we mean really early, especially if you’re hiking or getting ready beforehand. Worth it? Usually. But it’s not for everyone.
- Limited time before harsh light hits: Once the sun is fully up, you’ve got a shorter window before that light gets bright and harsh, especially in wide-open landscapes.
- Chilly mornings: Depending on your location and season, sunrise can be brisk. Think blankets, hand warmers, and maybe a warm drink in your thermos.
Sunset Elopement
Pros of Sunset Elopement
- Easier morning: You can take your time waking up, getting ready, and easing into the day. No alarm clocks at 3 AM? Sounds like a win.
- Slow build of emotion: There’s something really special about building anticipation all day long and ending it with your vows as the sun sets.
- Warm, moody light: Golden hour at sunset hits different. It brings depth, warmth, and rich tones—perfect for romantic, cinematic photos.
- Time to celebrate after: Especially if you’re including guests, a post-ceremony dinner or cozy fireside hangout is easy to plan after a sunset elopement.
Cons of Sunset Elopement
- Crowds can be an issue: Many people flock to scenic spots at sunset. If privacy is a top priority, you’ll need to pick a location strategically.
- Limited light after the ceremony: Once the sun dips, it gets dark fast—so if you’re dreaming of a post-ceremony adventure, you’ll need to plan accordingly.
- Weather can be less predictable: Afternoons can bring pop-up storms or clouds. That golden hour might be more cloudy hour if the forecast shifts.
Why Having a Planner (Slash Photographer) Makes All the Difference
Apart from figuring out the best time to elope, there’s a lot that goes into making your elopement feel smooth, relaxed, and you. That’s where having someone in your corner (hi, that’s us 👋) really changes the game.
Here’s how we help:
- We troubleshoot the “what-ifs” before they happen
Weather, trail closures, timing hiccups—we plan ahead so you’re not left scrambling. - We build a timeline that actually works
No guesswork. Just a flow that fits your vibe, energy, and how you want the day to feel. - We set real expectations
Like what kind of light you’ll get, how long a hike will actually take, or when to plan that first look. - We always have a Plan B (and C)
If the weather shifts or a trail gets packed, we’ve got backup spots and ideas ready to go.
As Adirondack elopement photographers and planners, we’ve scouted the trails, tracked the light, and know the ins and outs of this region. Whether you’re dreaming of:
- a hike-to-the-summit sunrise,
- a relaxed late morning ceremony,
- a lakeside afternoon with your family, or
- a golden-hour vow exchange deep in the woods…
…we’ll help you make it happen, start to finish.
You don’t need to figure it all out on your own. That’s what we’re here for!
Sample Timelines for Sunrise vs Sunset Elopements
No two elopements are the same—and that’s the beauty of it. Your timeline can be as laid-back or adventurous as you want. Whether you’re hiking up a mountain in the dark or sharing a morning ceremony with your favorite people, here’s what a few real-life timelines could look like:
For the adventurous early birds who want to start their marriage literally on top of the world.
- 4:30 AM – Wake up + light snack/coffee
- 5:45 AM – Meet up + start hike with headlamps
- 6:30 AM – Arrive at summit, change into wedding attire
- 7:00 AM – Sunrise ceremony
- 7:30 AM – Portraits + quiet moment to soak it all in
- 8:15 AM – Hike back down
- 9:00 AM – Breakfast picnic or head to a cozy local café
- Rest of the day? Nap, relax, go for a paddle, or explore more of the area!
Best for couples who want privacy, epic views, and a peaceful start to the day.
For this example: a drive-up spot for low-key, relaxed—perfect for including loved ones (no hiking boots needed!)
- 7:30 AM – Wake up + getting ready at nearby cabin or Airbnb
- 8:45 AM – Drive to ceremony location
- 9:00 AM – Ceremony with family at scenic drive-up spot
- 9:15 AM – Family photos + Portrait Session
- 10:00 AM – Light brunch picnic or head to a local restaurant
- 11:00 AM – Optional short walk for just-you-two portraits
- 12:00 PM – Head back, chill, maybe even change and do a little afternoon exploring
Best for couples who want a calm morning, easy logistics, and to spend time with guests.
A sweet mix of intimate moments and sunset magic—ideal if you want it all.
- 2:00 PM – Start getting ready
- 3:30 PM – Head to ceremony location (lakeside, open field, forest clearing)
- 4:15 PM – Ceremony with or without guests
- 4:30 PM – Group photos + Portrait Session + chill time
- 5:30 PM – Small picnic, cake cutting, or mini celebration
- 6:00 PM – Head out for a short hike or drive to scenic overlook
- 6:30–7:30 PM – Sunset portraits + private vow exchange, if you like
- 8:00 PM – Wrap up + head back for dinner or bonfire
Best for couples who want to celebrate with loved ones, but also carve out sunset time just for themselves.
Check Out these Sunrise & Sunset Elopement Inspirations
Your Adventure, Your Timing
Whether you’re watching the sun rise over an alpine lake or chasing golden light through the pines at sunset, the Adirondacks show up and show off. The best part? There’s no wrong choice here—just the one that makes your day feel like you.
Still unsure which one fits your vision? We’ve hiked the trails, scouted the views, and know the best spots for both sunrise solitude and sunset magic.
Let’s chat!