Sunrise vs Sunset Elopements
The most beautiful times of day on our beautiful planet, when the sun rises and sets in our great big sky. Sunrise and sunset are notorious for great photography, thanks to “golden hour” that comes with them.
This short blog post is a summary of the pros and cons of planning your elopement at sunrise or sunset. At the end, I’ll share some tips on creating an elopement itinerary based around these times. There are no rules to elopement planning, but hopefully these tips will help you consider the options and decide on an itinerary that fits you best.
Sunrise Elopements
Sunrise elopements are my personal preference, but I’m a morning person! It’s a less common choice, especially in the summer, but it’s always so magical. For sunrise, that “golden hour” usually follows the sunset, but gets strongest around 30-40 minutes after the sun crosses the horizon.
Sunrise Elopement Pros:
Fewer people around in those iconic, popular areas (like Glencoe or the Isle of Skye)
Potentially better weather... potentially
Sunrise always feels like stolen time
If you're a nervous person, you have your ceremony first and don't have to spend the day anticipating it
You have the rest of the day to do activities (or travel to another location, or just lounge by the fire)
Sunrise Elopement Cons:
You might have to wake up really early to catch the sunrise (especially around May-August)
Temperatures are usually colder in the mornings
You'll be getting ready in the dark (so if you want first-look photos in natural lighting, this might not be the best option)
If you're getting hair and makeup done, you'll have to start in the wee hours of the morning
Sunset Elopements
Sunset elopements are absolutely classic! It’s a great way to naturally flow through the day, and lead straight into celebrations afterwards. Everyone loves a good sunset! For sunset, the golden light usually starts to appear around an hour before the sunset, but sometimes even earlier. In general, you get the most magical cloud colors within 30 minutes of the sun dipping behind the horizon - and sometimes, the colors will continue even after it’s gone.
Sunset Elopement Pros:
You don't have to wake up early!
You'll have more time to get ready and take it slow
Much easier for folks if you're having any guests
Possibility of a beautiful golden hour for photos
Sunset is a classic, romantic time of day!
You can go straight to dinner, which works well if you have special plans (private dining, or a meal with guests)
Sunset Elopement Cons:
Sunset can be a peak time for other visitors in popular locations, so potentially less privacy
Not as much time for photos afterwards
Once the light is gone, it's gone
You might have to stay out late for sunset (especially May-August), or go back out after dinner
Tips for Planning Your Elopement Around Sunrise and Sunset
It’s really hard to choose between sunrise and sunset! Here are 3 of my tips to help you consider what your elopement can be like:
All Day Photography - Why not both?! Opting for all-day photography means you can plan your day exactly how you want it, instead of cramming in coverage around one or the other.
Sun Angles and Light - Check the angle of the sun and where it's going to be rising or setting on your exact date/time/location (I can help with this!) Sometimes it moves behind nearby mountains or trees, which means you won't get good light (or warmth!) depending on your exact location.
Other Elopement Activities - You don't have to have your ceremony during sunrise or sunset. You can pick another special moment to share, like exchanging private vows, having your first dance, or reading letters from your family and friends.