New England Coastal Elopement: featuring Blue Hill Inn - Tips & Tricks

Liz Bashaw
Apr 22
4 min read

So, you’re dreaming about ditching the big traditional wedding and running off for an intimate, stylish elopement on the coast of New England? Same. Jess & Cody’s New England Coastal Elopement featuring Blue Hill Inn in Newbury Massachusetts was the perfect styled photoshoot to exemplify this. As a New England Wedding Photographer I have traveled and seen some of the most beautiful ocean views and witnessed some amazing “I do’s” Massachusetts is an underrated coastal gem, whether that’s the North Shore, Boston Seaport, or the South Shore / The Cape there are so much good food to eat and sand to feel between your toes!

If you're dreaming of an effortlessly beautiful elopement by the ocean, here's your step-by-step guide/tips to making it happen.

Step 1: Choose Your Coastal Location

New England’s coastline is full of charm, variety, and jaw-dropping beauty—no matter the vibe you’re going for. From quaint harbor towns to wild rocky cliffs, there’s a coastal spot with your names written all over it. A few standout options:

Cape Cod, MA – Classic and windswept, with endless stretches of beach, dunes, and lighthouses. Ideal for a timeless, barefoot ceremony in the sand.
Southern Maine Coast – Think Kennebunkport or Ogunquit—charming fishing villages, historic inns, and stunning rocky shorelines that bring all the coastal drama. Think amazing seafood meals and elegant photo options.
Newport, RI – Glamorous, coastal elegance meets history. Picture cliffside vows with Gilded Age mansions in the background and sailboats passing by. So many activities like sailboat rides and vintage car rides along the coast to classy bars and great food.
Block Island, RI – A more low-key alternative to Nantucket, with soft beaches, rugged cliffs, and a relaxed island vibe. Plus the added bonus of a fun ferry ride.
Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard, MA – If you’re dreaming of ferry rides, designer touches, and upscale seaside charm, these islands are a dream. The Obama's vacation here and the Kardashians. If that doens't scream classy I am not sure what else would.
Acadia National Park, ME – For the more adventurous souls, eloping along the coast of Mount Desert Island offers rugged cliffs, pink granite, and panoramic Atlantic views.
Newburyport, MA - Plum Island, downtown Newburyport, and of course Blue Hill inn there is so much to see and do when eloping in this quaint Massachusetts town.

Tip: Think about the vibe you want—barefoot and boho, classic and coastal, or moody and editorial. Your location sets the tone for the whole experience.

Step 2: Decide on a Date & Time

The best months to elope on the East Coast are late spring through early fall (May to October). The weather is mild, and you'll avoid the harsher New England chill. (Hello 6 months of winter)

For lighting (and a little more privacy), you can plan your ceremony for sunrise or golden hour. You’ll avoid crowds and get the dreamiest, most editorial-worthy lighting for your photos.

Step 3: Check for Permits & Legal Requirements

Massachusetts marriage laws are relatively straightforward, but you’ll still need to check a few boxes:

Marriage License: Apply at any city or town clerk's office in Massachusetts. There’s a 3-day waiting period, and it’s valid for 60 days.
Officiant: You can bring your own, or ask a close friend / your photographer (ME!) To become ordained (yes, it’s legal certain states like MA).
Permits: If you're eloping in a public space (like a beach or park), check with the town or Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) to see if you need a permit for gatherings or professional photography.

Tip: If you want a more traditional feel for your ceremony, hiring someone to be your officiant adds that extra element of authenticity.

Tip 2: Sometimes eloping in cities or other states places have fees for these permits or locations so keep that in mind when planning financially.

Step 4: Hire Your Dream Team

Even a small elopement deserves a stellar vendor team to help bring it all together.

Photographer: (Hi, it’s me 👋): Look for someone who has experience and can offer you a balanced approach to capturing your love in addition to having a editing and artistic style that you LOVE. You’ll want someone who can capture the in-between moments, support you when you need it, connects with you well, and offers you a communicative and elevated experience.
Planner or Day-of Coordinator (optional but helpful): Especially if you're traveling in from out of state or eloping on an island like Nantucket.
Florist: You may be skipping the bouquet toss, but having a beautiful floral arrangement and/or a boutonniere as a memento of your day makes it even more personal and special. Wild, windswept bouquets with seasonal blooms always look amazing against a coastal backdrop.
Hair & Makeup: Consider someone who can do on-site touch-ups and handle humidity or wind.

Step 5: Design a Ceremony That Feels Like You

With an elopement, there are no rules—just intention. Write your own vows, bring a meaningful item (like a family heirloom or handwritten letter), or include a ritual that feels special (like a sand ceremony or shared toast). You can even bring your dog. (Please bring the pups!)

Need help with structuring a meaningful, short ceremony? Ask your officiant or photographer—we’ve seen a lot of magic happen in just 10 minutes.

Step 7: Make It Legal

Don’t forget to sign your marriage license! You’ll need your officiant and one witness (or two, depending on your town). Then return it to the same clerk’s office where you applied.

Bonus Tips

Pack layers (even in summer, coastal breezes can be chilly).
Bring a pair of backup shoes (especially if you're trekking to a rocky overlook).
Always have a backup rain plan—but trust that moody skies make for insanely beautiful photos.

Let’s Start Planning Your Dreamy Coastal Elopement

Whether you’re just starting to dream it up or already have a date circled on the calendar, I’m here to help you craft an elopement experience that’s beautifully intentional and totally you.

✨ [Inquire Here] to get my Massachusetts Elopement Guide, check availability, or just say hey. I can’t wait to hear your story and start dreaming up your seaside “I do.”