An Ultimate Guide to Sunshine Coast Elopements
Ready to say ‘I do’ in paradise? Look no further than the stunning Sunshine Coast. Experience the magic of Sunshine Coast elopements as you exchange vows against its beautiful beaches, lush hinterland, and year-round sunshine. It really is one of Queensland’s perfect destinations for a dream elopement.
WHEN TO ELOPE ON THE SUNSHINE COAST
The Seasons
The Sunshine Coast generally experiences beautiful balmy weather throughout the year. However, there are some considerations for each season.
Autumn (March – May) offers mild temperatures, less humidity and generally stable weather conditions. It’s when the Hinterland is most alive with warm vibrant colours.
Winter (June – August) is the pick of the seasons if your dream elopement is on the beach. Picture crystal waters, with clear skies and gentle cool breezes. If you’re lucky you’ll have some amazing onlookers – humpback whales!
Spring (September – November), the Goldilocks season. It’s “just right with low rainfall, mild temperatures and humidity. Also known for its incredible selection of blooming flowers an incredible bouquet is guaranteed.
Summer (December – February) can be high in temperature (30 degrees +) and high in humidity! A great combination if you froth on tropical like weather. Plus, the longer days means there is so much room for activities. A sunrise beach ceremony, brewery tour, and sunset portraits in the hinterland, anyone?
Hot Tip: Not only is the Sunshine Coast a dream elopement location, its also a popular holiday destination. Before choosing a date, I would recommend looking at the Queensland School Holiday Calendar. School Holidays are seasons of their own ha ha.
SUNRISE OR SUNSET?
Both times of the day offer unique atmospheres and breath-taking visuals! The choice between a sunrise or sunset ceremony can depend on personal preferences and the experiences you want to create . YOUR DAY, YOUR WAY ?
WHERE TO ELOPE ON THE SUNSHINE COAST?
You might have a clear vision of where you want to elope on the Sunshine Coast, or you might have no idea at all. And this is exactly where I can help you! I have lived on the Sunshine Coast for 6 years and have an abundance of ideas and recommendations to share.
Below are some things to think about in the pre-planning stages. It will spark inspiration and narrow down your ideal location are:
- Do you want to go hiking, 4wding, or prefer easily accessible locations?
- What landscape sets your souls on fire? Summits, lakes, beach, paddocks?
- Are you interested in including an activity on your elopement day?
- Do you want to include guests?
Some of my favourite Sunshine Coast Elopement locations include Maleny Hinterland, Caloundra, Mapleton National Park, Noosa, Glass House Mountains. All of these are full of epic Air BNBs, Hip Camps and hotels.
Hot Tip: When looking for accommodation, think about whether it could be an option for a backup rain plan. Or plan B in general.
ACTIVITIES TO INCLUDE ON YOUR ELOPEMENT DAY
Want to jump out of a plane after your sunrise ceremony and land on one of the Sunshine Coasts beautiful beaches? LETS DO IT.
Or perhaps you’re imagining exchanging vows in a lush paddock, surrounded by cows, followed by an epic sunset picnic.
Other ideas for eloping on the Sunshine Coast:
- Visit a Brewery or Distillery
- Hike one of the Glass House Mountains
- Camel rides along the beach
- Hire a private chef at your Air BNB
With an elopement, you’re in control. It’s your chance to create something truly one-of-a-kind where the ceremony and the whole day is uniquely yours. Your elopement day can be as chill or as adventurous as you want.
FURTHER INSPO: 50 THINGS TO DO ON YOUR ELOPEMENT DAY
THE LEGALITIES
Elopement ceremonies offer two choices;
- A legally binding ceremony officiated by a register marriage celebrant
- A symbolic ceremony.
Engaging with a marriage celebrant for a legally binding ceremony ensures recognition of your marriage under Australian Law. While a symbolic ceremony won’t legally recognised. it grants the opportunity to express heartfelt vows and commitments in a deeply intimate and beautiful manner.
Do you want your marriage to be recognised legally and experience the intimacy of a ceremony with just the two of you? That’s definitely possible! Begin by legalising your marriage at The Registry then book an elopement photograph to help with the planning and capturing the celebration of your love.
THE MOST IMPORTANT PART ABOUT PLANNING YOUR ELOPEMENT
I’ve said it before and I’’ll say it again – YOUR DAY, YOUR WAY. Each love story is distinctly different, and deserves to be honoured. It’s more than just vows and epic photos, it’s the adventure as a whole that you’re on together.
Make sure you find an elopement photographer who not only captures beautiful images, but one that you can trust to bring your vision to life. If you believe that is me, contact me here and lets begin the planning process together!
