How to Elope in Maryland – Locations, Permits, & Maryland Elopement Packages
If exploring the US on your elopement interests you, maybe Maryland is the place to do it. With easy marriage laws and close proximity to other famous areas, Maryland makes it easy for couples to have their cake and eat it too. Let’s see if Maryland is right for you!
Why Elope in Maryland?
Simple Marriage Laws
Couples can get a marriage license from a Circuit Court Clerk with a short 48-hour waiting period. No witnesses are required, and the ceremony can be performed by various officiants. Couples choosing to elope in popular destinations with stricter marriage laws, including necessary witnesses, shorter license validity time, and longer waiting periods.
Convenience for Destination Elopements
Maryland is close to Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New York City, which allows couples to easily travel to and from these popular honeymoon and elopement locations. As mentioned, couples often choose Maryland for its simpler marriage laws, only to celebrate in the surrounding states or cities.
Historical Charm
Colonial towns like Annapolis and St. Michaels are full of waterfronts and maritime heritage, while Frederick and the Mount Vernon areas have old estates and 19th-century architecture. Similar to what else you’ll see on the East Coast, parts of Maryland are stuck back in time and attract couples interested in historic events, architecture, and landscapes.
What is Maryland Known For?
Birthplace of the Star-Spangled Banner
This historic fort defended Baltimore Harbor against British naval forces during the War of 1812. During the Battle of Baltimore in September 1814, Francis Scott Key saw the American flag still flying after a night of bombings, inspiring him to write the poem that later became the United States national anthem.
Chesapeake Bay
The Chesapeake Bay is the largest estuary in the United States, covering over 64,000 miles. It supports ecological diversity, including unique marine life and migratory birds. It also plays a significant role in the state’s economy, culture, and history.
Seafood, Especially Blue Crabs
Seafood is well-known for its freshness here, especially its famous blue crabs (yes, BLUE!). The Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean waters hold a wide range of marine food, including the famous Maryland blue crabs seasoned with Old Bay seasoning, which also originated here.
What Animals Are Unique to Maryland?
Maryland is home to the Chesapeake Bay blue crab, the endangered Maryland darter, wild island ponies, and the Delmarva Peninsula fox squirrel. Others include the diamondback terrapin, Eastern box turtle, and the bald eagle.
Is Eloping in Maryland Right for Me?
Not the perfect fit? Try these similar states instead:
Pennsylvania
New Jersey
Delaware
Connecticut
How to Elope in Maryland
Learn about commitment ceremonies!
Obtain a Marriage License
Purchase a wedding license from the Circuit Court Clerk’s office in the county where you plan to elope. The fee varies by county but can range between $35 and $85.
Waiting Period
There is a 48-hour waiting period before the license is valid, and expires 6 months afterward.
Find an Officiant:
In Maryland, only a licensed minister or a member of the legislative system is allowed to officiate the ceremony. Online ordinations are not recognized. However, if you want a friend or family member to be involved in the ceremony, they can participate in certain parts of it, but the official vows must be performed by a recognized officiant.
Don’t want to worry about finding an officiant? Ask me about my complimentary officiating services!
Previous Marriages:
If previously married, you must provide the exact date and location of the divorce or death of the former spouse. In some cases, a certified copy of the divorce decree or death certificate may be required.
Choose Your Location(s):
Work with your photographer to determine the best locations and timelines for you, including hidden gems, popular venues, cinematic backdrops, and more.
When is the Best Time to Elope in Maryland?
Please click each photo to view the applicable credited sources.
Spring (March to May)
Spring is from March to May and ranges from 40°F to 80°F. Cherry blossoms and blooms can be found across the state, drawing in tourists and visitors. Accommodations may be closed or just beginning to open, depending on the time of year you go.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is normally 70°F to 90°F from June to August. Ocean City and Assateague Island are popular areas that will be busy, limiting privacy options without reserved accommodations. Despite popularity, summer is the best time to experience in-season seafood, water sports, and the state's outdoor recreation.
Fall (September to November)
September to November, fall is normally 60°F to 65°F. Tourists prefer Catoctin Mountain parks for fall colors and cultural events like Oktoberfest. Common fall activities include hiking, apple picking, and exploring historic towns like Frederick. October is also an iconic time and takes you back to the good ole’ days of nostalgic Halloween (iykyk.)
Winter (December to February)
Winter brings chilly temperatures of 30°F to 45°F from December to February. Highlights include holiday festivities and outdoor activities like skiing, sleigh rides, and ice skating.
Where to Elope in Maryland
Read about whether you should elope in a State or a National Park!
National Parks
-
Antietam National Battlefield
Assateague National Seashore
Catoctin Mountain Park
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
Greenbelt Park
Harmony Hall
Oxon Cove Park & Oxon Hill Farm
Piscataway Park
State Parks
-
Assateague State Park
Big Run State Park
Casselman River Bridge State Park
Chapel Point State Park
Chapman State Park
Cunningham Falls State Park
Dan's Mountain State Park
Deep Creek Lake State Park
Elk Neck State Park
Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area
Fort Frederick State Park
Fort Smallwood Park
Gambrill State Park
Garrett State Forest
Greenbrier State Park
Gunpowder Falls State Park
Herrington Manor State Park
Horns Point Harbor Marina
Huntington State Park
Janes Island State Park
Leatherman's Overlook on Backbone Mountain
Martinak State Park
Maryland Wildlands State Park
Mason-Dixon Trail
Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary
Monocacy National Battlefield
New Germany State Park
North Point State Park
Patapsco Valley State Park
Pocomoke River State Park
Point Lookout State Park
Potomac State Forest
Rocky Gap State Park
Rosedale State Park
Sandy Point State Park
Seneca Creek State Park
Smallwood State Park
South Mountain State Park
St. Clement's Island State Park
St. Mary's River State Park
Susquehanna State Park
Swallow Falls State Park
Tuckahoe State Park
Tuckahoe State Park Campground
Wye Island Natural Resources Management Area
USDA Forest Service:
The USDA Forest Service does not manage any land in Maryland.
Bureau of Land Management:
BLM does not manage any land in Maryland.
Unique Stays
Each photo is credited to AirBnb.
Most Popular Elopement Locations in Maryland
Assateague Island National Seashore
Brookside Gardens in Wheaton
Patapsco Valley State Park
Historic Londontown and Gardens in Edgewater
The Cloisters Castle in Lutherville
The Walters Art Museum in Baltimore
Where to Visit for Unique Photos in Maryland
Have the freedom to choose a unique elopement location and a variety of smaller, lesser-known areas that make for creative and memorable photo opportunities. Remember, these are only a few examples! I have many more options we can visit together
Fells Point Alleys (Baltimore): Cobblestone streets and historic brick buildings.
Ladew Topiary Gardens (Monkton): Topiary sculptures and gardens.
Quiet Waters Park (Annapolis): Wooded trails, waterfront views, and sculpture gardens.
Elk Neck State Park: The northeastern tip of the Chesapeake Bay, this park features rugged cliffs and sandy shores.
St. Michaels: An area with historic buildings, quaint shops, and harbor views.
Please respect all natural areas and leave it better than you found it. Vandalism will result in the closing and protection of such unique areas.
How Much Does it Cost to Elope in Maryland
-
$85 — marriage license
$500 — 3-night Airbnb stay
$5500 — photographer
$300 — bouquet + boutonniere
$500 — wedding dress
$200 — suit rental
$200 — restaurant dinner + drinks
free – national forest ceremony venue
free — DIY hair + makeup
Total: $7,285
-
marriage license — $85
4 night luxury airbnb stay — $2000
photographer — $10500
bouquet, boutonniere, florals for ceremony and dinner — $1000
wedding dress — $3000
suit purchase — $1000
private chef — $800
5-6” custom cake — $350
on site hair + makeup — $800
Assateague Island National Seashore permit fee — $50
Total: $19,585
Current Specials for Maryland Bookings
Maryland Elopement Packages
Your elopement experience is fully customized from the very beginning. All Maryland elopement packages include:
All travel within Maryland (your investment does not change based on location)
Personalized location recommendations based on season, accessibility, and your vision
Permit research and guidance (when required)
Curated vendor recommendations (florals, hair + makeup, private chefs, etc.)
Activity ideas unique to your relationship and interests
A handcrafted elopement timeline designed for a relaxed, intentional experience
Every elopement gallery includes high-resolution digital images with printing rights, delivered through a private online gallery where you can view, download, print, and share your images with loved ones — so you can relive your experience for years to come.
Multi-Day Elopement Experience
Starting at $10,500
Designed for couples who want their elopement to unfold over multiple days. This experience allows you to exchange vows in one iconic Maryland location and spend another day exploring a completely different landscape — creating space for both adventure and restoration.
This option is ideal if you’re dreaming of a deeply immersive experience that feels more like a getaway than a single-day event. An example of this would be eloping at the top of Sugarloaf Mountain and the following day relaxing and picking apples at Butler’s Orchard and ending the evening at Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard for wine tasting.
Full-Day Elopement Experience (Up to 12 Hours)
Starting at $8,500
Perfect for couples who want the freedom to experience their entire elopement day without watching the clock. This coverage allows time for getting ready, your ceremony, multiple locations, longer hikes, scenic drives, and a relaxed celebration — all at a natural, unhurried pace.
This is the most popular option for couples who want a complete, story-driven elopement experience.
Half-Day Elopement Experience (Up to 6 Hours)
Starting at $5,500
Designed for couples who want a beautifully intentional elopement while keeping the day more streamlined. This experience is ideal for a single primary location, a short hike, and a relaxed ceremony followed by portraits and a meaningful activity.
Maryland Elopement Checklist
An all in-one, comprehensive guide on how to elope. From an iceberg in Alaska to a boat deck in the Florida Keys, this guide will give you all the steps on how to plan your perfect elopement day.
Unique Things to Do in Maryland
Whether you want to celebrate or combine a fun honeymoon with your elopement experience, there are a variety of unique things to do around the state that will add to your fun.
Read about the best places to honeymoon in the US.
Explore St. Mary's College (unique photo location)
Please note that these are old ruins and can be unsafe. Locals have reported being ticketed when parking beneath the stairs/walkway.
Find and watch the ponies on Assateague Island
Please note these are wild animals. All Leave No Trace rules still apply. Keep a bus length between you and the horses. Do not feed or interact with them. Do not be a touron.
Visit the George Peabody Library
Referred to as the ‘cathedral of books', this location would make for a a fun afternoon date or make for a great photo opportunity, especially if you’re fond of Beauty and the Beast. Please note this library is closed Sundays and Mondays.
Visit Ladew Topiary Gardens
Visit the Ministry of Brewing
Maryland Elopement Timeline Examples
-
9 - 11 am: Breakfast Together/with Family, Enjoying Coffee with a View at Beach House
11am - 2pm: Hair & Makeup/Getting Ready Separately
2:15pm: First Look on the Beach
2:45pm: Depart to Assateague OSV Area
30 minute commute to OSV Area from Ocean City, MD
3 pm: Arrive at OSV Area
3:15 - 6:15 pm: Cruise Along Beach, Stopping for Ceremony, Family Portraits, Enjoy a Celebration on the Beach
6:15 pm: Head back to Beach House for Dinner with Family Prepared by a Private Chef
75 minute commute back to Ocean City Beach House
7:30 pm: Freshen Up, Outfit Change
7:30 - 8:15 pm: Sunset Portraits on Beach in front of Beach House
8:20 - 9:30 pm: Enjoy a Private Dinner
-
On Day 1:
9 - 11 am: Breakfast Together, Enjoying Coffee with a View at Riverfront Airbnb
11am - 2pm: Hair & Makeup/Getting Ready Together
2 pm: Picnic Lunch by the River Outfront Airbnb
3 pm: Depart to Sugarloaf Mountain
10 minute commute to Trailhead
2:10 pm: Arrive at Trailhead (To west view point, 2.9 miles)
2:25 - 5:25 pm: Hike Trail, Stopping for Ceremony at West View Point,
Portraits, and Champagne Celebration5:40 pm: Head back to Airbnb
10 minute commute
6 pm: Freshen Up, Outfit Change
6:30 pm: Start Bonfire
6:45 - 8:45 pm: Roast Hotdogs and Smores Over the Fire while Watching the Sunset
On Day 2:
1 pm: Drive to Butler’s Orchard
30 minute commute
1:45 - 2:45 pm: Pick your own Apples at Butler’s Orchard
3:00 pm: End the evening at Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard for Wine Tasting
Draw Inspiration from Other Elopements
Which Elopement Package is Right for Me?
Multi-Day Elopement Experience
This experience is ideal for couples who want their elopement to feel like a once-in-a-lifetime journey rather than a single moment.
This experience is right for you if:
You want to combine your elopement with a getaway or honeymoon
You’re drawn to multiple Maryland landscapes and don’t want to choose just one
You value slow mornings, golden evenings, and complete storytelling
You want space for both adventure and restoration
Full-Day Elopement Experience (Up to 12 Hours)
This experience offers the most flexibility and creative freedom within a single day.
This experience is right for you if:
You want to document your entire day from start to finish
You’re planning multiple locations, activities, or longer hikes
You want time for getting ready, your ceremony, portraits, and a celebration
You prefer a relaxed flow rather than a tightly scheduled timeline
Half-Day Elopement Experience (Up to 6 Hours)
This experience is best suited for couples who want something intimate, meaningful, and beautifully simple.
This experience is right for you if:
You want a short, intimate ceremony
You prefer minimal transitions and a calm pace
You plan to stay close to your accommodations
You envision one primary location with little to no driving
Choose Maryland for a cozy and romantic elopement. Whether in the Chesapeake Bay, the charming countryside, or the iconic city of Baltimore, you're in for an unforgettable experience. With a straightforward process and close proximity to other locations that couples may want to add to their itinerary, this state offers variety and flexibility for free spirits and experience-seekers.
Do you think Maryland is the place for you? Let me help you choose the best locations, acquire permits and documentation, and capture your elopement in the way you dreamed it would be. Are you ready to get started?
