How to Elope in New Hampshire – Locations, Permits, & New Hampshire Elopement Packages
New Hampshire is one of the most versatile elopement destinations in New England offering mountain landscapes, coastal views, historic towns, and quiet forested spaces all within a relatively small area. With straightforward marriage laws and a wide range of ceremony locations, it’s also one of the reasons New Hampshire frequently appears on my list of Easiest Places to Elope for couples who want a meaningful experience without overcomplicated logistics.
This guide is written for couples who want their New Hampshire elopement to feel calm, intentional, and thoughtfully handled — not pieced together through last-minute decisions or guesswork.
Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate ceremony in the White Mountains, a windswept coastal elopement along the Seacoast, or a multi-day experience that blends adventure with slow New England charm, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to elope in New Hampshire — from marriage laws and permits to seasons, locations, costs, and customizable elopement packages.
Why Elope in New Hampshire?
Simple Marriage Laws in New Hampshire
Getting married in New Hampshire is refreshingly straightforward. There is no residency requirement, marriage licenses can be issued the same day, and couples have flexibility when choosing an officiant. These simple logistics make New Hampshire especially appealing for couples planning from out of state or on a shorter timeline.
Safe, Accessible, and Easy to Travel
New Hampshire consistently ranks as one of the safest states in the U.S., making it an easy and comfortable place to travel for an elopement. Its compact size means you can move between mountains, lakes, and the coast without long drive times allowing you to focus more on the experience and less on logistics.
Classic New England Charm & Character
From historic villages and white-steepled churches to coastal towns and mountain inns, New Hampshire offers timeless New England charm. Cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, town greens, and maritime heritage create a setting that feels both intimate and full of character making it perfect for couples drawn to a sense of place and history.
What is New Hampshire Known For?
New Hampshire is known for its independence, natural beauty, and deep-rooted New England history. For couples eloping here, that translates into flexibility, character-rich locations, and a wide range of landscapes that allow your day to feel intentional rather than overproduced.
History, Heritage & New England Culture
New Hampshire’s history dates back to colonial times, with a strong emphasis on preservation and local tradition. Towns like Portsmouth, Concord, and Hanover reflect this heritage through historic architecture, walkable downtowns, and a strong sense of place. For eloping couples, this means access to charming town centers, historic inns, and locations that feel meaningful and lived-in rather than tourist-driven.
“Live Free or Die” Spirit:
New Hampshire’s state motto, Live Free or Die, reflects a deeply ingrained culture of independence and personal freedom. That mindset shows up in how people live and how couples can design their elopement. With fewer restrictions, minimal red tape, and a strong respect for personal choice, New Hampshire is an ideal place for couples who want the freedom to craft a day that reflects their values rather than tradition.
No Sales Tax or State Income Tax:
New Hampshire is one of the few states in the U.S. with no sales tax or state income tax. While this is often mentioned from a lifestyle perspective, it can also benefit eloping couples by keeping costs lower when booking lodging, dining, and experiences — leaving more room in your budget to prioritize what matters most.
What Animals Are Unique to New Hampshire?
New Hampshire’s landscapes support a wide range of wildlife, especially in its forests, mountains, and coastal areas. While this may not be a deciding factor for every couple, it adds to the feeling of eloping somewhere wild, preserved, and closely connected to nature.
The New England cottontail rabbit is one of the region’s most notable species and relies on dense shrubland habitats that are carefully protected throughout the state. Moose are another iconic presence in northern New Hampshire, particularly in the White Mountains and remote forested regions. You may also encounter American black bears, white-tailed deer, and a variety of bird species depending on the season.
Along the coast, birdlife becomes a focal point. The piping plover, an endangered shorebird, nests on New Hampshire’s beaches during warmer months. Its presence has led to conservation efforts and seasonal protections that help preserve the natural shoreline.
For couples eloping in New Hampshire, this diversity reinforces the sense of being immersed in nature. Whether you are exchanging vows in the mountains, near a lake, or along the coast, the environment feels alive and intentional rather than overly developed.
Is Eloping in New Hampshire Right for Me?
New Hampshire is a great fit for couples who want flexibility, scenic variety, and a balance between adventure and comfort. With mountains, lakes, coastline, and historic towns all within easy reach, it allows you to design an elopement that feels personal without being logistically overwhelming.
If you’re unsure whether New Hampshire fits your vision, this short quiz will help you decide based on your priorities, travel style, and the type of experience you want your elopement to feel like.
Not the perfect fit? If New Hampshire does not feel quite right, you may want to explore similar elopement destinations instead:
Maine
Vermont
Massachusetts
Rhode Island
Connecticut
If you are feeling more adventurous, you can also explore eloping out of the country for a destination-style experience that feels more immersive.
How to Elope in New Hampshire
Eloping in New Hampshire is a relatively simple process, especially for couples planning from out of state. Below is a clear breakdown of what you will need to legally and thoughtfully plan your elopement day.
Obtain a Marriage License:
Marriage licenses in New Hampshire can be obtained at any town or city clerk’s office.
The marriage license fee is $60
There is no waiting period
Licenses are valid immediately
Both partners will need to appear in person and provide identification
Because licenses are issued the same day, New Hampshire works well for couples planning on a shorter timeline.
Age Requirements:
The minimum age to marry in New Hampshire is 16, with judicial approval required. Couples who are 18 or older will need to provide valid photo ID to verify their age and identity.
Find an Officiant:
New Hampshire does not allow self-solemnization, so an officiant is required to legally perform the ceremony and sign the marriage license.
Couples can:
Hire a professional officiant through platforms like WeddingWire, The Knot, or Thumbtack
Ask a close friend or family member to become ordained
Organizations such as the Universal Life Church offer free and simple online ordination, which allows loved ones to participate in your ceremony in a meaningful way.
Don’t want to worry about looking for an officiant? Ask me about my complimentary officiating services!
If you’re unsure whether a legal marriage is right for you, or you’re considering an alternative ceremony, you may find it helpful to read What Is a Commitment Ceremony & Do We Need a Marriage License? This can help you decide whether you want to legally marry in New Hampshire or simply exchange vows in a way that feels most aligned with your relationship.
Consider Permits and Regulations:
Permit requirements depend on where you choose to elope.
State parks may require a special use permit for ceremonies
White Mountain National Forest often allows small, low-impact ceremonies, though rules vary by area
Historic sites and coastal locations may have additional restrictions or seasonal limitations
I help couples navigate permit requirements during the planning process so expectations are clear before finalizing locations and timelines.
Build Your Elopement Timeline:
A well-designed timeline allows your elopement day to feel calm, intentional, and unrushed.
When building a timeline, I help couples account for:
Getting ready at a relaxed pace
Travel time between locations
Lighting and weather considerations
Time for meaningful activities and quiet moments together
Whether your elopement takes place over a few hours or across multiple days, the goal is always the same. Your day should feel natural and aligned with your priorities.
When is the Best Time to Elope in New Hampshire?
Please click each photo to view the applicable credited sources.
The best time to elope in New Hampshire depends on the type of scenery, weather, and overall atmosphere you want for your day. From crisp fall foliage to snowy mountain winters and mild summer coastlines, each season offers a very different experience.
Much of this planning happens well before your elopement day so you’re not managing decisions, timelines, or logistics in the moment.
Spring (March to May)
Spring in New Hampshire begins slowly, especially in the mountains. March and early April often feel more like late winter, with temperatures starting around 40–50°F and gradually warming to 60–70°F by May.
Spring showers are common, but they bring fresh greenery, blooming trees, and flowing waterfalls. Late spring is a great option for couples who want fewer crowds and softer, natural colors.
Best for: Emerging greenery, waterfalls, quieter trails, fewer tourists
Summer (June to August)
Summer offers the warmest temperatures, typically ranging from 70–80°F, though humidity can be noticeable and heat waves do happen. Long daylight hours make it easy to plan full, adventure-filled elopement days.
This is also the busiest season, especially in popular mountain and coastal areas. Early mornings, weekdays, or less-traveled locations work well if you want a more private experience.
Best for: Hiking, lakes, coastal elopements, long days, vibrant greens
Fall (September to November)
Fall is one of the most popular times to elope in New Hampshire. Temperatures often stay in the 60s and 70s in early fall before cooling into the 30s and 40s by November.
The state is especially known for fall foliage, with peak colors typically arriving between late September and mid-October, depending on elevation. Because of its popularity, lodging and permits often book quickly during this season.
Best for: Fall foliage, scenic drives, cooler hiking weather, classic New England scenery
Winter (December to February)
Winter elopements in New Hampshire offer a quiet and intimate experience, especially in the White Mountains. Average temperatures range from 20–35°F, with colder conditions at higher elevations.
Snow-covered landscapes create a dramatic backdrop, and winter often comes with fewer crowds and lower lodging costs. Flexibility is important, as weather and road conditions can change quickly.
Best for: Snowy landscapes, privacy, cozy cabins, winter adventure
Where to Elope in New Hampshire
New Hampshire offers an incredible range of elopement locations, from mountain overlooks and alpine lakes to historic estates and coastal scenery. Because the state is relatively small, it is easy to experience very different landscapes without long drive times, which gives couples more flexibility when building their elopement timeline.
Location selection is one of the most impactful parts of an elopement day, which is why my couples don’t choose from a list alone. I help narrow locations based on season, privacy, logistics, and how the day needs to flow — not just how a place looks in photos.
Below are some of the most scenic and elopement-friendly areas in New Hampshire. These locations work well for intimate ceremonies, low-impact celebrations, and experience-driven elopements that feel personal rather than crowded
National Parks
New Hampshire does not have a designated national park, but it offers extensive protected land through state parks, national forests, and historic sites that are well suited for elopements.
State Parks
New Hampshire’s state parks are some of the most diverse in New England. They include mountain peaks, lakeshores, waterfalls, beaches, and historic landmarks. Many parks allow small ceremonies with permits, while others are best suited for portraits or quiet moments paired with a nearby ceremony location.
These parks are a great fit if you want:
Accessible locations with scenic payoff
Short hikes or overlooks
Nearby lodging and amenities
Many of New Hampshire’s most scenic ceremony locations are located within state parks. If you’re considering one of these areas for your elopement, you may find it helpful to read How to Elope in a State Park, which walks through permit requirements, guest considerations, and how to plan a low-impact ceremony that respects park regulations.
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Ahern State Park
Androscoggin Wayside Park
Bear Brook State Park
Beaver Brook Falls Wayside
Bedell Bridge State Historic Site
Cardigan Mountain State Park
Cathedral Ledge State Park
Chesterfield Gorge Natural Area
Clough State Park
Coleman State Park
Connecticut Lakes Headwaters Working Forest
Crawford Notch State Park
Dixville Notch State Park
Echo Lake State Park
Ellacoya State Park
Flume Gorge
Forest Lake State Park
Franconia Notch State Park
Gardner Memorial Wayside Park
Greenfield State Park
Hampton Beach State Park
Jenness State Beach
Jericho Mountain State Park
Kingston State Park
Lake Francis State Park
Lake Tarleton State Park
Livermore Falls Recreation Area
Madison Boulder Natural Area
Milan Hill State Park
Miller State Park
Mollidgewock State Park
Monadnock State Park
Mollidgewock State Park
Moose Brook State Park
Mount Sunapee State Park
Mt. Washington State Park
Nansen Wayside Park
North Beach
North Hampton State Park
Northwood Meadows State Park
Odiorne Point State Park
Pawtuckaway State Park
Pillsbury State Park
Pisgah State Park
Rhododendron State Park
Rollins State Park
Rye Harbor State Park
Sculptured Rocks Natural Area
Silver Lake State Park
South Beach - Hampton Beach State Park
Umbagog Lake State Park
Wadleigh State Park
Wallis Sands State Park
Weeks State Park & The John Wingate Weeks Historic Site
Wellington State Park
Wentworth State Park
White Lake State Park
Winslow State Park
New Hampshire is also home to several beautiful waterfall locations that can be incorporated into an elopement day, whether for your ceremony, portraits, or a quiet moment together. For inspiration, you can explore Waterfall Wedding Venues: Best Waterfalls in Each State, which highlights some of the most scenic waterfall locations across New Hampshire and beyond.
White Mountain National Forest & Forest Service Land:
The White Mountain National Forest is one of the most popular elopement regions in New Hampshire. It offers rugged mountain terrain, alpine ridgelines, scenic highways, and remote-feeling wilderness areas.
This area is ideal for couples who value:
Mountain scenery and dramatic views
Seclusion and minimal crowds
Adventure-focused elopements with hiking or scenic drives
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White Mountain National Forest
Presidential Range
Kancamagus Highway (NH Route 112)
Franconia Ridge
Pemigewasset Wilderness
Crawford Notch
Greeley Ponds Scenic Area
Waterville Valley
Sandwich Range
Mount Moosilauke
Wild River Wilderness
Bureau of Land Management:
BLM does not manage land in New Hampshire.
Unique Stays in New Hampshire
Where you stay can become part of your elopement experience, especially for getting ready photos, slow mornings, or a private celebration afterward.
New Hampshire offers a variety of unique stays, including:
A-frame cabins and mountain chalets
Secluded forest retreats
Coastal homes and historic inns
These accommodations work especially well for couples planning multi-day elopements or elopements that blend ceremony and honeymoon-style travel.
Most Popular Elopement Locations in New Hampshire
Artists Bluff in Franconia Notch State Park
Cathedral Ledge in the White Mountains
Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods
Castle in the Clouds in Moultonborough
Where to Visit for Unique Photos in New Hampshire
One of the biggest advantages of eloping in New Hampshire is the freedom to step away from the most photographed locations and explore quieter, lesser-known areas. These spots add variety and personality to your gallery while keeping the experience intimate.
Remember, these are just a few examples. I share additional locations privately during the planning process based on your vision, season, and accessibility needs.
Greenfield State Park
Forested trails, a peaceful lake, and softer scenery that works well for relaxed portraits and slower moments.Weeks State Park
A historic estate with gardens, mountain views, and woodland paths that feel quiet and understated.Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park
Refined gardens, classical sculptures, and historic architecture that add a different texture to your gallery.Madame Sherri Forest
The stone ruins of a hand-built castle hidden in the woods, offering a moody, story-driven setting that feels completely unexpected.
If photography is a high priority for you, choosing locations that offer variety rather than just popularity can make a big difference in how your story is documented.
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 New Hampshire?
Eloping in New Hampshire can be surprisingly flexible when it comes to budget. Some couples choose a simple, nature-focused day, while others invest in a multi-day experience with upgraded lodging, vendors, and activities.
Below are two realistic examples to show what couples typically spend when eloping in New Hampshire.
If you want a deeper breakdown of what typically impacts elopement pricing beyond location, you may find it helpful to read How Much Should I Budget for an Elopement? This guide walks through common cost variables like coverage length, lodging, travel, and vendor priorities so you can build a budget that actually aligns with your vision.
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This example reflects a simple, intentional elopement with a focus on nature and minimal logistics.
$60 — 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: $7,260
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This example reflects a more elevated experience with upgraded lodging, extended coverage, and additional vendors.
marriage license — $60
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
State Park Park permit fee — $200
Total: $19,710
A Quick Note on Budget Flexibility
Most couples fall somewhere between these two examples. One of the biggest advantages of eloping in New Hampshire is the ability to prioritize what matters most to you, whether that means photography, a multi-day experience, upgraded lodging, or keeping things beautifully simple.
Current Specials for New Hampshire Bookings
If you’re planning an elopement in New Hampshire and are flexible with your date or coverage needs, I occasionally offer limited-time booking incentives.
These specials may include:
Reduced rates for select dates
Added coverage time
Seasonal or off-peak incentives
Because availability and offers change, the best way to stay up to date is through my newsletter.
New Hampshire Elopement Packages
My New Hampshire elopement experiences are designed for couples who want planning support, location expertise, timeline design, and contingency planning handled well in advance — not photography coverage alone.
Your elopement experience is fully customized from the very beginning. All New Hampshire elopement packages include:
All travel within New Hampshire (your investment does not change based on location)
Personalized location recommendations based on season, accessibility, and your vision
Permit research and guidance, including site-specific considerations and low-impact ceremony requirements (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 New Hampshire 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 to explore and hold your ceremony in White Mountain National Forest or along the coastline and on day 2 unwind in charming towns like Portsmouth or Hanover.
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.
This approach allows couples to stay present on their day, knowing the logistics, locations, and pacing have already been thoughtfully handled in advance.
New Hampshire Elopement Checklist
Planning an elopement in New Hampshire can feel simple once you know what steps to take. This checklist is designed to keep everything organized without overcomplicating the process.
This all-in-one elopement checklist helps you:
Narrow down locations based on season, accessibility, and privacy
Understand permit requirements for parks, forests, and historic sites
Book vendors that align with your priorities
Build a timeline that feels relaxed and intentional
Prepare for travel, lodging, and day-of logistics
Whether you’re eloping in New Hampshire or somewhere completely different, this checklist walks you through the planning process step by step so nothing important is missed.
Unique Things to Do in New Hampshire
One of the best parts of eloping in New Hampshire is how easy it is to turn your wedding day into a meaningful getaway. Many couples choose to blend their elopement with a short honeymoon or extended trip, taking advantage of the state’s mix of mountains, lakes, coastlines, and historic towns.
If you’re considering extending your celebration beyond the ceremony, New Hampshire also fits naturally into conversations about the Best Places to Honeymoon in the U.S., especially for couples who value slower travel, scenic variety, and intimate experiences.
Visit the Andres Institute of Art and Sculpture Garden
Explore outdoor sculptures spread across wooded trails and hilltops. This is a great option for couples who enjoy art, quiet walks, and creative settings.
Visit Cat Alley
A small but charming stop in downtown Portsmouth that adds a playful, local touch to your day or post-elopement celebrations.
Explore the Ponemah Bog Wildlife Sanctuary
A peaceful boardwalk trail through wetlands and forest, ideal for a calm, nature-forward experience without a long hike.
Visit the Smith Chapel
This historic chapel is only viewable from the exterior unless a permit is obtained. It works well as a portrait stop or symbolic location for couples drawn to historic architecture.
Visit the Church of the Woods
An active religious property surrounded by forest. Couples interested in holding a ceremony here should reach out directly to learn about availability and requirements.
Visit the Castle in the Clouds
A historic estate with lake and mountain views that pairs beautifully with a refined, New England–style elopement or celebration.
New Hampshire Elopement Timeline Examples
Your timeline plays a major role in how your elopement feels. Below are two examples that show how a New Hampshire elopement can unfold over a single day or across multiple days.
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9 - 11 am: Breakfast Together, Enjoying Coffee with a View
11 am - 2 pm: Hair & Makeup/Getting Ready Together
2:30 pm: Depart from Presidential Mountain Resort to Franconia Notch State Park
(15 minute commute)
2:50 pm: Arrive at Echo Lake
3 pm: Take the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tram (8 minute ride)
3 - 4 pm: Enjoy the Aerial Views from the Top of Cannon Mountain
4 pm: Take the Tram back down to Echo Lake
4:15 - 5:45 pm: Enjoy a Picnic on the Shore of Echo Lake with Champagne and Cupcakes
6 pm: Arrive at Artist Bluff Trail (1.5 miles)
6 - 8:30 pm: Hike to the summit of Bald Mountain, Ceremony overlooking Echo Lake, Couples portraits with astounding 360 mountain views watching the sunset from the summit of Bald Mountain
9 pm: Return back to Presidential Mountain Resort to relax and unwind after your elopement day
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On Day 1:
9 - 11 am: Breakfast Together, Enjoying Coffee with a View
11am - 2pm: Hair & Makeup/Getting Ready Together
2:15pm: Facetime Family & Friends
2:45pm: Depart to Iron Mountain Trail
10 minute commute to Trail from Jackson, NH
3 pm: Arrive at Trail
3:15 pm: Begin Hike (4.4 miles)
3:15 - 7:15 pm: Hiking with Couples Portraits on Trail; Stopping for Ceremony
7:30 pm: Head back to Airbnb for Dinner Prepared by a Private Chef
10 minute commute to Airbnb
7:45 pm: Freshen Up, Change Outfits if Necessary
8 - 9:30 pm: Enjoy a Private Dinner
On Day 2:
10 am - 1 pm: Slow morning getting ready together at lodging, coffee + Breakfast
1:00 pm: Depart lodging in Jackson, NH to Emerald Pool Trailhead
(~17 minute commute)
1:20 pm: Arrive at trailhead and Begin Hike to Emerald Pool
(1.9 miles RT)
2:00 - 4:30 pm: Arrive at Emerald Pool, enjoy the cool water and have a picnic on the bank while listening to the falls
4:30 pm: Begin the return hike to trailhead and depart back to Jackson for a relaxed evening
Get Inspired by Other Elopements
Explore real elopement stories and galleries to see how other couples have crafted meaningful days across the U.S.
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 New Hampshire 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
Eloping in New Hampshire is a unique kind of elopement. It includes historical sites, Victorian architecture, and small and intimate towns, all complimented by centuries-old houses and cobblestone roads. If you ever watched Jumanji or Golden Girls growing up, you might remember how cute the towns and neighborhoods were. Although not exclusively in New Hampshire, these popular movies adequately showcase what I mean when I say New Hampshire is quaint and nostalgic, mixed with limited government, no taxes, and iconic seafood; what’s not to love?
Do you think New Hampshire might be 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?
