A 2023 Guide to Eloping in the Berkshires
Hey there! I’m DiAnna, your neighborhood-friendly Berkshires elopement photographer! There’s something about the Berkshires that I melt into with such an obsession and appreciation. No matter the season or location, this Western Massachusetts area offers a little to everyone. From historic villages to sweeping mountain ranges, this entire area is enchanting.
If you’re planning a Berkshires, MA elopement, I’m happy to say I’ve created a guide to planning the elopement that should have endless information—well, not entirely endless—that will definitely help you get a step-up in the planning process.
What are the Berkshires
Let me tell you about the Berkshires in Massachusetts! It's like stepping into a dreamy wonderland tucked away in the western part of the state. Think of it as a picturesque paradise with rolling hills, charming towns, and a cultural scene that'll make your heart sing. Whimsical! Yes! I am just yelling that word without a proper sentence.
The Berkshires are a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. You can hike along scenic trails, where every turn unveils breathtaking views. And when fall rolls around, oh my, you'll be treated to a stunning display of vibrant colors that'll take your breath away. If you're into water activities, grab a kayak and paddle in peaceful lakes or cast your fishing line in meandering rivers. The beauty of nature here is simply awe-inspiring.
But wait, there's more! The Berkshires are a hub of artistic and cultural delights. You'll find incredible art museums like Mass MoCa (omgosh set aside a whole day for this one alone it’s my personal favorite!) the Clark Art Institute, where you can immerse yourself in fascinating collections. Smith College and the plethora of smaller galleries sprinkled around North Hampton are *chefs kiss*
Music lovers, hold onto your hats because the Tanglewood Music Center hosts amazing music festivals, including the renowned Boston Symphony Orchestra's summer residency. Bishop’s lounge, The Drake, Mass MoCa (again), and places like Tree House Brewing have sick shows by awesome bands all the time.
Now, let's talk about the towns. They're like something out of a storybook. Great Barrington and Williamstown are two of the cutest little towns you'll ever encounter. Picture historic buildings, charming shops, and cozy cafes where you can grab a cup of joe and soak up the friendly vibes. Oh, and don't be surprised if you stumble upon a local theater that'll whisk you away to a world of enchantment. I am for sure partial to North Hampton, East Hampton and the surrounding rural magic that hold them!
The Berkshires are a true gem where you can indulge in outdoor adventures, soak in cultural wonders, and experience the warmth of charming communities. It's a destination that's straight out of a fairytale, and I promise you'll fall in love with every inch of it.
Best Season to Elope in the Berkshires
While Massachusetts’ seasons are all unique, that’s what makes it so special. First, you’ll need to decide what kind of backdrop you want for your wedding photography. You’ll also want to decide if any form of outdoor adventure is required. You aren’t going to want to visit an iced-over lake if you dream of green leaves.
Eloping in the Winter
There can be something truly special about winter in the Berkshires. If you elope in the winter, this can be even better, as who wouldn’t want to have snowflake-tipped kisses and the crisp scent of snow? Of course, there are some things to consider.
Tips for a winter Elopement in the Berkshires
If you have to hike, make sure to wear appropriate clothing.
Bring hand warmers! In fact, invest in a heated jacket. They’re absolutely worth it!
Fill a thermos with something tasty and hot. How cute would those photos be?
Consider getting a permit to light a fire somewhere. Also, hella cute photos!
Eloping in the Spring
Like anywhere else nowadays, spring is unpredictable. Is it going to be cold today? Hot? Maybe both? If you’re comfortable with getting married with the possibility of undesirable weather, you might want to consider waiting until summer. But if you do get that dreamy, perfect day, it’ll all be worth it!
Tips for a Spring Elopement
Bring an umbrella
Make sure to pack towels, just in case
Waterproof makeup for afternoon showers!
Eloping in the Summer
Summer on the east coast can be so dreamy, with perfect temps and long summer days. Summer months are June, July, and August. Since we get four distinct seasons, mostly, it’s definitely a good idea to keep that in mind. A downside to summer, though, is that tourist season begins at the end of May. If you’re looking for a scene with less crowds and onlookers, you might want to avoid this season.
Tips for a Summer Elopement
Wear sunscreen - even if you don’t wear makeup a sunscreen makeup setting spray is great to carry with you!
Hydrate!
Consider sunrise for your ceremony—far less people at most places
A change of clothes because personally I have a 5+ year wish list of seeing one of my couples jump into a body of water. Okay okay fine. This one isn’t really part of the list.
Eloping in the Fall
It’s an explosion of color! Yellows, oranges, reds, and browns. Crisp air to fill your lungs. Plus, all of the festivities that fill the weekend calendar, like apple picking or going to a harvest festival. Sure, the days can definitely be unexpectedly chilly, but the scenery is to die for!
Tips for a Fall Elopement:
Bring a jacket in case it’s unexpectedly chilly
Fill a thermos with hot apple cider, to really sink into the experience
Consider going to do something festive, like a festival, for a unique backdrop
Getting your marriage license in Massachusetts
When it comes to getting married, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First off, you'll want to be ready to share some important documents like your birth certificate or passport to prove your age. You'll also need to provide your Social Security number. Oh, and if you and your partner are planning to change your last names, don't forget to let them know what your new name(s) will be. If you’re LGBTQ+, or just more feminist leaning, consider creating your own last name together! Some people do this and love it.
Now, let's talk about the paperwork. There's a license fee involved, but don't worry, it varies depending on where you are, usually falling somewhere between $25 and $50. It's good to have that budgeted in advance.
One thing to note is that there's often a little waiting period after you apply for your license. It's typically around three days, but hey, you might be able to skip it if you fill out an extra application. Still, it's always a good idea to plan ahead and not leave things to the last minute.
Once you get your hands on that precious license, it's valid for a nice 60-day period. So, make sure you schedule your big day within that timeframe.
TL;DR on Getting Hitched in the Berkshires
Head down to the city or town clerk and apply
Make sure you and your boo are there together
Pay around $50-$100 on the license
Wait three more days (the horror!)
Find an officiant
Do you need a witness at your Berkshires wedding?
Thankfully, so things are easier, you don’t!
Who Can Officiate an Elopement in the Berkshires?
You can totally find a local wedding officiant, a Justice of the Peace (JOP) or find an ordained Minister. If this ain’t your thang, then a friend can step in and apply for a 1-Day designation license. Need more info? Head over the the Mass.gov site for more information and guidelines.
(I work with a small group of really amazing officiants that would rock this for you!)
Best Spots for Getting Married in the Berkshires
Finding the perfect elopement location in the Berkshires will be daunting, simply because there are so many options! You have the options of lakes, endless trees on the Appalachian Trail, mountain tops, sanctuaries, and even quaint historic towns that will tempt you.
Berkshires Elopement at a Waterfall
When it comes to waterfalls in the Berkshires, take your pick! Nothing represents love like the roaring, demanding pulse of rushing water. The air tastes and smells like moss, wood, and fresh air. Imagine taking a deep breath and feeling nothing but nature in and around you. So dreamy!
Some waterfalls in the Berkshires:
Campbell Falls
Bash Bish Falls
The Cascade
Eloping on A Lake in the Berkshires
Bobbing piers. The lapping of water at the land’s edge. Birds flitting and singing. Getting married on a lake in the Berkshires will be a memorable experience. Some lakes even offer overnight accommodations, allowing you to create even more memories at the lake you decide to get hitched at.
Some lakes in the Berkshires:
Silver lake
Lake Garfield Beach
Big Pond
Mountain Elopements in the Berkshires
You’ll already feel on top of the world—why not make that literal? Getting married on a mountain in the Berkshires will be a perfect experience for you and your partner. Even though some mountain tops require a hike—bring a change of clothes!—it’s all worth it at the end. With the quiet breeze and lazy hawks watching from above, you can’t beat this experience.
Some mountains in the Berkshires:
Mount Greylock (90 miles of views up top!)
Wachusett Mountain State Reservation (you can drive straight to the summit with beautiful 360 views)
Stony Ledge Trail
Cheshire Cobbles
Mount Holyoke
Skinner State Park
Mount Sugar Loaf
How Long Can an Elopement Day Be?
Honestly, this is really up to you. How long do you want to spend having the best day ever? On average, for just two people (plus photographer and officiant), you can keep it to less than three hours. With guests, you’ll probably want to plan a dinner afterward, so expect around five hours (not including getting-ready time).
Planning a wedding in the Berkshires can be such a wonderful experience. No matter the season or location you pick, you’re bound to have a memorable day. And, of course, if you hit me up to chat about photographing and helping plan your Berkshires Elopement here in Western MA. Let’s do this thing!
How to Choose An LGBT-friendly Wedding Photographer in 7 Easy Steps
Congrats! You and your dream babe have finally said, "Hell yea!” As the details and planning piles up, there's one decision that is super duper important: choosing the right LGBT wedding photographer. After all, these photographs will be cherished for a lifetime, preserving the beautiful memories of your big day. In this article, we'll walk you through the process of selecting the perfect queer (friendly) wedding photographer, making sure that your vision is brought to life and your story is captured in the most perfect way possible, while keeping inclusivity in mind.
Keep in mind that when finding your dream LGBT photographer, that it's important, above all, to find someone you're truly comfortable with and is a true ally.
Know Your Budget
Sitting down with your partner and discussing what the exact budget for your wedding will be, and break it down by wedding vendor. Also, don’t be afraid to be open and honest about these hard lines with your vendors.
Define Your Style
Every rad couple like yourself has a unique vision for their wedding, and finding a photographer whose style aligns with yours is essential. Take some time to explore different photography genres, such as traditional, candid, fine art, or documentary. Do you prefer vibrant and bold images or a more soft and romantic feel? By identifying your style, you can narrow down your search and find a photographer who specializes in creating the kind of imagery you envision. And one super hot tip for finding a professional wedding photog is asking to see FULL galleries past clients received! At for at least 3.
As a reference, mine would probably be defined as moody, bold, and vibrant.
A Quick Rundown of Types of Wedding Photography Styles
Reportage Wedding Photography
You probably already know this one as a photojournalistic or documentary photography style. These kinds of photographers focus on staying in the background and capturing things as they unfold. They seek out the genuine and candid moments...no matter how raw they might be. But it's definitely considered an authentic style.
Traditional Wedding Photography
For those that are into classic anything, this photography style is probably right up your ally. Most of these photos will focus on being staged/posed, with conventional group shots. This was the most common style for years, before digital photography made it easier to delete the "uglies."
Contemporary Wedding Photography
This is allllll about the drama and bringing out the most unique moments and types of shots. This can include more fashion and editorial portraits and often needs more time to visualize and execute. You definitely want to see full galleries for photographers that fall under this category, as they can often only focus on a couple "hero" shots, but the rest of the wedding might be different.
Light and Airy
Often film photographers (although some digital photographers will shoot like this), this is often blown out highlights and just all around brighter like the name sugests. A lot of us have moved away from only film as the cost for film is astronomical.
Choosing a Personality
It’s super important you vibe check with your photographer — I mean, we are with you most of your super special day! Do you want someone who might end up on the dance floor showing off some super lame moves, telling bad jokes, and bringing a positive energy to the day?
(FYI for an extra fee I can show up in a black beret, quietly choking on a cigarette and waving you on to show me what you’ve got with a fake French accent wile shooting only black and white polaroids on a tripod)
Research and Review Portfolios
Now that you have a clearer idea of your dream style, it's time to dive into the nitty gritty. While searching through portfolios look for consistency in their work, paying attention to their ability to capture emotions, details, and the overall atmosphere of weddings. A talented wedding photographer will have a well-rounded portfolio that showcases their versatility and creative eye. Take note of the photographs that resonate with you, as this will guide you towards finding the right fit.
15 Questions to Ask a Wedding Photographer
How long have you been in business?
How many queer weddings have you shot?
If you aren’t part of the LGBT+ community, do you consider yourself an active ally?
How many have you done that are like what mine will be?
Are you comfortable taking control on the day?
Do you have experience using flash?
Can I give you shot list?
Be frfr what’s your favorite part of the day?
Will you be the photographer on my wedding day?
Will you be photographing any other event the same day?
Can you tell me about the deposit and possible payment plans?
What is your refund policy?
What’s the best meme you’ve seen recently?
Do you charge a travel fee?
Is it really your dream to have a couple jump into a pool at the end of the night?
What kind of editing do you offer?
How long will it take to get my images back?
Will you be sneaking our deseerts in a corner like an awkward gremlin somewhere? That’s weird will you just have one like a normal person please?
Will you give me digital images? Are there additional fees afterwards for all of them?
Have you ever worked with my videographer, coordinator, etc.?
Seek Recommendations and Read Reviews
Asking for recommendations from friends, family, or recently married couples can provide valuable insights and personal experiences. They can recommend photographers they love working with, ensuring that you receive trustworthy and honest feedback. Additionally, explore online review platforms and wedding forums where couples share their experiences. Reading reviews will give you a broader perspective on a photographer's professionalism, communication skills, and the quality of their work. It's essential to find someone who delivers stunning images and is personable enough to make you feel comfortable on your big day.
Arrange a Meeting
Once you've narrowed down your dream options to a select few, it's time to send them a message on their Contact page. This meeting is a fantastic opportunity to assess their personality, professionalism, and whether you share a connection. Remember, your photographer will be with you throughout the wedding day, so it's crucial to feel at ease in their presence. Discuss your vision, ask questions about their experience, and inquire about their availability and pricing. A skilled photographer will listen attentively and offer suggestions to bring your ideas to life. Trust your instincts and choose someone who understands and values your unique love story.
Evaluate Packages and Pricing:
Before making your final decision on a queer wedding photographer, carefully review the packages and pricing offered by each photographer. Determine if their packages align with your budget and the services needed. Don't hesitate to ask questions about the number of hours of coverage, additional fees, printing options, and image delivery timeline. Clear communication about expectations and costs will help avoid any surprises later on. Remember, your wedding photographer is an investment in capturing memories, so prioritize quality over cost.
Quick Tips for Choosing an LGBTQ-Friendly Wedding Photographer:
Start your search early to secure your preferred photographer as they tend to book quickly.
Ask to see full wedding albums to ensure consistent quality throughout an event.
Inquire about backup plans in case of any unforeseen circumstances on your wedding day.
Discuss copyrights and usage rights to avoid any future complications.
Sign a contract that outlines all the terms and conditions of your agreement, ensuring both parties are protected.
Choosing the perfect wedding photographer is a crucial step in creating the kind of moments you’ll remember forever. By defining your style, researching portfolios, seeking recommendations, meeting and connecting with photographers, and evaluating packages, and most importantly making sure they are a true ally or active part of your community you'll be well on your way to finding the ideal photographer who can capture the essence of your love story. Remember, your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and your photographer plays a significant role in preserving those moments. So take your time, do your research, and trust your instincts. When you find the right photographer, you'll feel confident that they can capture the emotions, beauty, and joy of your wedding day in a way that resonates with you.
With the right photographer by your side, you can relax and enjoy every moment of your wedding, knowing that the memories will be beautifully captured for years to come. So, go ahead and rock on!
2017 Favorites
There isn't enough blog pages in the world to cover this years favorites! Here is just a glimpse of a few. <3
Erica + Danny // Saratoga Wedding
Planner: Bisou Weddings and Event
Photo: Our Two Heart
Video: Ben Plis
Caterer: Mazzone Hospitalit
DJ: Love of Music D
Cake: Make Me a Cake Next Door
Jona + Taylor // Surprise Elopement - Troy NY
Jona + Taylor
Hair: Ruby Jay
Makeup: Erica Sherman
Venue: Pecks, The Tavern
Dress: True North Bridal // Daughters of Simone
Flowers: Flower Scout
2016 Wedding Favorites <3
Okay okay, let me start by saying there is no way I have the time right now, or the internet bandwidth to post ALL of my favorites! I wish I could!! Here is just a little sample of some of my favorite 2016 Weddings and Engagements.
My heart is just exploding posting these, bringing back SO many good memories! Some of these give me chills thinking about the love and grace that was present! 2016 had celebrations where the joy was abundant, The food was delish, the music way danceable, and the love was indescribably awesome!
The real reason our friends won't visit us! || Guest room makeover
The real reason our NY and OH friends haven't visited us MUST be because our guest room looks like the saddest emptiest room ever. I get it y'all! The "guest room" is also where I do work on the days I don't head to the co-working space. It's also where I spend early mornings drinking tea, and writing the to-do list for the day ahead. SO. It was time for a makeover.
I knew I wanted something a little colorful and fresh and fun, but still adult and a natural vibe. Deny Designs had the PERFECT selection for this, and honestly, I can't wait to use some of their magic to help revive our living room, bathroom, and the bedroom!
I love this inky look of this set! It literally makes the whole room! I also paired it with a little wooden vanity, and a full length mirror, with a backlight to keep the vibe chill and calm.
So, how does it ACTUALLY fair? What do Sunday mornings feel like with this set? Well, it's sister, and cat approved, and is especially cozy when mixed with coffee in bed. #sundayfeels #coffeeandcats
P.s. Friends, this room has direct views of downtown, the mountains and the sunset, and it would be even better if you were here! We love guests, so come and enjoy Denver! :D
Goodbye and thank you 2016.
This is one of my favorite songs, and this is what I listened to while writing this. It has that bitter sweetness of 2016 in it!
Damn. I keep typing this up, and then virtually crumbling it into a digital ball and starting over. It's hard to find the right voice. It's hard to convey the bittersweet feeling this year has left me.
It was hard, and it's hard for me to admit that. It's my nature to focus on the positive --- but sometimes, in order to show yourself how beautiful the good is, you have to contrast it to the rest.
I was really sick... a lot. Like, crawling to the bathroom --- crying, and Roy holding a cup to my mouth so I could drink water. Medicine that made the pain better, but made my hair thin and covered my face in a redness and adult acne. I answered emails from bed. When I traveled, at times I was so nauseated that I would spend HOURS gagging and dry heaving in the TINY airplane bathroom, in tears. I was living in a new city, and stuck at home.
(I'm feeling pretty damn great now, just FYI, so NO worries these are just reflections from the year)
I was so lonely for my family, my heart sometimes felt like it would explode. Moving to a new place is hard — I just wanted those ride-or-die friends from back home where I could show up to brunch in a ugly sweatshirt and be real. It felt hard to meet new people while being so sick, and traveling so often (and working from home!)
I got through it all. It did not break me. And I feel stronger than ever! Bring it on, I can handle it, I promise. The things that got me through this year are what I'm going to focus on when I look back and remember 2016.
Betsy having dinner and ice cream delivered to my house, on one of the hardest days. Letting me know I am never without love and support.
The bouquet of fresh flowers delivered with the sweetest words of gratitude from a couple, that arrived just on time --- it turned a crappy day into a awesome one and reminded me why I love what I do.
New Orleans! Shooting the wedding of a childhood friend, a friend who’s parents cared for us like we were their own. It was surreal. We took a few extra days there, to explore --- it was hands down amazing, and not what I expected. I assumed the scene there is all drinking and partying - and instead I found a warm, delicious, music-filled city with weirdos like me.
Las Vegas! We needed that get-away. It was a quick trip, but beautiful. We drove through the desert, danced in old Vegas, and walked along the Hoover dam.
FINALLY being able to go on the road trip that my best friend, Sen and I had been planning forever! It was her done-with-nursing-school-and-look-at-this-awesome-life-I-have-made-all-on-my-own celebration! I'm so proud of her, and lucky to have her as my friend. #glamping #danceeverywhere #bathingsuitlife
Getting to Experience Colorado through our couples love stories! Telluride. Aspen. Grand Junction. Gunnison. Salida. The Grand Mesa. Twin lakes. Manitou Springs. Black Hawk. Nederland. Estes Park. Loveland. Fort Collins. The list of amazing places goes on and on --- who new they could all exist in a single state!
Riding a bike to the grocery store, and being able to walk to my favorite coffee shop!
Meeting Anna. And Liz. And Ashley. And Grant. And Mia. And so many others. Most recently finding a place at Union 27 --- an awesome new co-working space, filled with the warmest most talented people!
Betsy marrying Mitch! She made a really good choice there, and so did he. We already know how I feel about Betsy - but Mitch is one of my best friends. I can't wait to grow old alongside them!
There were countless joyful moments with our couples! Literally crying and laughing with a couple after their engagement session, as we off-roaded in their insane truck. Shooting the reception for, and playing on the rooftop of another photographer, who I admire greatly! Seeing a couple pray together, separated by a wall --- crying because the love and grace surrounding them was to strong that day. Met about a million pets. Played in the sunrise, with couples willing to get up at 4am. Saw a couple dance at the base of a canyon, while wearing cat shoes. Walked through a forest in sub-zero weather to get the perfect winter shot for an adventurous couple. Eating donuts, tacos, a million hot chocolates --- and sharing stories with so many amazing people. Oh, and I gave exactly ONE MILLION hugs.
"SEE SELF??? 2016 was dang AMAZING, and don't you forget it!" So with that... Goodbye 2016, and thank you so so so so so much. You treated me so well, I just needed to stop and remember that.
Coffee + Sunsets // Denver CO
What can I say - I LOVE checking out new coffee shops. If you have something to drink and wifi I am there.
Because I am always checking out new places, I've decided I will start sharing some of my favorites. TBH I wouldn't ever work here again (it's def more of a grab a coffee and go kind of place) But, hello, it has coffee and flowers! COFFEE AND FLOWERS.
And, it looked really nice under a sunset. Def check it out.
