Is Sunrise or Sunset Really the Best Time of Day to Elope? Let’s Settle This Once and for All
Let’s be honest — you’re probably here because you typed “best time of day to elope? sunrise or sunset?” at 2am while stress-snacking on leftover cake. (Been there. Zero regrets.)
You’ve got Pinterest boards full of misty mountain sunrises in Acadia and golden hour cliffs in the White Mountains, but you can’t exactly have both without a time machine. So — let’s break it down, without the silly nonsense. I’ll share my honest take (I’ve photographed enough sleepy sunrises and rowdy sunset wedding ceremonies to earn that right, trust me).
Why the Best Time of Day to Get Married Matters More Than You Think
You’re not just picking a pretty light.
You’re deciding…
- How you’ll feel all day
- What your timeline looks like
How your wedding pictures at sunrise or wedding pictures at sunset will turn out (spoiler: both are stunning — but in wildly different ways)
Basically, light sets the vibe. And vibes matter.
The Case for a Sunrise Wedding Ceremony
Why we all love a good sunrise moment:
- Zero crowds. Think you two, maybe an owl, and me third-wheeling with coffee.
- Light is soft, pastel-y, and romantic AF — perfect for moody mountain or coastal wedding at sunrise.
- You get the whole day afterward. I’ve seen couples hike down and immediately hit a breakfast bar or hot tub. Iconic.
A few downsides to consider:
- It’s…early. Like, early early. Think 3am alarms, headlamps, and your hairstylist bribed with donuts.
- Cold. Sometimes brutally so — especially here in New England.
- You’ve gotta be okay with a messy getting-ready timeline (sometimes it’s just throwing on your gear in the dark).
A Sunrise Elopement is Perfect For:
My free-spirited, roll-with-it couples (looking at you, May + Eric) who’d rather share vows with the sunrise behind the mountain and a thermos of Irish coffee in hand.
If you’re imagining mountain tops and coastal cliffs bathed in early morning light, check out the 8 Best Places to Elope in New England.
The Beauty of a Sunset Wedding Ceremony
Who doesn’t love a sunset ceremony?
- That rich, golden glow everyone swoons over? This is it. Wedding pictures at sunset are pure cinema.
- You can chill all day. Sleep in, snack, get ready without panicking about missing your sunrise window.
- Warmer temps — especially if you’re eloping somewhere with unpredictable mountain breezes.
A few downsides to consider:
- Crowds. Especially at iconic overlooks — you might share your moment with a dude in cargo shorts and a selfie stick. (Or maybe not, it is 2025 after all, but you get the point.)
- Light fades fast. You need a tight plan to catch that golden hour and twilight.
A Sunset Elopement is Perfect For:
My sunset lovers who want to pop champagne as the sun dips below the horizon — maybe even have a post-ceremony picnic and a tiny dance party under the stars? – I’m down.
Sunrise vs Sunset Photos: What’s the Difference, Really?
Sunrise photos: Dreamy pastels, cool blues, sometimes fog or morning mist. Think ethereal.
Sunset photos: Warm, golden, dramatic — oranges, pinks, deep shadows. Think romantic and bold.
Both rock. It’s just about which vibe screams you.
How to Decide the Best Time of Day to Elope (Without Overthinking It to Death)
Ask yourself:
- Are we morning people?
Be honest. Do you actually want to get up at 3am? - Do we want privacy?
Fewer people = sunrise. Period. - What’s our location like?
Some spots look best facing east (sunrise) — others west (sunset behind mountain = total vibes). - Do we have an epic breakfast or dinner plan?
Some couples say vows at sunrise, nap, then celebrate with a sunset picnic. Who says you can’t have both?
Want to infuse more you into your timing choice? Explore 11 Non‑Traditional Things to Do at Your Wedding [or Elopement].
My Personal Take as Your New Hampshire Elopement Photographer
I’m not here to push you one way or the other. My job — whether it’s a sunrise wedding or a sunset wedding — is to make sure you’re actually present. That means I’ll handle the timeline, keep tabs on the light, and make sure you don’t accidentally miss the sun and your sanity.
If you want my super honest take?
- For New Hampshire mountain elopements: Sunrise is truly perfection (privacy and soft mountain light).
- For coastal New England: Sunset is unbeatable (the ocean gobbles up the sun in the prettiest way).
- For couples who just want zero stress: Pick the time you’ll feel your happiest, awake, and excited. Photos are better when you are.
For those dreaming even bigger (hey, global wanderers!), you’ll love my Adventurous Iceland Elopement guide.
Need a Hand Deciding the Best Time of Day to Elope?
Whether you’re team sunrise, team sunset, or team “I still have no clue,” I’ve got you. As your down-for-anything New Hampshire elopement photographer, I’ll help plan your timeline, scout the perfect spot, and ensure your day feels like yours.
Want to see more of my New England elopements? Check out this Pinterest board! Want to save this blog for later or to your own Pinterest elopement planning board? Hover over your favorite photo and press, ‘save.’
Ready to plan your own New Hampshire Elopement? Say hello here. — Let’s watch that sun do its thing, together.
Oh — Hey, I’m Erica, By the Way
I’m here to help you plan an experience that feels hella good, document every silly, tender, and ridiculous moment, and make sure you look back at your photos thinking, “Dang, we really did that.”
Okay — back to you and your big decision: sunrise or sunset? Let’s hash it out.
In case we haven’t officially met yet — I’m Erica: your friendly neighborhood New Hampshire elopement photographer. Portsmouth local, sunset chaser, early morning coffee enthusiast.
