Featuring Thomas + Tara’s Simple Seacoast Elopement
Tara and Thomas didn’t cancel their wedding plans because something went wrong. They paused because something didn’t feel right.
They had a traditional wedding halfway planned when they realized what they actually wanted wasn’t more details or decisions — it was space. Space to slow down, enjoy each other, and celebrate their marriage in a way that felt natural instead of performative.
So they shifted gears.
They chose familiarity over formality. And they planned a simple, meaningful Fuller Gardens elopement along the Seacoast rooted in places that already felt like home.
Why They Chose a Seacoast Elopement
For Tara, the New Hampshire coast wasn’t just a pretty backdrop — it was personal. She grew up going to the beaches in Rye, and those quiet stretches of sand held years of memories long before wedding plans ever entered the picture.
When they decided to elope, choosing the Seacoast felt easy. It meant:
- Familiar places instead of formal venues
- A relaxed pace instead of a packed timeline
- A day focused on being present, not hosting
Their elopement wasn’t about escaping tradition, it was about choosing something that fit.
See the Top 8 Wedding Venues In The Seacoast and my very biased opinion of the Best Photo Locations In The Seacoast
A First Look at Wallis Sands Beach in Rye, New Hampshire
We started their day with a first look at Wallis Sands Beach in Rye, one of my favorite Seacoast spots for couples who want privacy, movement, and a calm start to their day. (Check out this wedding in Rye that I documented recently!)
Beach first looks work especially well for elopements because:
- There’s room to breathe (literally and emotionally)
- You can move, walk, laugh, and shake off nerves
- It doesn’t feel like all eyes are on you
No rushing. No audience. Just the two of them, ocean air, and a quiet moment to take it all in together.
Exploring the Seacoast: Beaches, Cliffs, and Letting the Day Flow
After their first look, we spent time hopping between a few Seacoast spots — sandy beaches, rocky edges, and cliffs overlooking the water.
This is one of my favorite parts of planning Seacoast elopements: you don’t have to stay in one place. A flexible timeline allows the day to unfold naturally, following the light, the weather, and your energy.
Instead of structuring the day around a strict schedule, Tara and Thomas let the experience lead and that freedom shows in the photos. Nothing felt rushed or forced. Just relaxed, in-the-moment movement along the coast. It was everything and more.
A Fuller Gardens Elopement in Hampton, NH
For their ceremony, Tara and Thomas chose Fuller Gardens in Hampton, New Hampshire, a hidden gem for couples planning an intimate garden elopement.
Fuller Gardens is especially perfect for:
- Small, intimate ceremonies (max 25 guests!)
- Couples who love greenery and florals
- A garden setting that still feels calm and contained
The greenhouse and gardens create a quiet, romantic atmosphere without needing elaborate décor or a big guest list. It’s peaceful, intimate, and incredibly timeless — ideal for couples who want a garden elopement in Hampton, NH that feels meaningful without being overcomplicated.
Their ceremony was simple, heartfelt, and focused entirely on the commitment they were making — no distractions, no pressure to perform, just a moment that felt fully theirs.
See more of my favorite outdoor wedding venues in New Hampshire, here!
Planning a Simple Seacoast Elopement (Without Overthinking It)
Tara and Thomas’ day is a great reminder that elopements don’t need to be packed with activities to feel complete. If you’re planning a New Hampshire elopement or intimate Seacoast wedding, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Choose places that already mean something to you
Familiar locations instantly make the day feel grounded and personal. Need help deciding? I have a blog post all about how to decide between the beach, mountains or both. - Build in movement
Visiting a few nearby spots keeps things relaxed and adds variety without stress. - Keep the ceremony intimate
Smaller guest counts often lead to more emotional, present moments. - Let the timeline breathe
Some of the best moments happen in between the “planned” ones. I have a blog all about creating the best timeline for your day, here.
Simple doesn’t mean empty — it means intentional.
A Seacoast Elopement That Felt Like Them
Tara and Thomas’ Fuller Gardens elopement was calm, joyful, and deeply personal. It wasn’t about checking boxes or following a formula — it was about creating a day that allowed them to actually enjoy getting married.
And honestly? That’s always the goal.
Check out this blog for 11 non-traditional things to do at your elopement!
Planning an Intimate Seacoast Elopement in New Hampshire?
If you’re dreaming of a Seacoast elopement or intimate wedding in New Hampshire, something small, meaningful, and true to you — I’d love to help you plan a day that feels easy and intentional from start to finish.
I’m currently prioritizing local New Hampshire elopements and intimate weddings for the 2026 & 2027 season, especially along the Seacoast.
If that sounds like your kind of day, let’s chat.
Head to this blog next to help you decide on a sunrise or sunset elopement along the seacoast!
