If you’ve lived here long enough, you already know Wisconsin doesn’t care what month it is – she’ll do whatever she wants. The good news? Packing for your elopement doesn’t have to be stressful. A few intentional layers and a couple smart add-ons go a long way, and I help every couple build a personalized packing list based on where we’re going and what we’re doing.

Think of this guide as a solid starting point. When we plan your elopement together, we dial it in based on your timeline, the weather we’re expecting, and the activities you’ve got planned so you feel prepared.

Baseline Packing Essentials

These are the things I recommend to everyone, no matter the month, location, or how adventurous we’re getting.

The “Absolutely Bring This” Category

• Small waterproof toiletry bag (with blotting sheets, lipstick, concealer, chapstick, setting spray, hair ties, bobby pins, mini sewing kit, lint roller)
• Water bottles
• Sunscreen
• Bug spray
• Sunglasses
• Deodorant + perfume/cologne
• Mini first-aid kit
• Wallet with IDs + credit card
• Medications
• A celebratory drink for after the ceremony (craft beer, champagne, whatever feels like you)
• Tide pen
• Extra undergarments
• Extra set of clothes
• Sentimental items (letters, heirlooms, jewelry)

What to Wear / Pack for the Day

• Wedding suit or dress
• Accessories (cufflinks, tie, pocket square, jewelry, hair piece)
• Light jackets (down or rain jacket, colors that won’t fight the landscape always help: black, tan, forest green, cream)
• Leggings under a dress if needed
• Shoes you can actually walk in on tricky terrain (sand, rocks, etc.)
• Undershirt for suits

Spring Packing Musts

Spring in Wisconsin is beautiful, but a little all over the place temperature-wise. Trails can be muddy, temps swing between “pleasant” and “forever winter”. Here’s what I’d recommend packing for your spring elopement:

• Waterproof boots or shoes with good tread
• A warm layer that packs down (light puffy jacket = your best friend)
• Rain jacket
• Hand warmers if you run cold
• Leggings for under dresses
• Extra socks

Summer Packing List

Summer in Wisconsin is pretty easy to prep for. Warm afternoons, busier parks, and the humidity are really the only things to keep in mind, so a few thoughtful essentials will cover you:

• Electrolyte packets
• Sunscreen 
• Light windbreaker for breezy lakefront spots
• Makeup setting spray (the humidity can get pretty intense)
• A dry bag if we’re doing anything on the water
• Bug spray – a must

Fall Packing Must-Haves

Cooler temps, peak color, and that perfectly crisp air. It’s a popular season (for good reason), but still one of the easiest to pack for:

• A warm jacket (light puffy or fleece)
• Warm socks
• Gloves if you’re eloping in late October or November
• Leggings under dresses (no one will know, and you’ll be toasty)
• Headlamps (it gets darker faster)

Winter Packing List

Winters in Wisconsin really are so underrated. Yes, it’s cold, but you certainly don’t have nearly as large of crowds, and it’s still just as beautiful. Here’s what I recommend to stay comfortable:

• Base layers (top + bottom)
• Heavy winter coat
• Wool socks + backups
• Hand warmers + toe warmers
• Waterproof boots
• A thermos with something warm (coffee, tea… or something spiked, no judgment)

Bonus: Packing for Specific Activities

Even across seasons, some activities call for their own little gear list.

If we’re hiking:

• Daypack
• Snacks
• Blister patches
• Headlamp for sunrise or sunset

If we’re near water:

• Quick-dry towel
• Water shoes
• Dry bag for phones, vows, and anything sentimental

If your dog is coming:

• Collapsible water bowl
• Extra poop bags
• Leash that you don’t mind being photographed
• Treats

Every elopement is different; different parks, different trails, different seasons. When we plan your elopement, I build a custom packing list around your actual itinerary so you can show up feeling prepared, comfortable, and ready to actually enjoy your day.