For couples looking to escape the traditional wedding and enjoy the intimacy of an elopement, Cape Cod and the surrounding islands offer the perfect backdrop! Lauren and Ben’s elopement at Nobska Beach in Falmouth, MA, was a beautiful example of how amazing an intimate elopement can be. From the private first look to a vineyard reception just for two, their day was full of memorable moments worth sharing. Here’s what you need to know to plan your own Cape Cod elopement!
Lauren and Ben’s Intimate Cape Cod Elopement
The beauty of an elopement is the ability to take your time and savor every moment! Lauren and Ben did just that, they got ready separately before beginning their elopement with a private first look as Lauren arrived at the ceremony spot. Without the distractions of a large gathering, they could focus on each other and enjoy every part of the day. Their ceremony was so beautiful on the beach, there were no distractions and it was all about them. After their ceremony we took the most breathtaking portraits! They are some of my favorites! After that, we headed to Cape Cod Winery. Their intimate first dance at the vineyard was one of the highlights of the day. I absolutely loved this moment. The vineyard was reserved exclusively for them, where they shared champagne and shared their wedding cake. These special touches made the elopement feel personalized and unique, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Why Choose Cape Cod for Your Elopement?
Cape Cod is a beloved destination known for its charming coastal scenery, quaint towns, and iconic lighthouses. Whether you’re drawn to sandy beaches, scenic ocean views, or the classic New England atmosphere, this area provides a stunning backdrop for an elopement! Lauren and Ben chose to do their elopement on Nobska Beach in Falmouth! Nobska Beach is not only beautiful but also has a lighthouse backdrop! Its proximity to parking and the availability of nearby scenic spots for photos make it a convenient choice for couples seeking a mix of beach and classic New England scenery. Some areas can be difficult to access due to fencing, but with the right timing and planning, capturing beautiful lighthouse shots is possible.
When to Elope in Cape Cod
Cape Cod’s busiest season runs from June through August. During this time, the Cape has a lot of tourists, making it challenging to find private spots for a ceremony. For a quieter experience, consider eloping in the off-season, as Lauren and Ben did. They had the beach nearly to themselves, enjoying the tranquil surroundings and a road free of traffic. If you're planning to elope during the summer, be prepared for crowds, parking fees, and the need for advance permits. To legally elope on Cape Cod's beaches, you'll need to secure the appropriate permits and a marriage license. Beach permits can be obtained from the local town or city hall where the beach is located. For instance, Falmouth Beach Department provides permit information for Nobska Beach and other local beaches. For marriage licenses in Massachusetts, couples can apply at any city or town clerk's office within the state. Visit the Massachusetts Government website for more details on how to obtain a marriage license and the requirements involved. For a quieter experience, consider eloping in the off-season, as Lauren and Ben did. They had the beach nearly to themselves, enjoying the tranquil surroundings and a road free of traffic.
How to Get to Cape Cod from Boston
Traveling to Cape Cod from Boston is straightforward, with several transportation options to suit different preferences. Here’s a guide to help you reach this picturesque destination:
By Car: The most direct route from Boston to Cape Cod is via I-93 S and MA-3 S, which takes you over the Sagamore Bridge or the Bourne Bridge onto the Cape. The drive is about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Expect heavier traffic during peak season and weekends.
By Ferry: For a scenic and stress-free option, take a ferry from Boston to Cape Cod. Ferries depart from the Boston Harbor and arrive in Provincetown, located on the northern tip of the Cape. Boston Harbor Cruises offers a seasonal high-speed ferry service from Boston to Provincetown, which takes about 90 minutes. Learn more about schedules and booking here. Bay State Cruise Company also runs a high-speed ferry to Provincetown with similar travel times. Check their website for details.
By Bus: Buses are an economical and convenient way to travel to Cape Cod. Services depart from Boston's South Station and drop passengers off at various Cape locations. Peter Pan Bus Lines offers regular service to multiple towns on Cape Cod, including Falmouth, Hyannis, and Provincetown. Find schedules and fares here. Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) provides local bus service across the Cape once you arrive, making it easy to reach your final destination. Check the CCRTA schedules.
By Train: The CapeFLYER is a seasonal train service operating from Memorial Day through Labor Day, offering a scenic rail journey from Boston's South Station to Hyannis. The train runs on weekends and includes free Wi-Fi, a café car, and bike storage. Explore more details and book your tickets here.
The Importance of Location and Logistics
Selecting the perfect spot for your elopement involves more than just picking a pretty location. Nobska Beach was ideal for Lauren and Ben because of its convenient parking close to the beach and lighthouse, which are key factors to consider when planning an elopement. The beach’s off-season seclusion allowed them to fully embrace the moment, with no distractions from passing tourists. For those interested in a Cape Cod elopement, here are a few logistics to keep and additional tips to help you plan a seamless and unforgettable Cape Cod elopement.
1.Plan Around the Time of Year: Choose the off-season for a quieter experience or prepare for summer crowds if eloping between June and August.
2. Permits Are Essential: Many beaches require permits for ceremonies, so ensure you have the necessary permissions in place.
3. Transportation Matters: Consider how you’ll arrive if you don’t want to see each other before the ceremony.
4. Create Special Post-Ceremony Plans: Plan a private celebration afterward, such as a picnic, wine tasting, or private dinner, to keep the day feeling magical.
Working with Jen was a dream! Jen is so open and friendly, and immediately made us feel comfortable in front of her camera. Her portfolio is stunning and we could not be more thrilled with our photos. They are even better than we could have imagined. Jen captures the tiniest, most candid moments. Since we eloped, our family and friends were so excited to experience our day through her photos. And now we wait for another event for her to photograph for us!
- Lauren Purdy
Considering a Cape Cod Elopement? Looking for a Photographer?
Elopements give couples the chance to truly make the day their own, focusing on their love and the promises they’re making. For Lauren and Ben, the private moments, meaningful touches, and the secluded beach made their Cape Cod elopement an unforgettable experience! If you’re considering a Cape Cod elopement and looking for a Cape Cod elopement photographer, I’d love to be a part of your special day. You can see more of my work here and contact me here! I can’t wait to hear from you!
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