Do you want a wedding that's not just a day to remember but an entire experience packed with adventure for you, your loved ones, and your guests? Picture a celebration that breaks free from tradition, where the day is filled with hiking, exploring, and thrilling activities that forge unforgettable memories — and capture stunning photos against breathtaking landscapes. That’s possible, and we’re here to share how to make it happen.

6 Ideas for Planning an Unforgettable Adventure Wedding

Whether you’re looking to sprinkle in some lighthearted fun or dive into full-scale adventures, the level of excitement is entirely up to you. Here’s how to plan an epic wedding with adventure wedding ideas for couples eager to infuse their special day with unforgettable memories!

1. Choose an Adventurous Wedding Destination 

One main way to ensure your adventure wedding is memorable is to choose a unique destination. Are you looking to stay in the United States or venture outside the country? Do you want to stay close to home, or are you looking to hop on a plane to somewhere new?

There are many beautiful places across the nation and around the world where you can get married. The possibilities are endless! So, it’s important to consider how far you want to travel, your budget, and whether or not you want family and friends to travel with you. These factors will play a big role in picking the perfect setting for your adventure wedding.

Of course, here at Epic Thyme, our favorite destination for a wedding adventure is Lake Tahoe. With its awe-inspiring landscapes and endless possibilities, Lake Tahoe allows you to craft the adventure wedding of your dreams. Whether you envision a serene lakeside ceremony or an exhilarating mountain backdrop, this stunning locale offers something for every adventurous couple.

2. Skip the Church and Find an Adventurous Place to say “I Do”

While we love a classic church wedding, an adventure wedding requires you to say “I do” somewhere a little more unconventional.

You can promise your love under a waterfall. Or proclaim it on a mountaintop. Or standing by a gorgeous lake, beach, or river. You can hike to your ceremony spot or make sure it’s accessible for all your wedding guests. You can get married in the sun or snow, at sunrise or sunset.

At Epic Thyme, we specialize in crafting unique and adventurous weddings that break away from tradition. Picture exchanging your vows in a charming Airbnb, an adventurous house setting, or even at a spontaneous pop-up location. A pop-up wedding offers the flexibility to create your dream ceremony anywhere — from a serene meadow to the edge of a rushing river — by working closely with florists to design a portable and stunning setup for your "I do" moment.

The options are truly limitless! By envisioning the type of ceremony you desire and selecting your dream location, you can design the ultimate adventure wedding. And with the Epic Thyme team by your side, you'll discover creative possibilities you never imagined.

3. Take Wedding Photos in Adventurous Locations

If you want your loved ones by your side, you probably don’t want a ceremony spot that requires a hike to reach. And that’s okay! You can choose a venue that's both accessible and adventurous. Many hotels and venues offer the perfect mix of comfort and beauty for your ceremony, especially in Lake Tahoe. 

Then, after you say "I do," you can take your photographer on an adventure to capture unforgettable photos. In Lake Tahoe, consider High Camp in Squaw Valley as your venue, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe with easy access for everyone. Before or after your wedding, sneak away to capture amazing photos and experiences in the area.

Why not plan a photo shoot with Charleton Churchill or a video shoot with Rafael at Amora Cinema? You can share these incredible memories online, ensuring everyone feels included in the adventure of your special day, even if they couldn't be there to see it in person.

 4. Have an Adventure Elopement 

If you’re liking these adventure wedding ideas but they still aren’t hitting the spot, it might be time to consider an adventure elopement! Imagine exchanging vows in a whimsical treehouse or on a secluded bluff or private beach — each offering an intimate and unforgettable start to your new life together. A skilled wedding planner can transform your elopement into a magical experience, ensuring every detail is perfect.

Modern elopements are well-planned, combining the thrill of spontaneity with meticulous organization. You'll still need essentials like flowers, delicious food, cozy accommodations, smooth travel, beautiful decor, and, of course, CAKE! 

Coordinating an officiant’s arrival and capturing the day with stunning photographs are just a few of the elements that a planner will expertly manage. For a Lake Tahoe elopement, contact Epic Thyme — we will take care of all the details to make sure your elopement day is the adventure of a lifetime.

5. Choose an Adventure Themed Wedding Design

Maybe you’re an adventurous couple, but your actual wedding day isn’t the best time for you to go off exploring. There are still ways to bring the spirit of adventure to your wedding. One of these is to have an adventure themed wedding design, using elements of your favorite adventures to decorate your space. 

Here are fun and creative adventure language ideas to incorporate into your wedding invitations, signs, and design:

• “You’re my greatest adventure.”

• “And so, the adventure begins.”

• “Loving you is my favorite adventure.”

• “Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.”

• “Love is the only true adventure.”

From crafting invitations that echo your favorite adventures to designing signage that captures your adventurous spirit, you can infuse every detail with the thrill of exploration. Imagine decor transforming your venue into a scenic landscape or table settings reflecting your most cherished travels. With these personalized touches, your wedding will truly feel like the journey of a lifetime.

6. Put Adventure Gifts on Your Gift Registry 

Another way to highlight your adventurous spirit on your wedding day (without making Grandma hike up a cliff to see you get married) is to register for adventure gifts on your wedding gift registry. Whether you enjoy camping, hiking, paddle boarding, rock climbing, skiing, or any other type of adventure activity, you can register for gifts that will allow you and your new husband or wife to go on adventures together after your wedding — maybe even on your honeymoon! 

Our Top Adventure Wedding Idea: Say "I Do" in Lake Tahoe!

Imagine exchanging vows on a majestic mountaintop, sharing an intimate moment on a secluded beach, or celebrating in a luxurious hotel surrounded by nature's beauty — Lake Tahoe offers it all for the adventurous couple. Whether you crave exploration, want to include family and friends, or seek a private elopement, this stunning destination provides endless possibilities for your special day.

Ready to embark on your wedding adventure in the breathtaking landscape of Lake Tahoe? Reach out to Epic Thyme today, and let us help you plan an unforgettable journey for your wedding day.