An Elopement Planned in Just Five Weeks — And It Was Perfect

Sometimes the most unforgettable elopements come together in a matter of weeks. Katelyn and Matt reached out just five weeks before deciding to elope — a spontaneous plan to get married before winter swept through Victoria’s high country.

I actually studied photography with Katelyn back in uni, so it was such an honour to photograph another creative’s love story! Especially in one of my favourite places in Victoria, Mt Hotham.

Snow magic and clear blue skies

Katelyn and Matt eloped in the last week of May, right on the edge of winter. In the lead-up to their day, there was a solid amount of snow falling in the mountains, and we were all bracing for icy winds, layers on layers, and possibly even more snow on the ground. We packed for full alpine cold — thermals, puffer jackets, the lot.

But on the day? Absolute bluebird skies. We were laughing at ourselves for being rugged up, only to end up in t-shirts and sweating under the sun. There were still little snow patches clinging to the shaded parts of the trail, so we truly got the best of both seasons — the crisp air and golden light of autumn with just a sprinkle of lingering winter.

It was the kind of weather that feels like the mountains are handing you a gift.

A Quiet Morning Ceremony at Danny’s Lookout

We started the day around 9am with their legal vows at Danny’s Lookout, a stunning alpine spot perched high above the valleys. The views were wide, the air was fresh (very fresh as it was late May!), and the moment felt grounded and simple — just how an elopement should be.

With the paperwork done, we packed our bags and began the next part of the adventure — hiking to the iconic Silver Brumby Hut.

Hot Chocolate, Hiking Boots & a River-Side Picnic

The hike to the hut took around an hour, winding through beautiful bushland and past rivers until we reached the rustic little cabin nestled in the trees. We set up a picnic, made hot chocolate, and shared stories by the water.

In true elopement fashion, things didn’t go exactly to plan — we had a hilarious moment when the milk exploded from the boiler! But honestly, those real, unfiltered moments are what make a day unforgettable.

Sunset Vows on the Ridge | Mt Hotham at Its Dreamiest

After hiking back up, we drove to one of my absolute favourite lookouts on Mt Hotham — a spot with panoramic views and wide open space. Just as the sun dropped, Katelyn and Matt read their personal vows, danced in the golden light, and soaked in the stillness of the moment.

It was everything a sunset mountain elopement should be — slow, intimate, wild, and full of feeling.

Ending the Day with Star Photos in the Alpine Skies

As darkness settled in, we wrapped up the day with a few quiet moments under the stars. There’s something so surreal about ending an elopement with your feet in the grass, mountains behind you, and a sky full of stars overhead.

These two really embraced it all — the hike, the cold, the laughs, and the deep meaning of a day spent intentionally.

Planning a Mt Hotham Elopement? Here’s What You Should Know:

• Mt Hotham is perfect for couples wanting a secluded, adventure-filled elopement in Victoria
• There are so many stunning locations, alpine trails, and hidden huts to explore
• Ideal seasons: All seasons are amazing for different reasons! And you can get quiet spots all over the mountains so it’s never too busy.
• I help with elopement planning, timelines, hiking logistics, and photography — so you can focus on the experience

Let’s Plan Your Mt Hotham Elopement Adventure

If you’re dreaming of a relaxed, meaningful day in the mountains, I’d love to help bring your vision to life!! Whether you’re planning months in advance or deciding on a whim like Katelyn and Matt, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

📍Ready to elope at Mt Hotham? Reach out here to start planning your adventure!!