Savannah Elopements: An Insider’s Guide
A bride and groom kiss beneath the live oak trees at a wedding at Wormsloe State Park for their Savannah Elopement - Photography by Maring Visuals
Savannah Elopements in Savannah, Georgia: An Insider’s Guide to Saying “I Do”
A romantic portrait at a Savannah elopement created by wedding photographer Charles Maring in the historic district downtown.
Savannah is a city that doesn’t wait for weekends or grand guest lists. Here, elopements unfold quietly and beautifully every day of the week beneath moss-draped live oaks, along cobblestone streets, inside historic squares, and on sunlit riverfront paths. For couples craving intimacy, meaning, and a sense of place, a Savannah elopement offers something rare: ease paired with undeniable romance.
This guide is designed to help couples navigate the practical details of eloping in Savannah, while also sharing insider insight that turns a simple ceremony into a truly memorable experience.
Why Eloping in Savannah, GA Is So Popular
Savannah’s walkable historic district, layered architecture, and natural beauty make it uniquely suited for elopements. You can move from ceremony to celebration to portraits without ever getting into a car. The city feels cinematic but relaxed ideal for couples who want their wedding day to feel intentional, not rushed.
Elopements here are common, accepted, and celebrated. You’ll see them happening in the early morning light, during quiet weekday afternoons, and even just before sunset when the city glows.
Savannah Marriage License & Legal Requirements for Elopements
Bride and Groom exchange their vows at an intimate wedding ceremony for their elopement in Forsyth Park Savannah GA - Photography by Maring Visuals
Before planning locations or flowers, it’s important to understand the legal basics:
Marriage License: Couples must obtain a Georgia marriage license from any probate court in the state. Chatham County (Savannah) makes this process straightforward.
Waiting Period: There is no waiting period in Georgia once the license is issued.
Identification: Both parties must present valid identification.
Officiant: Georgia allows ordained ministers, judges, and certain officials to legally perform ceremonies.
Many couples choose to handle the paperwork themselves, while others prefer assistance to ensure everything is handled correctly and stress-free.
Savannah Elopement Permits & City of Savannah Guidelines
Savannah’s iconic squares, parks, and historic locations are public spaces, which means:
Small, Simple Ceremonies: Very small elopements (often just the couple and officiant) may not require permits.
Permits Required: Any setup, chairs, florals, amplified sound, or additional guests usually requires a permit from the City of Savannah.
Timing Matters: Early mornings and weekdays are ideal for privacy and minimal interruptions.
Navigating permits can feel confusing, especially for couples planning from out of town. Local expertise makes all the difference.
Best Locations for a Savannah Elopement
Forsyth Park Elopements (Most Popular Savannah Location)
Forsyth Park is the most popular and recognizable elopement location in Savannah. Its iconic white fountain, sweeping walkways, and towering live oak trees create a timeless Savannah backdrop for intimate ceremonies and wedding portraits.
Savannah offers a variety of settings depending on the mood you envision:
Bride and groom walk together in Forsyth Park after their wedding ceremony. - Photography by Maring Visuals
Other Popular Savannah Elopement Locations
Savannah Historic Squares: Quiet, romantic green spaces surrounded by centuries-old architecture.
River Street: Cobblestone paths, historic warehouses, and sweeping Savannah River views.
Hidden Courtyards & Lanes: Ideal for couples seeking privacy and old-world Southern charm.
Wormsloe State Historic Site: Famous for its mile-long oak avenue and refined elopement packages, offering curated experiences for couples seeking elegance and nature.
Tybee Island: Just outside Savannah, offering relaxed coastal elopements with ocean views.
The key is choosing a location that fits both your vision and the city’s guidelines.
Savannah Elopement Planning Experts: Squire Travel & Event Concierge
This is where having true boots-on-the-ground professionals becomes invaluable.
Plan the perfect Savannah Vacation and Elopement with Squire Travel & Events
Squire Travel & Event Concierge are Savannah insiders who know the city beyond the guidebooks. They specialize in crafting seamless elopement getaways and intimate celebrations by handling both the logistics and the thoughtful details.
How Squire Travel & Event Concierge Supports Savannah Elopements
Squire Concierge services can include:
Flight and hotel coordination for couples and guests
Ground transportation throughout Savannah
Securing an officiant, minister, or justice of the peace
Booking trusted Savannah elopement photographers
Assisting with permits, timing, and location selection
Recommending dining, experiences, and celebratory moments after the ceremony
Their deep local knowledge allows couples to relax and enjoy Savannah, rather than worrying about schedules, paperwork, or unfamiliar rules.
Planning a Stress-Free Savannah Elopement
The most successful Savannah elopements share one thing in common: they feel effortless. That ease comes from understanding the city, respecting its rhythms, and working with professionals who know how to move within it gracefully.
Whether you envision a quiet vow exchange under live oaks, a sunrise ceremony in a hidden square, or a coastal moment on Tybee Island, Savannah welcomes elopements with open arms every single day of the week.
With the right guidance and local expertise, your Savannah elopement becomes more than a ceremony. It becomes a beautifully lived experience.
A bride and groom pose in front of the Forsyth Park Fountain in Savannah GA - Wedding Photography by Charles Maring
Savannah Elopement FAQs
Do you need a permit to elope in Savannah, Georgia?
Small, simple elopements in Savannah typically just the couple and an officiant often do not require a permit when held in public spaces. However, if you plan to bring guests, chairs, florals, arches, or any type of setup, a permit from the City of Savannah is usually required.
How do I get a marriage license for a Savannah elopement?
Couples must obtain a Georgia marriage license from any probate court in the state. Many couples choose to obtain their license in Chatham County (Savannah). There is no waiting period once the license is issued, and both parties must present valid identification.
Can non-residents elope in Savannah GA?
Yes. You do not need to be a Georgia resident to elope in Savannah. Couples from anywhere in the world can legally marry in Savannah as long as they obtain a valid Georgia marriage license.
Where is the most popular place to elope in Savannah?
Forsyth Park is the most popular elopement location in Savannah. Its iconic fountain, sweeping walkways, and live oak trees create a classic Savannah setting that works beautifully for intimate ceremonies and wedding photography.
Are there elopement packages available in Savannah?
Yes. Locations such as Wormsloe State Historic Site offer structured elopement packages and curated experiences. Many couples also work with local concierge services to create custom elopement experiences throughout Savannah.
Can someone help plan our Savannah elopement from out of town?
Absolutely. Squire Travel & Event Concierge specializes in planning Savannah elopements for out-of-town couples. They assist with travel logistics, accommodations, officiants, photographers, permits, transportation, and personalized details making the entire experience seamless.
Can Squire Travel & Event Concierge help with vendors?
Yes. Squire Concierge can book trusted Savannah-based professionals including officiants, ministers, justices of the peace, photographers, transportation providers, and more. Their local relationships ensure couples work with experienced, reliable vendors.
What day of the week is best for a Savannah elopement?
Elopements happen in Savannah every day of the week. Weekdays and early mornings tend to be quieter, offering more privacy and flexibility, especially in popular locations like Forsyth Park and Savannah’s historic squares.