A Once-in-a-Lifetime Elopement Adventure
— Captured with Heart, Humor & a Little Bit of Magic
I plan and photograph Swiss elopements that feel calm, wildly beautiful, and 100% you—so you’ll remember how it felt, not just how it looked.
A Little Love Letter from Me to You
Hey you two,
If you’re here, it’s because you’re dreaming of something real.
Not a ballroom. Not a tight timeline. Not 200 eyes watching you cut cake.
You want a day that feels like you — unhurried, intimate, and wildly beautiful. You want wind in your hair, dirt on your boots, and the freedom to say “I do” in the most breathtaking place on earth.
I’m Maaike — half Swiss, half Dutch, 100% mountain addict.
And I help couples like you plan and capture elopements that feel less like a production… and more like a love story that actually belongs to you.
Because this isn’t “just” photography. It’s memories of your greatest adventure, frozen in time — the laughter echoing in the valleys, the tears during your vows, the way you looked at each other under the first light of sunrise.
This is your chance to slow down, be present, and soak it all in.
Maaike
Proof that I’m equal parts mountain goat and logistics nerd.
Available Elopement dates per year
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Fewer couples, more love poured into each story.
Years behind the camera
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You bring the love — I bring the experience (and extra batteries).
Sunrise alarms survived
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…and counting
Unique Trails Explored
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Yes, I’ve seen the best light — and eaten snacks on all of them.
What they say about me
“Maaike made us feel completely at ease — it felt like spending the day with a friend who happens to take the most beautiful photos we’ve ever seen. Every picture brings back how we felt.”
Sophie & Lars
What a Switzerland Elopement Feels Like
Imagine this:
The alarm goes off at 3 a.m. — but instead of dread, you feel electric excitement. Coffee steams in your mug as you lace your boots. Outside, the stars still shimmer over the peaks.
By sunrise, you’re standing together on a ridge — your hands shaking, breath misting in the cold mountain air. The first golden light spills across the Alps as you whisper your vows.
Later, you hike down to a hidden lake for a picnic. Maybe you pop a bottle of prosecco. Maybe you take a nap (because, let’s be real, 3 a.m. was early). In the afternoon, a helicopter whirs overhead to take you to a glacier for a sunset toast — the world glowing pink and gold around you.
It’s not a “wedding day.” It’s your day.
No audience. No rules. Just the two of you — wildly in love, somewhere between heaven and earth.
why do i do this
Before I started photographing elopements, I spent over 15 years managing large-scale international events — the kind where timing, communication, and organization had to be flawless. That experience taught me how to handle logistics like a pro so you never have to stress about them.
And maybe the biggest reason I care so much? Because I’ve been where you are. When my husband and I got married, we skipped the big traditional wedding and chose something intimate — just a few loved ones, surrounded by nature… and it was perfect. That day reminded me what really matters: connection, joy, and the freedom to make your day your own. That’s what I want for you, too — a day that feels calm, authentic, and wildly you.
My couples? They’re usually a little introverted, a little awkward in front of the camera, but completely adventurous at heart. They crave laughter over perfection, experience over performance, and cozy, soul-deep memories over polished wedding chaos.
They’d rather hike for two hours to say their vows under a waterfall than rent a ballroom. They love spontaneous giggles, mountain picnics, and maybe a post-vow helicopter ride (because why not end your day on top of a glacier?).
I only take 15 elopements a year — because I believe in quality over quantity. You’ll never be “just another client.” You’ll be the couple whose story I dive into with my whole heart — your timeline, your vision, your adventure.
You bring the love story.
I’ll bring the calm, the camera, and the snacks.
What they say about me
We had a fantastic time during our adventure with Maaike! She answered all our questions and listened to our wishes. Everything was so relaxed, we fully enjoyed each second of it. Maaike adapts easily to you and your requests. The result is beautiful and natural. It’s really an adventure to live once in your life!
Caro & Filip
What’s Included in all my packages
This is more than a checklist — each piece is designed to make your day feel
effortless, joyful, and unforgettable.
4 hours to multi-day coverage
From sunrise vows to glacier picnics, I’m there capturing it all — wind, laughs, happy tears, and every wild-hearted moment in between, so that you can relive the story of your day exactly as it unfolded — not just the highlights, but the heartbeat of every memory.
Personalized planning & timeline support
“Winging it” doesn’t work when there’s a mountain involved. I’ll help plan every detail so your day feels effortless and fun, so that you can stay fully present in the moment instead of stressing about logistics (and actually enjoy your breakfast on your wedding morning).
Location scouting & local expertise
Hidden lakes, secret trails, cozy huts — I know the spots that’ll make you whisper, “is this even real life?”, so that you can say your vows somewhere truly unforgettable — without worrying about crowds, permits, or getting lost halfway up a trail.
Authentic storytelling photography
No awkward posing or fake smiles — just real, emotional, goosebump-worthy moments that feel like you, so that your photos will still make your heart race 20 years from now — because they capture who you are, not just what you looked like.
sneak peek gallery within 48 hours
Waiting sucks — and you’ll want to relive the magic ASAP (I got you), so that you can share the joy with your family and friends while you’re still buzzing from the adventure.
full-resolution online gallery with unlimited downloads
Your memories, beautifully edited and easy to share — so you can brag about your adventure properly, so that every single image lives safely in your hands — no hidden fees, no expiration, just your story, ready to print, post, or frame.
'Leave No Trace' Promise
Epic adventures, zero impact. We’ll keep the Alps as wild and beautiful as we found them, so that you can look back on your day knowing you honored the place that made it magical — and left nothing but footprints (and love).
unlimited communication & support
You’re never “just another booking.” I’m your adventure buddy, timeline wizard, and personal hype-woman — calm under pressure, chocolate always at the ready, so that you can always feel supported, seen, and genuinely cared for — from the first email to the last gallery delivery.
All my travel fees included
No hidden surprises. Just good vibes and honest pricing,
so that you can plan your elopement with full transparency — no fine print, no awkward add-ons, no “oh, by the way” emails later.
What they say about me
The best decision we made (besides marrying each other) was hiring Maaike. Our photos feel alive — like we’re back in that moment every time.
Clara & Tom
Why Book me for your elopement
I’m not just your photographer — I’m your personal Swiss insider ready to guide you on the trail, and your biggest cheerleader.
I blend years of event organising expertise with my love of the mountains to make your elopement actually enjoyable from start to finish.
I’ll help you pick the perfect spot for your vows, know when the best light is to be found, pack snacks, and make sure your timeline flows smoothly — so you can be present in the moment.
And when it comes to your photos — I won’t ask you to pose like models. I’ll guide you naturally, so what we capture is you — laughing, exploring, getting emotional, maybe dancing on a cliff if the mood hits.
This isn’t about perfect hair or Pinterest poses. It’s about connection, adventure, and those real, unfiltered moments that make your story yours.
Timeline example of what a 12-Hours Elopement Day could Look Like
Did you ever feel like “you blinked twice and the day was over”?
Yeah… I know… it’s true! Time can pass super quickly!
Twelve hours gives you space to breathe, to laugh, to eat, to “ugly-cry”, to nap (yes, seriously), and to let every single second sink in.
Example:
The world is asleep — but your hearts are wide awake.
You brew coffee, share a quiet breakfast, and exchange that sleepy smile that says “this is it.”
(And if you’re not morning people — don’t panic. Adrenaline and caffeine are a very effective combo.)
You help each other button up, lace boots, fix collars. The air hums with calm anticipation.
Maybe you exchange letters or gifts, maybe you just sit quietly together for a moment before the adventure begins. It’s the soft, cinematic calm before the mountain wakes.
We pack snacks, caffeine, and a healthy dose of excitement, then hit the road. The drive is quiet and scenic — mist curling off the lake, the first hints of dawn painting the peaks. Yes, I have your playlist queued. Always.
Headlamps on, backpacks ready, hearts racing. The trail glows faintly as dawn creeps in. You hold hands, laugh nervously, maybe wonder how your feet are this cold — and then suddenly, the sky starts to blush. You realize: you’re about to get married on top of the world.
Golden light spills across the Alps. The peaks turn pink, the wind softens, and you whisper your vows while the valley still sleeps below. You cry, you laugh, you breathe. I capture the goosebumps, the trembling hands, the joy that doesn’t need words.
(So that you can relive not just what it looked like — but what it felt like.)
Croissants straight from the paper bag. A thermos of tea. Maybe champagne (because yes, it’s your wedding day). You toast to forever while the sun climbs higher. We wander, explore, and take relaxed portraits that feel easy and joyful — just you, the view, and that post-vow glow.
You take your time. We stop for spontaneous photos, goofy moments, and those “we actually did it!” smiles. The mountains echo your laughter — the kind that only comes from total freedom.
We soak in the last alpine views before heading back down. You’re both tired, glowing, and probably starving — the perfect recipe for cozy, candid storytelling.
You change into something comfy, maybe light a fire, maybe pour mimosas. This part is pure bliss — that in-between space where adrenaline fades and reality hits: you’re married. You cook together, snuggle, or sink into your jacuzzi with a glass of bubbly and some playful “bubbles in the bubbles” photos. (Yes, they always end up being your favorites.)
I step away while you two rest, refuel, or sneak in a well-deserved nap. Because the best adventures always have an intermission — and trust me, you’ll want your energy for what comes next.
Refreshed, glowing, and maybe slightly addicted to the whole “just married in the Alps” feeling, we meet again for round two of the adventure.
Boots back on. Hair slightly wilder. Hearts even fuller.
You soar above the valleys, watching your morning vows spot disappear below the clouds. A quick landing, glasses clinking, laughter echoing off the ice. The world feels huge and intimate all at once — like you’ve carved out your own private sky.
We land back at the heliport, still buzzing from the rush.
You join a few close loved ones at a cozy mountain restaurant or lakeside terrace. The mood is light — laughter, stories, toasts, and maybe a fondue (because… Switzerland). I quietly document the warmth, the glances, the “can you believe today?” smiles.
The light softens, the candles flicker, and I say goodbye — leaving you to savor your final moments of this unforgettable day. You stay behind, hearts overflowing, surrounded by the people (and mountains) you love most.
And when you wake up, you’ll know you didn’t just get married. You lived an experience most people only dream about.
Why Twelve Hours is Perfect!
Twelve hours allows you to slow down. To breathe. To feel everything. You’ll relive every second — from the whisper of dawn to the glow of dusk — and never once feel like time slipped away.
If you’re craving even more magic…
Upgrade to the multi-day elopement and stretch your story into an overnight adventure — glacier toast, campfire snuggles, or a 2-days hiking adventure with a night up in a mountain hut, etc.
(Most couples end up saying, “We wish we had just a few more hours.” And I agree.)
The Elopement Collections
(All prices in CHF, travel fees included)
Full-Day Elopement — 12 Hours
Starting at CHF 11,800
The perfect day for couples who want the full experience — from the first sunrise glance to that sunset glow that says, “We did it!”
This is your chance to experience an unhurried, immersive day with space for every emotion — from adrenaline highs to peaceful moments that you’ll savor for years. You’ll have the time to explore, take naps, pop open a celebratory drink, and perhaps even find a hidden spot for a spontaneous adventure.
So that you can experience your entire day without watching the clock.
You’ll have time for everything — laughter, joy, connection, and the stillness between it all. This is the kind of day you’ll look back on and say, “This was our story, fully lived.”
Why this matters: Many couples start with shorter packages and end up wishing they had more time. With the full day, you’ll never have that feeling. This is the just-right experience — rich, complete, and utterly you. The dream day for those who want every moment captured.
Half-Day Elopement — 8 Hours
Starting at CHF 8,200
For couples who want a rich, immersive day but don’t need an entire day.
This package is perfect for those who want to embrace the full experience — from getting ready to exchanging vows and golden hour moments — but with just the right amount of time to feel relaxed, not rushed. You’ll have enough space to capture both the quiet moments and the fun adventure in between.
So that you can celebrate fully, savoring the beauty and emotion, at a pace that suits you both.
Why this matters: This package strikes the perfect balance — a full adventure without the pressure. You’ll leave with a story that feels beautifully complete, without ever feeling rushed.
mini Elopement — 4 Hours
Starting at CHF 4,800
For couples who believe that less can still be incredible.
This is perfect for intimate ceremonies, vow renewals, or spontaneous “just us” moments — proof that magic doesn’t depend on hours but on heart. You’ll have just the right amount of time to celebrate your love without distractions, and I’ll capture all the raw emotions that make your moment timeless.
So you can focus on what truly matters — each other — while I capture the moments you’ll never forget.
Why this matters: You’ll still get all my planning help, expertise, and storytelling magic — just in a beautifully compact version. The only downside? You’ll probably wish we had a few more hours together.
Perfect for adventures around the Riviera, the Vaud Alps, or any stunning location within about an hour of Montreux — where we can keep things spontaneous, relaxed, and full of natural beauty without spending the day on the road.
For the dreamers who want more...
The Multi-Day Experience (On Demand)
For couples who want to turn their story into a full-blown adventure — maybe exploring several regions, chasing both sunrise and stars, or celebrating over several unforgettable days. Each experience is custom-designed from scratch, blending breathtaking landscapes, heartfelt moments, and the freedom to live your story at your own pace.
It’s more than a package — it’s a journey.
Curious what a multi-day Elopement could look like?
A lot of couples I work with says the same thing afterward:
“We can’t believe how fast the day went — thank goodness we booked the longer coverage.”
No one ever regrets choosing more time. They only regret not having enough. So whether you pick a mini, half-day, full-day, or multi-day adventure — choose the one that lets you breathe, be present, and live it fully.
Because this isn’t just about photos.
It’s about how your day feels — and that’s something worth doing right.
What makes my elopement packages different
Other photographers might offer these time coverages too — but this isn’t an “x hour slot.” It’s an experience crafted start-to-finish around your energy, vision, and rhythm.
You’ll never feel rushed, over-posed, or like you’re on someone else’s schedule.
You’ll feel present. You’ll laugh, cry, and say, “I can’t believe this is our life.”
Because choosing this means saying yes to memories that will outlive every fleeting trend.
Ready to Start Planning?
I only take 15 elopements per year so every couple gets my full creativity, energy, and heart. Once a date is booked, it’s gone — and Swiss mountain light doesn’t wait.
Even if you’re not quite sure yet about your vision, no problem at all! Most couples come to me with nothing but a feeling—and we turn that into the adventure of a lifetime.
I can’t wait to hear your ideas and help bring them to life.
Fill in the form below to reach out or book a free call with me to start the process.
Who’s the Mountain-Loving Human Behind All This?
Hey, I’m Maaike—half Swiss, half Dutch, and 100% passionate about mountains and helping you create your best adventure yet.
After 20 years behind the camera and 15 years wrangling events, I’m your go-to for crafting elopements that feel personal, laid-back, and freaking unforgettable. I’m not just your photographer—I’m your adventure buddy, dress assistant and supporter.
My mission? To make sure your elopement feels effortless, meaningful, and you.
I’ll probably cry behind the lens — but don’t worry, the focus will still be sharp.
Wanna know the human behind the lens?
What Everyone Asks
(and Probably Some You Didn’t Know You Should)
Not at all! Whether you want to climb a summit or stay close to a parking lot with epic views, I’ll help you choose locations that fit your vibe (and your shoes).
Yes, absolutely — your elopement should include the people who matter most to you, whether that’s family, chosen family, or just the two of you. This day is about connection, not rules.
That said, because I specialize in adventure elopements in nature (think mountain trails, hidden lakes, and wild landscapes), I recommend keeping your guest list to 30 people or fewer.
Why? Because intimate groups allow for more freedom, flexibility, and a deeper connection with your surroundings — and many outdoor locations in Switzerland (and beyond) have environmental limits to help protect the land.
If you’re dreaming of something with more guests, I’m happy to chat and explore options that still align with the kind of experience I create. But if your heart is set on a big traditional wedding, I’m probably not the right fit — and that’s totally okay.
Here’s the truth: mountain weather has a mind of its own—and that’s part of the magic. Eloping means embracing whatever the day brings, because that makes for an unforgettable story. But don’t worry: I always plan a solid Plan B (and C!), and we’ll stay flexible to keep your day epic, no matter the forecast.
100% yes. I’ll suggest incredible, secret spots you won’t find on Google—and help you choose the perfect place for your adventure.
Nope! I’m allergic to awkward posing. I’m all about natural, candid photos that capture how you feel, not just how you look. You’ll be too busy exploring trails, laughing together, and soaking up epic views to even notice my camera. I’ll gently guide you if you need it—but mostly, I’ll be your quiet shadow, letting you live every moment without feeling like you’re on a photoshoot.
And if you’re exchanging private vows, I’ll keep my distance so you can have your moment—and you’ll probably forget I’m even there.
I’ll be happy to give you all my best travel tips, help you choose local vendors, and craft a perfect timeline for your adventure.
While I’m not a full-service wedding planner booking everything for you, I’ll make sure you have all the guidance you need to feel confident and excited about your day (and yes—I’ll teach you how to pronounce those tricky Swiss town names… and tell you which cheese is mandatory tasting!).
The sooner the better, especially for peak seasons. I only take 15 couples a year so I can give you my full attention (and plenty of Swiss chocolate).
Heck yes! I’m all for out-of-the-box ideas. I’ll help you plan an adventure that’s totally you—though special activities like helicopters are an extra cost.
Here’s the deal: Switzerland’s breathtaking mountaintops sadly aren’t official wedding venues. Legally speaking, only a civil ceremony at a local registry office counts as an official marriage here.
So if you want your Swiss elopement to be legally binding, you’ll need to tie the knot at city hall first—or back home—and treat your mountain adventure as a symbolic ceremony or even part of your honeymoon.
That said, some couples bring a licensed officiant from their home country who can legally marry them under their country’s laws while traveling—but that’s entirely dependent on your country’s legal requirements (and it won’t make it a Swiss-legal marriage).
Either way, trust me… your symbolic ceremony in the mountains will feel every bit as real and magical as any legal paperwork—and way more epic.
Totally okay! Most of my couples start with just a feeling. I’ll help you turn that spark into a full adventure you’ll remember forever.
Ready to Skip the Ordinary and Run Toward Your Wildest Day Ever?
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