The Empowered Elopement Podcast

In this episode, Daniela sits down with award winning elopement photographer Henry Tieu to explore a question more and more couples are asking: what if your wedding day didn’t have to follow the traditional script?
Henry shares his journey into elopement photography and how his work documenting intimate weddings around the world has shaped his perspective on what makes a wedding day truly meaningful. Together, he and Daniela talk about the growing shift away from conventional wedding expectations and toward experiences that prioritize connection, presence, and personal meaning.
They dive into what it really looks like to plan an international elopement, the emotional and logistical considerations couples face when choosing a different path, and how photographers can support couples in creating space for authentic moments rather than overly directing the day.
The conversation also explores the balance between posing and candid photography, and how trust between couples and their photographer allows genuine moments to unfold naturally. Daniela and Henry reflect on the influence of social media on wedding expectations and the pressure couples can feel to recreate picture-perfect moments.
Ultimately, this episode is about redefining what a wedding can be—and giving couples permission to design a day that reflects their values, their relationship, and the experience they truly want to remember.
Takeaways
• Couples are increasingly questioning traditional wedding expectations and designing celebrations that feel more personal.• Elopements allow couples to prioritize connection, experience, and meaning over performance.• International elopements require thoughtful planning but can create deeply memorable experiences.• The best wedding photography balances gentle guidance with space for authentic moments to unfold.• Social media often shows only the most curated parts of weddings, which can shape unrealistic expectations.• A strong connection between couples and their photographer helps create more natural, meaningful photographs.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Elopement Photography03:02 Henry's Journey into Elopement Photography05:24 Booking International Elopements08:12 Encouraging Couples to Elope11:34 The Significance of Intimate Weddings14:07 The Power of Connection in Wedding Planning16:56 Understanding the Choice to Elope20:00 The Evolution of Wedding Norms23:14 Crafting the Perfect Elopement Timeline30:06 The Validation of Elopement vs. Traditional Weddings32:01 Navigating Hybrid Wedding Experiences34:35 Finding Inspiration in Photography38:42 Balancing Posing and Authenticity46:31 Incorporating Couples' Inspirations53:42 Choosing the Right Photographer
 
Links & Resources
You can follow Henry here:
Website – https://www.henry-tieu.com/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/henrysdiary/TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@henrysdiary
 
For questions or if you'd like to be on the podcast, please reach out toempoweredelopementpodcast@gmail.com
Thanks for listening :)
 

S1E8 From Overwhelmed to Present: Why Elopements Feel Different for Introverts with Nico Friedrichs
Show Notes
In this episode, Daniela sits down with elopement photographer Nico Friedrichs to explore a feeling many couples don’t expect until they’re in it: how overwhelming a traditional wedding day can feel—and what it looks like to create something different.
Nico shares his journey from photographing larger, more traditional weddings to specializing in intimate elopements, reflecting on how that transition changed not only his work but also the way he experiences wedding days. Together, he and Daniela discuss why elopements often feel calmer, more intentional, and more aligned—especially for introverted couples.
They dive into the emotional and logistical differences between traditional weddings and elopements, and how creating a smaller, more intentional environment allows couples to be more present with each other and the experience itself. Nico also shares how many couples struggle to fully remember their wedding day when it feels fast-paced or overwhelming—and how elopements can create space for slower, more meaningful moments.
Daniela and Nico also explore the role of personal branding and niche work within the wedding industry, especially for photographers who feel drained by traditional wedding environments. They reflect on how choosing a path that aligns with your personality can lead to more fulfilling work and more genuine client experiences.
Ultimately, this episode is about shifting from overwhelm to presence—and creating a wedding experience that feels calm, connected, and true to who you are.
Takeaways
• Traditional weddings can feel overwhelming, making it harder for couples to stay present.• Elopements often create a calmer, more intentional environment—especially for introverts.• Smaller celebrations allow for deeper emotional connection and more authentic moments.• Many couples struggle to fully remember their wedding day when it feels fast-paced or high-pressure.• Choosing a path that aligns with your personality can lead to a more meaningful experience.• Creating space—both physically and emotionally—can transform how a wedding day is felt and remembered.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Elopement Photography04:29 The Journey to Elopement Photography08:16 The Magic of Elopements12:47 The Emotional Depth of Elopements17:20 The Contrast Between Traditional Weddings and Elopements22:01 Navigating Family Expectations26:47 The Importance of Personal Connection30:52 Finding Your Authentic Wedding Style35:54 The Power of Elopements for Introverts40:33 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Links & Resources
Websitehttps://nicofriedrichs.com/
Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/nico.friedrichs/
For questions or if you'd like to be on the podcast, please reach out toempoweredelopementpodcast@gmail.com
Thanks for listening :)
 

S1E7 How to Create a Wedding That Feels Like an Elopement with Kristen McGilpin
Show Notes
In this episode, Daniela sits down with Kristen McGilpin to talk about how couples can design a wedding that feels relaxed, authentic, and deeply personal—even when it includes more people than a traditional elopement.
Kristen shares her experience planning a wedding that prioritized connection, intentionality, and time with her partner, rather than getting swept up in trends or expectations. Together, she and Daniela explore how couples can create a celebration that feels meaningful while still honoring the people they love.
The conversation dives into practical aspects of wedding planning, from choosing a venue that aligns with your vision to creating a timeline that allows space to actually experience the day. Kristen also reflects on the importance of staying grounded in your own values throughout the planning process and resisting the pressure to design a wedding that’s more about appearance than experience.
Daniela and Kristen also discuss the role of photography in preserving the feeling of a wedding day, how thoughtful planning can help couples stay present, and why prioritizing self-care and mental wellness throughout the process is just as important as any logistical detail.
Ultimately, this episode offers both inspiration and practical guidance for couples who want their wedding to feel less like a production and more like a meaningful moment shared with the people who matter most.
Takeaways
• A wedding can feel intimate and relaxed even if it isn’t technically an elopement.• Staying true to your values helps prevent wedding planning from becoming overwhelming or trend-driven.• Prioritizing time with your partner on the wedding day can help couples stay present and connected.• Choosing the right venue and team of vendors can shape the overall atmosphere of the celebration.• Intentional planning creates space for meaningful moments throughout the day.• Self-care and mental wellness are important parts of navigating the wedding planning process.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background06:22 Staying Authentic in the Wedding Planning Process09:12 Prioritizing Time with Your Partner on Your Wedding Day21:08 Finding the Perfect Wedding Dress26:39 The Benefits of Hiring a Wedding Planner29:36 The Significance of Photography31:59 Capturing Aerial Shots with a Drone35:20 Prioritizing Self-Care and Enjoying the Celebration47:50 Navigating Wedding Planning50:02 Creating Meaningful Moments52:35 The Importance of Personalization01:05:13 Prioritizing Mental Wellness
Links & Resources
Lavendlair Farmhttps://lavendlair.com
Windrift Hallhttps://windrifthall.com
Nina and Jackson Photographyhttps://ninaandjackson.com
For questions or if you'd like to be on the podcast, please reach out toempoweredelopementpodcast@gmail.com
Thanks for listening :)
 
 

S1E6 The Role of Intuition in Planning a Wedding and Designing Your Life with Stephanie Dawn Elizabeth
Show Notes
In this episode, Daniela sits down with creative coach Stephanie Dawn Elizabeth to explore the role intuition plays in some of life’s biggest decisions—including how we choose to get married.
Stephanie shares her journey of learning to trust herself and follow her inner voice, a process that deepened during her Saturn return and shaped both her personal life and her work supporting creatives. Together, she and Daniela discuss how self-trust develops over time and how tuning into your intuition can help guide decisions that feel aligned and authentic.
The conversation also explores Stephanie’s experience choosing to elope and how trusting her instincts helped her and her partner design a wedding experience centered around intimacy and connection. Rather than following traditional expectations, they chose a path that reflected what felt most meaningful to them.
Daniela and Stephanie reflect on how many couples feel pressure to follow established wedding norms and how reconnecting with your intuition can create space for more intentional choices. They also discuss practical ways to begin building self-trust—starting with small daily questions, micro habits, and moments of honest reflection.
Ultimately, this episode is about learning to trust yourself, making decisions that feel true to who you are, and recognizing that the most meaningful celebrations often come from following your own path.
Takeaways
• Self-trust is built gradually through small, intentional decisions and daily practices.• Intuition can serve as a powerful guide when making major life decisions, including how couples choose to get married.• Eloping can be an act of trusting yourself and prioritizing what truly matters in your relationship.• Traditional wedding expectations don’t have to define what a meaningful celebration looks like.• Asking yourself honest questions about what you truly want can strengthen your sense of clarity and alignment.• Intimacy and connection often become the foundation for more intentional wedding experiences.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Getting to Know Stephanie Dawn Elizabeth01:23 Trusting Yourself and Following Your Intuition06:18 The Significance of Saturn Return08:37 Stephanie's Coaching Focus on Creatives09:49 The Decision to Elope and Have a Small Wedding15:03 Trusting Yourself in Wedding Planning22:20 Including Loved Ones in a Separate Celebration26:58 Stephanie's Elopement Experience and Celebration33:12 Prioritizing Intimacy and Connection45:32 Starting with Self-Trust
Links & Resources
 
You can follow Stephanie here:
Website – Stephanie Dawn Elizabeth’s WebsiteInstagram – Stephanie Dawn Elizabeth
Atomic Habits by James Clear
 
For questions or if you'd like to be on the podcast, please reach out toempoweredelopementpodcast@gmail.com
Thanks for listening :)
 

Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Empowered Elopement Podcast, host Daniela Monzi sits down with seasoned elopement photographer Dawn Honsky to explore her 17-year journey behind the lens. Dawn shares how she transitioned from traditional weddings to elopements and what makes documenting intimate celebrations so deeply fulfilling. From pricing and planning to community and connection, this heartfelt conversation is packed with wisdom for both photographers and couples.
Connect with Dawn on Instagram & her website

What You’ll Learn
Why elopements offer a more meaningful, stress-free alternative to traditional weddings
How elopement photographers often step into the role of planner and guide
The importance of capturing genuine emotion in intimate settings
What makes pricing different for elopements
Why building a supportive photography community matters
How to create safe, inclusive spaces for couples
Tips for photographers entering the elopement space
Ways to personalize your elopement experience, even with guests

Chapter Breakdown00:00 – Introduction and Dawn’s Background04:38 – Discovering Elopement Photography in Colorado06:31 – The Emotional Power of Intimate Weddings25:29 – Elopement Pricing and Planning Insights27:57 – Comparing Elopements and Traditional Weddings30:04 – Helping Couples Choose Meaningful Locations32:20 – Shifting from Weddings to Elopements36:39 – Fostering Community and Giving Back46:29 – Creating Safe, Supportive Spaces for Couples

Tags: elopement photography, wedding photography, intimate weddings, emotional storytelling, planning elopements, photography career, photography tips, photographer community, couples advice, alternative wedding planning
 

In this episode of the Empowered Elopement Podcast, Daniela Monzi and Jessica Christie explore the transformative journey of love, photography, and self-discovery. Jessica shares her evolution from a traditional wedding photographer to embracing elopements and intimate celebrations, emphasizing the importance of self-love and personal empowerment. They discuss the societal pressures surrounding marriage and the significance of taking ownership of one's life choices. The conversation highlights the power of manifestation and the choice to cultivate love in everyday life, ultimately encouraging listeners to reconnect with their true selves and redefine their narratives around love and relationships.
 
Takeaways
Jessica Christie has been a photographer for over 14 years, primarily in the wedding industry.
She recently launched a new business called Roaring Love, focusing on intentional photography.
Jessica's love for photography stems from her deep belief in love itself.
The shift from traditional weddings to elopements reflects a growing desire for authenticity in celebrations.
Jessica experienced an identity crisis during the pandemic, prompting her to reevaluate her career and personal life.
Self-love is essential for creating meaningful connections with others.
Manifestation is a powerful tool, and individuals are always manifesting their beliefs into reality.
Taking ownership of one's life and choices is crucial for personal growth and empowerment.
Love is a choice that can be made every day, not just on special occasions.
The wedding industry often overlooks the deeper emotional connections that truly matter.
Sound Bites
"You are powerful."
"You have to own it."
"You get to choose that."
 
Connect with Jess on Instagram & Tiktok!
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:51 The Journey of Becoming a Wedding Photographer
04:07 The Desire for Change and Intimacy
07:59 Shifting from Weddings to Elopements
10:11 The Importance of Slowing Down and Reflecting
15:27 Empowering Yourself and Making Intentional Choices
26:37 Navigating Marriage and Societal Expectations
30:40 Beliefs and Reality
32:33 Trusting and Loving Ourselves
34:28 The Ripple Effect of Self-Love
43:39 The Power of Taking Ownership
47:06 Love as a Choice
 
 

Connie, of Connie Chen Photography, is a wedding photographer and bride-to-be. In this episode she shares her unique perspective on elopements. She discusses how she got into wedding photography and her love for capturing the interactions and emotions between people.
 
Connie and her partner decided to elope because they wanted a low-key, intimate wedding that reflected their personalities. They chose a location in Washington and hired a photographer who they had been following for years. Connie emphasizes that elopements don't have to be just the couple; family can be included too. She also discusses the importance of making decisions based on what feels right for the couple, rather than trying to please others. Connie and her partner plan to have a small at-home reception to celebrate with family and friends after their elopement.
 
The conversation explores the importance of setting boundaries and making intentional choices when planning a wedding. It discusses the pressure to conform to societal norms and the need to prioritize personal preferences and desires. Connie and I share our personal experiences and offer advice on how to create a wedding day that reflects the couple's unique personalities and values. We emphasize the significance of knowing oneself and being intentional about the who, what, where, why, and how of the wedding. The conversation also touches on the evolving nature of weddings and the freedom to challenge traditional expectations.
 
You can find Connie at https://conniechenphotography.com/ 
Give her a follow on Instagram & Tiktok! (She is posting TikToks on the cross-country drive out to WA for their elopement so definitely check it out). 
 
Sound Bites
"Elopements don't have to be just the couple; family can be included too.""Choosing a location and a photographer are important first steps in planning an elopement.""Making decisions based on what feels right for the couple is more important than trying to please others.""It's your wedding day. Like, why are you doing something that you don't want to do?""Boundaries are so important. They just let everybody have a great time because then people's feelings don't get hurt and you have space to be yourselves.""When you are really selective about the people that you choose to spend your wedding day with, it's almost like they know that they made the A-list and it's like, they feel special too."
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background03:04 The Decision to Elope and Choosing a Location08:04 Selecting Your Photographer15:09 Making Decisions Based on What Feels Right25:04 Celebrating with a Small At-Home Reception28:45 Setting Boundaries and Prioritizing Personal Preferences36:03 Knowing Yourself: Reflecting Your Unique Personalities and Values46:48 Creating a Fun and Stress-Free Wedding Day51:01 Challenging Societal Norms and Evolving Weddings

Monica Welch, owner of Vaux Studio in Philadelphia, shares her journey of starting a small wedding venue and the evolution of the small wedding industry. She explains how she was inspired to create a space for smaller weddings after struggling to find a venue for her own intimate wedding. Monica discusses the societal pressure to have a big wedding and the financial consequences that come with it. She emphasizes the importance of being true to yourself and your partner when planning a wedding and the significance of being present on your special day. When deciding what type of wedding is best for a recently engaged couple, it is important to have open and honest conversations about wants, needs, and financial feasibility. Couples should prioritize their own desires and not feel pressured by others' expectations. Smaller, more intimate weddings allow for more personalization and the ability to invest in what truly matters to the couple. Celebrating the wedding over a longer period of time, such as with a reception or anniversary party, can spread out the festivities and make the experience more enjoyable. It is also important to remember that there are no longer strict rules or stigmas surrounding weddings, and couples have the freedom to create a day that is unique and meaningful to them.
 
Check out Vaux Studio's Website and Instagram. 
Check out the book Vaux Studio's couple Herbie & Chris were featured in, here. 
 
00:00 Introduction and Background of Vaux Studio
02:50 The Evolution of the Small Wedding Industry
09:12 Navigating Societal Pressure and Financial Consequences
15:07 The Importance of Being Present on Your Wedding Day
27:12 Deciding on the Best Type of Wedding
28:55 Prioritizing Your Desires and Needs
31:42 The Benefits of Smaller, Intimate Weddings
32:42 Spreading Out the Wedding Celebrations
43:09 Breaking Free from Traditional Wedding Expectations

Amber Gordon, a trained marriage and family therapist turned leadership and lifestyle coach, shares her whirlwind wedding experience and the challenges she faced in staying present and relaxed on her big day. Despite having support from staff and a bridal party, Amber felt overwhelmed and in hostess mode throughout the wedding. She reflects on the pressure to make everything perfect and the performative nature of weddings. Amber and Daniela question whether wedding vendors prey on couples' vulnerability by promising to capture every moment, knowing that couples may struggle to remember the day. She also discusses the importance of setting boundaries and creating a more intentional and relaxed wedding experience. In this conversation, Amber and Daniela discuss the importance of prioritizing self-care and emotional well-being during the wedding planning process. They emphasize the need for couples to have permission to make choices that align with their own desires and values, rather than feeling pressured to meet others' expectations. They also highlight the significance of slowing down and being present with each other on the wedding day, as well as creating buffer time in the timeline to allow for relaxation and connection. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the couple's experience and emotional regulation throughout the wedding journey.
 
Takeaways
Weddings can be overwhelming and lead to a lack of presence and relaxation for the couple.
The pressure to make everything perfect and ensure guests have a good time can take away from the couple's experience.
Wedding vendors may capitalize on couples' vulnerability by promising to capture every moment, knowing that couples may struggle to remember the day.
Setting boundaries and creating a more intentional and relaxed wedding experience can help couples be more present and enjoy their special day. Couples should have permission to make choices that align with their own desires and values, rather than feeling pressured to meet others' expectations.
Slowing down and being present with each other on the wedding day is crucial for a meaningful and enjoyable experience.
Creating buffer time in the timeline allows for relaxation, connection, and emotional regulation throughout the wedding journey.
 
00:00 Introduction and Background
09:14 The Performance of Traditional Weddings
23:25 The Role of Gender Expectations
28:43 Are wedding vendors preying on couples' vulnerability?
38:31 Nervous system regulation for wedding vendors and couples
45:55 Step one: Timeline regulation
54:12 Slowing down and being present with your partner
 
You can find Amber's podcast, The Sacred Leadership Podcast, here.
You can follow Amber on Instagram here. 
 
For questions or if you'd like to be on the podcast, please reach out to empoweredelopementpodcast@gmail.com 
 
Thanks for listening :) 

Hello and a wholehearted welcome to the Empowered Elopement Podcast!
My name is Daniela Monzi and I am so glad you’re here. 
In case you don’t know me, I am a destination elopement and intimate wedding photographer based out of San Francisco and Philly. I made the transition to focus solely on smaller weddings 2 or 3 years ago, and it’s been life changing for me. 
I got interested in elopements because my husband and I ended up eloping and it was the best decision we could have made. However, we didn't feel supported and the process was really eye opening. As an elopement photographer, I didn't want my clients to ever feel the way we did. 
My hope for this podcast is to share stories and tips for getting married, in maybe a non traditional way. I really want to hold space for those who don’t see themselves or their type of dream wedding represented in the wedding industry. 
I know this podcast is called the Empowered Elopement Podcast, but my hope is not to alienate anyone having a large wedding.
My goal is to amplify the voices of the smaller, ‘non traditional’ weddings, as well ask important questions about the wedding industry and the rituals we have today. 
The most important thing to me on my wedding day, and on each couple’s wedding day that I photograph, is being present.
I want everyone to be able to FEEL what it is to get married. When you’re buzzing through the day, and have a million people around you for 14 hours straight, it can be a lot to your nervous system.
I want to talk about ways to make your wedding day, big or small, feel really intentional. I want you to feel empowered in the choices you are making when it comes to your wedding day. I want you to do what makes YOU happy, not anyone else. 
I truly just want to create a safe place where we can talk about the things that people don’t talk about. Like, how actually stressful it is to get married, how much time, money and energy it takes to plan a wedding. 
I think hosting a podcast is the perfect role for me because I have always been that curious girl who asks a million questions. Ask my friends and family, it sometimes drives them nuts how many questions I ask. 
I want to lean into this part of myself, and hold space for these sometimes tough conversations. I sure wish a podcast like this existed when I was engaged. 
If you have any suggestions for people I should interview, or you would like to be a guest on the show, please send me an email at empoweredelopementpodcast@gmail.com 
That’s all for now. I can’t wait for you to hear the episodes I have been pouring my heart into the last few months. 
See you in episode one!