Eloping isn’t just about sneaking away to tie the knot; it’s a deliberate choice to celebrate your love in a way that feels uniquely ‘you.’ Choosing elopement over a traditional affair means that you get to have the wedding of your dreams with minimal stress and no distractions. Not interested in age-old wedding traditions? No problem. Want no one else there except the two of you? Sure thing. There’s no better way to ensure the most intimate, personal and meaningful of weddings than with an elopement.
So, whether you’re planning a secret getaway or a small gathering with a select few, here are a few tips to make your elopement as extraordinary as your love story.
Choosing your elopement location
It can be hard to choose your elopement location as the choices are virtually endless. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing the perfect location for your elopement.
Personal significance: Begin by reflecting on places that have special meaning for both of you. It might be where you first met, a spot that became a cherished getaway, or a destination you’ve always dreamt of exploring together. The more personal the location, the deeper the emotional connection will be.
Scenic beauty: Elopements often embrace the great outdoors, so consider the kind of landscape that resonates with your heart. Whether it’s the grandeur of mountains, the tranquility of a beach, the serenity of a forest, or the allure of a cityscape, let nature or urban charm complement your love story.
Season and weather: Now, think about the time of year you want to exchange your vows as it will often determine the entire look and feel of your wedding. Plus, it’ll play a big role in what kind of weather you can expect.
Accessibility: You’ll want to make sure that your chosen location is accessible for you, your partner, any guests you may be inviting and the vendors you’re working with. If you’re considering an elopement in a remote or secluded spot, you’ll need to figure out how to get there, what type of accommodations are nearby, and how things like flowers and decorations will be stored and transported.
Legal requirements: If your elopement involves a legally binding ceremony, research the specific requirements for marriage licences and officiants in your chosen location. Different places may have varying rules and regulations.
Logistics: Consider the logistics of your chosen location, such as accommodation options, nearby amenities, and the availability of any necessary services like catering or photography.
Travel: If you’re eloping abroad, you’ll need to factor in travel and accommodations into your budget. You may want to consider working with a travel agent who can book all your travel arrangements for you.
Deciding on your guest list
One of the biggest decisions when planning any wedding is who to invite. The beauty of elopements lies in their exclusivity, so keep your list to a bare minimum with just your closest friends and family members who will enhance the magic of the day. There’s a fine line between an elopement and a destination wedding; the number of guests you invite will make the difference between the two.
Sharing the news
Sharing the news of your elopement is a deeply personal choice, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Some couples relish keeping their elopement a beautiful secret, savouring the surprise when they announce their marriage later. Others involve a few close friends as witnesses, creating an intimate circle of shared memories.
For those who go on the adventure alone, modern technology offers the option of a heartfelt video call with family and friends, moments before or after the “I do’s.” This allows couples to share in the joy of their elopement while also keeping it private for themselves.
Figuring out vendors
Selecting the right vendors for your elopement is pivotal to crafting an unforgettable experience. While an elopement doesn’t need all of the same vendors as a traditional wedding, you still need to consider the essentials, like a skilled celebrant to officiate your vows and a talented photographer or videographer to capture every cherished moment.
You may also want to hire hair and makeup artists, a musician, a florist, and a caterer to provide a cake and a delicious post-celebratory dinner for two.
What to wear to your elopement
What to wear to an elopement wedding? The easy answer is, anything you want! Yes, an elopement is your chance to have your wedding your way, including what you wear. For brides, this can mean anything from a traditional white gown to a flowing bohemian dress or chic pantsuit. Want a splash of colour? Put on a cocktail dress or just a simple outfit that you love. Anything goes for an elopement, which is the only rule you need to follow. Just don’t forget to consider practical footwear that suits your chosen location.
Grooms have equally diverse options, from classic suits to casual attire like linen shirts and khakis, or rustic attire like suspenders and boots depending on your location and wedding theme. The key is to select complementary outfits so that both of your looks vibe together and with your elopement location.
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