Eloping is a beautiful, intimate choice for couples dreaming of a day that's entirely their own, blending adventure, personalization, and intimacy away from the traditional wedding setting. In collaboration with Emily Charlotte, an esteemed destination wedding planner, coordinator, and stylist we've crafted a list of dos and don'ts specifically for those planning to embark on their elopement journey.
Drawing inspiration from our feature, 10 Gorgeous Intimate Weddings To Inspire Your Elopement, alongside Emily's expert advice, this guide serves as a comprehensive resource. It combines real-life love stories that embody the spirit of adventure and intimacy with professional tips for navigating your elopement. Together, they ensure your celebration is as beautiful and unique as your love story, offering practical advice and thoughtful tips every step of the way.
Dos for a Memorable Elopement
Do Make It All About You
Embrace the freedom elopement offers to create a day that truly reflects your personalities and love story. Ditch the conventions and focus on what makes your hearts sing together.
Do Understand the Legalities
Before anything else, get familiar with the legal requirements of your chosen location. This could mean securing a marriage license, figuring out if an officiant is necessary, or identifying if witnesses are needed. Each destination has its nuances, and it’s crucial to have all your ducks in a row for a seamless experience.
Do Select Your Spot
Whether it’s atop a serene mountain, by the glistening beach, or in the heart of a bustling city abroad, choosing where to elope is exhilarating. Consider what resonates with you as a couple. Do you share a fond memory at a specific place? Is there a dream destination you've both longed to explore? Let these questions guide your decision.
Do Enlist the Experts
A common misconception is that eloping means going it alone. Not so. Investing in a skilled photographer, and possibly a videographer, ensures your day is captured beautifully, giving you something tangible to reminisce over for years to come. Considering a planner familiar with elopements can also alleviate stress and add a professional touch to your day.
Do Decide on Your Dream Team
Thinking about who, if anyone, you want present is key. Eloping doesn't have to mean just the two of you. It's about creating an intimate experience that might include a handful of your nearest and dearest. Or perhaps, it’s an opportunity to truly revel in each other’s company, solo.
Do Spread the Word Your Way
After the deed is done, sharing your news is the next exciting step. Be it through beautifully crafted announcements, a digital photo album, or a casual gathering back home, letting your loved ones in on your joy is a part of the elopement journey.
Do Engage in Thorough Research
Investigate your elopement destination’s specific requirements for conducting a wedding. This includes understanding local laws, obtaining necessary permits for public spaces, and knowing the ins and outs of marriage licenses in your chosen locale.
Do Plan for Post-Elopement Tasks
Remember, the journey doesn’t end with saying “I do.” Consider sending out wedding announcements, managing a gift registry if you choose to have one, and completing any required formalities to ensure your marriage is recognized wherever you reside.
Do Broaden Your Venue Search
With fewer guests, a world of unique and intimate venues opens up. Explore places beyond traditional wedding venues to find a spot that truly speaks to your story.
Do Indulge in Luxuries
With the savings from eloping, consider splurging on aspects that enhance your celebration, like a lavish dinner or a dreamy honeymoon spot, adding a touch of luxury to your special day.
Don’ts to Sidestep Common Eloping Pitfalls
Don’t Feel Guilty
It's okay to choose a path that's right for you, even if it's different from what others may expect. Remember, those who love you will understand and support your decision.
Don’t Cave to External Pressures
It’s natural to face questions or even pushback from those who envisioned a more traditional celebration for you. Stand firm in your choice, knowing it’s what feels authentic to you and your partner.
Don’t Neglect the Celebratory Aspects
Eloping doesn't mean you can't indulge in the quintessential wedding elements. Splurge on that dress you love, order a bouquet that makes your heart sing, and don’t forget a decadent cake to cut into. It’s your day—make it special.
Don’t Overlook Post-Elopement Plans
Whether you desire a quiet dinner for two or a larger party down the line, thinking about how you’ll celebrate post-elopement adds an extra layer of excitement to your plans.
Don’t Forget to Document Everything
From the moment you start planning to the big day itself, keep a journal or a blog. Documenting your thoughts, feelings, and experiences enriches the journey and serves as a precious memento.
Don’t Overlook the Value of a Day-Of Coordinator
Even for the simplest of elopements, having someone on the ground to manage the logistics can free you up to fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Don’t Underestimate the Emotional Aspect
Prepare for a range of emotions from yourself and those close to you regarding your decision to elope. Communication is key to navigating this terrain with sensitivity and care.
Don’t Expect Everything to Be Cheaper
Be mindful that some costs don't decrease with the guest count. Services like photography may cost the same, so plan your budget with these considerations in mind.
Don’t Miss Out on Desired Elements
Just because you're eloping doesn't mean you can't have your dream wedding features. If you want a particular tradition or element in your day, go for it!
FAQs for the Elopement-Curious
“How do we know if eloping is right for us?”
Reflect on what matters most to you in celebrating your union. If the thought of a large wedding feels overwhelming or misaligned with your values, eloping may be the perfect fit. It’s about honoring your love in a way that feels true to you both.
“Can eloping actually save us money?”
Typically, yes. Eloping significantly cuts down costs associated with larger weddings. However, how much you save depends on your choices—location, attire, and whether you decide on a celebration afterward.
“What’s the best way to handle family and friends' reactions?”
Openness and honesty go a long way. Share your reasons and the significance of eloping to you as a couple. Most will understand and support your decision when they see the love and thought behind it.
“Is a post-elopement celebration a must?”
Not at all, but it can be a wonderful way to include your loved ones in your happiness. It can be as simple or as lavish as you like, on your terms.
How Do We Make Our Elopement Special?
Infuse your day with elements that are deeply personal and meaningful to you both. This could be writing your own vows, choosing a location that holds sentimental value, or incorporating a beloved tradition into your ceremony. Remember, elopement doesn’t mean skimping on the details that can make your day unforgettable.
How Can We Include Family and Friends in Our Elopement?
There are creative ways to involve your loved ones, even from afar. Consider live-streaming your ceremony, planning a celebratory gathering at a later date, or creating a wedding website to share your elopement story and photos.
What Should We Consider When Hiring Vendors for Our Elopement?
Look for vendors who have experience with elopements and understand the nuances of these intimate celebrations. From photographers to florists, choose professionals who resonate with your vision and can contribute to the personalized feel of your day.
Is There an Etiquette for Announcing Our Elopement?
Yes, while the rules are more flexible, it’s considerate to inform your closest family and friends personally before making a broader announcement. This can help manage emotions and ensure that those most important to you feel valued and included in your joy.
Choosing to elope is embracing a journey that's uniquely yours, a celebration of love that’s as distinct as your own story. It’s about making decisions that reflect what truly matters to you and your partner, turning your special day into a collection of moments that are deeply personal and joyously meaningful.
As you plan this beautiful adventure, remember, it's all about creating a celebration that resonates with your hearts. This is your opportunity to shape a day that feels like home, a day where every detail speaks to your shared dreams and desires.
Let this guide inspire you to weave those dreams into a day that's as unforgettable as your love, ensuring every step of your elopement is as heartfelt and genuine as the bond you share. Here's to celebrating love, in all its forms, on a day that’s perfectly yours.
