Elopement Planning Guide

Jan 26

(The Beginning Process)

WHY DO COUPLES DECIDE TO ELOPE?

Are you thinking about planning an elopement? More and more couples are deciding to have an intimate wedding for one reason or another. One of the obvious reasons is because of COVID regulations. Another is because couples want to spend the day with just the two of them and their love story. Some couples prefer a smaller guest list and more flexibility on locations. If you’re deciding to elope, here are some things to consider or help with the planning process.

ETIQUETTE AND THINGS TO CONSIDER WHILE PLANNING AN ELOPEMENT

Do tell your loved ones and close friends. They will understand, even if they are not on the guest list.
Don’t feel like you have to invite tons of people (maybe just parents, closest friends, or a witness)
Do send out a wedding announcement after the wedding.
Make sure you make it legal! Every city, state, and country has different requirements to make it legal. If you’re planning an adventure elopement and want to hold a traditional ceremony in the park, you will need to check their guidelines and paperwork.
Do plan on splurging on things that are important to you. As you might save money planning an elopement instead, it’s ok to spend money on a honeymoon suite, stunning outfits, a nice bottle of champagne, rings, and so on. Go ahead and buy that dream dress!
Choose a meaningful place, and use your favorite season as a guide.

DECISIONS TO MAKE

What kind of elopement do you want to have?

A courthouse wedding?

City elopement?

Adventure elopement in the mountains?

How about traveling internationally?

OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER

What kind of vendors will you hire? A few you might want to look into depending on what type of elopement you are having is a photographer, wedding planner, coordinator, or officiant.
When hiring a photographer for an adventure elopement, consider someone who has experience with this type of elopement or shot in the area. They will know how to be prepared and can get those stunning shots you might want.
How many guests do you want at the ceremony or reception? Some couples will have their ceremony with very few to no guests to make it more intimate but still plan for a reception afterward. However, having a reception isn’t necessary, as the day is supposed to be about the two of you!
Are you going to write your vows or use traditional ceremony vows?
What kind of styling will you wear? The great thing about elopements is that there is no pressure or limit to what kind of outfits you decide to wear. You can make it as wild or tame as you want!
Do you want a cake, invitations?
Are you going to have an altar? Some couples prefer a beautiful structural altar with flowers, while others decide to keep it more minimal. The altar could also be a structure in the venue, or if an adventure elopement, the stunning views of mother nature are an altar in itself.
Consider renting an AirBnB for your elopement.