How To Elope
What does it mean to Elope?
“…to run away secretly with the intention of getting married usually without parental consent”
Here’s the thing, you don’t have to “run away” to get married, you can if you’d like but you can also Elope simply because YOU want to. Some couples like to include their immediate family in their Elopement plans. This seems to be the case more often these days! I get it, some couples don’t want to have a HUGE party with lot’s of people, this is a great option if you don’t want that.
You’re here for a reason and that is because you’re planning to Elope and need guidance or you’re deciding if Eloping is for you! Either way, I know this will help you prepare for your big day.
How To Elope
Dream It
Plan a date night to go over all of your ideas! The main focus of this is to compile different location ideas and the time of the year you want to Elope.
Most couples hire me during the 1st or 2nd step - I am your personal guide and can help you bring your vision to life!
LOGISTICS
Now that you’ve dreamed up what you’re wanting to do for your Elopement it’s time it set that budget and get real. Price out different vendors, logging and flights if needed. Set a realistic budget for your special day!
Check the law
You will have to decide if you want to sign papers prior to your day or at your day. When travelling for your Elopement it can be easier to sign papers prior to! Make sure to check all the laws such as; do you need a license? How long does it take? Do you need a city hall appointment? Do you need any witnesses, if so, how many? Depending on where you go you can have a friend or family member marry you, again, you will have to look into this further for your location
Book your travel & vendors
Booking your travel and vendors as far in advanced as possible is the best decision you will make! This helps reduce the stress and it gives you extra time to pay things off if needed. Think about a place you either want to have significant meaning or does, I always suggest going to that location to Elope! It does not need to be a fancy destination if you don’t want it to be.
Plan the Ceremony
There are many things to think about when planning your ceremony. What will you wear? What time do you want to do it at? Where do you want to do the ceremony? Do you want to exchange vows or do traditional vows? Do you want a bouquet? There are so many options when it comes to the ceremony! It can be whatever you want.
Finalize The Details
The big day is approaching and it’s time to finalize all of the details & to get everything prepared for the day. Make sure you have all of the vendors you need booked, gather all of the accessories and details and book any extra activities you want to do while on your adventure.
Post Elopement Party
This part is optional but I find couples love to throw post Elopement Parties! This is a great option if you want to make others feel more “included” in your special day. It can be a small intimate gathering or a large party with all your friends and family.
The Big Day
YAY! All of the planning is done and it’s time for you to enjoy your day to the fullest. You both worked damn hard to have the best experience possible so let’s celebrate your love story
Announcements
Once you’ve tied the knot, let everyone know you Eloped by sending them announcements. You can make a social media post or you can print cards off and send them to friends and family. Heck, you can even have a dinner party and announce it there! Whatever is most comfortable for you both as a couple.
Do’s
→ Prepare for your friends and family reactions - If you don’t plan to tell them prior to Eloping. Everyone will have mixed feelings and it’s good to prepare for that.
→ Hire a Photographer, Planner and Videographer - Just because you’re not having a traditional Wedding doesn’t mean you shouldn’t hire vendors. Your day is worth the investments to be able to cherish the memories and to make the day run as smoothly as possible!
→ Witnesses - Make sure you are choosing witness(s) who are important to you and will support your decision no matter what. Not all locations require a witness so make sure to plan for them if you need them. If you really don’t want to include your own witnesses you could ask your photographer/videographer to sign.
Don’t
→ Don’t forget to take care of legal information - It is important to have this all figured out PRIOR to your Elopement day. You would hate to show up to tie the knot and not be legally able.
→ Don’t shrink your budget - I find couples have this misconception that since they’re eloping it will be incredibly cheaper. While you do save money since you won’t be needing to feed people or rent venues; Eloping can still cost a decent amount. Budget accordingly for the things that mean the most to you.
→ Don’t downplay your Elopement - You deserve a joyous and excitement filled day! Your day is just as special as a couple having a traditional Wedding. That is worth celebrating!
Looking for an Elopement Photographer?
I am a certified professional photographer and I can help you bring your DREAM Elopement to life! With help planning along your Elopement journey to make you day as stress free as possible.