In our last blog post we discussed some breathtaking locations for you and your loved one to run away to, but what does eloping mean? And how do you do it? If you’re considering eloping with your fiancé, then here are some things you need to know.
The term ‘elopement’ is typically used to refer to a quick or maybe secret marriage. It usually involves fleeing with your loved one to get married without planning or inviting anyone else.
Elopements aren’t as taboo as they used to be or solely a quick trip to Vegas. Nowadays, couples are personalizing their elopements. They are holding their ceremonies in amazing locations and maybe even inviting a few lucky guests. Overall, eloping is less consuming—financially and time-wise—than a traditional wedding. There are a few thing you need to get in order beforehand, so read on to learn everything you need to know if you’re considering eloping.
We eloped, what now?
Since eloping tends to be a spur-of-the-moment decision, it’s normal that some of your family and friends will be left out. While you aren’t required to invite anyone, this choice can often lead to some unhappy loved ones with hurt feelings. Make sure that you call your parents, friends, and the rest of the family either before or right after. Doing so will help avoid any unhappiness, leave you with more freedom and less guilt.
After you say ‘I do,’ send out a wedding announcement to let everyone know the good news. Try including a picture if possible, so your loved ones can share some piece of this special day with you.
How much does it cost to elope?
That really depends on you. If you want a less expensive wedding, then head to your local courthouse. You can also stay nearby at a resort or maybe public areas like a park or garden. The officiant who will marry you makes up most of the required cost, but it will be up to you if you want to jet away to a foreign country or say your nuptials on the beach. You can bundle your wedding and honeymoon together by getting married in another location and enjoying it for a couple of weeks.
The little stuff.
While running away to get married may be romantic, it’s not always as simple as that. You’ll need to get a marriage license and follow the requirements set by your city and state. It’s important to call ahead and fill out any paperwork or complete any tests that need to be done. Also make sure to bring any important documents like your ID, birth certificate, and divorce/death certificate if either of you has previously been married.
Unfortunately, some locations require a waiting period, so it’s always better to check first. If you plan on going abroad to elope, then research the requirements of that country to see what’s need for nonresidents to marry.
What do I wear?
Are you a fashionista? Or would you prefer to stick to something simple? Usually, brides who elope avoid spending thousands of dollars on their dress, so why not pick something you’ll wear again? You can stick with white and wear a simple cocktail dress or floor length gown. You can also go non-traditional and don something colorful. Your attire will mostly be based on the location of your ceremony. City hall wedding has a flexible dress code, so it’s really up to you.
Where do I go?
Anywhere! That’s the beautiful flexibility you gain with eloping. If you want to get married on a mountaintop? Do it–but also find an officiant willing to climb to the peak. If you want to spend the next week on a tropical island, then get married at your resort and enjoy the sun. Like we mentioned before, the world is your eloping oyster. You can do it anywhere.
Can I still have a traditional wedding or party after?
Of course! Couples that elope can still host a traditional wedding or party afterward. Just make sure you plan the details like location, dress, cake, and your bridal registry. It’s also important to hold the reception within the immediate weeks following your elopement. Hosting anything later would be in poor taste.
Eloping overview
When it comes right down to it, weddings can be both expensive and time-consuming. Hosting over a hundred people for a sit-down dinner complete with a live band or DJ will always be pricy—not matter how well you budget. Maybe you’d rather spend your wedding money on a killer honeymoon or a down payment for a new house. Whatever the reason, it’s no wonder that more and more people are seeking to elope.
