The very word stirs up a feeling of romance: elopement. When done right, skipping the big wedding can not only save you a buck but prove your love to your fiancé in a grand way.
Intimacy is the new look for 2021. And not only because the pandemic has limited our ability to celebrate events in person. The pandemic has also allowed us to take a step back and think about what’s really important. Each other.
Before you rush off to shred your wedding invitations, though, take a look at this guide on how to plan an elopement. With these easy steps, you can make sure your wedding for two is as special as your fiancé is.
Think About How to Plan an Elopement
This one may seem obvious. However, it is a tremendously important step in making your dream elopement a reality.
To start planning, take a few minutes with your fiancé and brainstorm what your ideal day looks like. Do you want an outdoor ceremony? A destination wedding? What does the decor look like?
Once you have a solid idea of the type of elopement you want, you can think more about logistics.
Decide Details
For some people, elopement means a bare-bones ceremony. No guests, no catering, no drama.
For others, though, the ideal day includes parts of a traditional wedding cut down to fit the occasion.
Wherever you fall on the spectrum, don’t worry. There’s no wrong way to plan an elopement.
Pick a Venue
This is the point at which your elopement will start to feel real!
But with so many options to choose from, how do you make sure that you’re picking the right time and venue for you?
If you’re looking for a dramatic outdoor venue, tools like Google Earth Pro can help you find the greatest backdrop for your ceremony.
Or, if you prefer a more exotic destination, foreign locations offer a variety of scenic vistas with the added benefit of a built-in honeymoon.
And, of course, eloping in Vegas is a movie classic for a reason. With options for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies, your wedding for two will be a non-stop adventure.
Make Your Love Legal
While one of the benefits of eloping is privacy, even the most romantic ceremony doesn’t matter if you don’t have a permit. Before you head out, make sure to check out the marriage laws by state.
Additionally, if you’re getting married in a national park or on protected land, make sure to look at any special licenses required.
Plan Your Timeline
Your elopement will be one of those days you’ll remember forever. So make sure you have time in your schedule to do all those things that make an elopement special and uniquely yours.
Whether that means arranging for a special photoshoot, planning a fun excursion, or even lazing about the hotel, give yourself the time to enjoy your escape!
Have Fun
Don’t let stress get the better of you as you decide how to plan an elopement. As long as you relax and follow these steps, your elopement will be the romantic day you always dreamed of.
If you need more ideas for elopement or honeymoons, check out our other articles.
