We get it– the big white wedding isn’t for everyone. That doesn’t mean you can’t have a beautiful wedding day! For many couples, eloping is becoming more and more appealing. Whether it’s to save money for something bigger, to keep the celebrating small and intimate, or because they don’t have time to plan a big wedding, couples opt to elope for so many different reasons. So if you’re thinking of running off into the sunset together, you need to know a few things first!
1. You should still book a photographer. No matter how big or small your wedding is, you’ll want pictures. Trust us. No one ever regretting having amazing photographs of their wedding. We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again. Don’t skimp here.
2. Decide where! You can elope locally at a courthouse, take off to a favorite super secret location, or go for a destination elopement. Some couples opt to invite parents or a very close friend, others keep it just the two of them, and an officiant (if you’re not opting for the courthouse route). It’s all up to you!
3. Research license requirements and restrictions in the place you’ll be getting married. If you’re not eloping locally, research the license requirements for where you will be getting married. Some places require a certain waiting period, or your license is only good for so long after you get it. In most cases, you’ll both need to be present to get your license, so don’t forget to plan for that as well. This is a pretty big detail you don’t want to be spontaneous on!
4. Tell your parents. Just tell them. Even if it’s a difficult conversation. This is not something to tell mom and dad about after the fact!
5. Figure out if you need a witness. Some places require witnesses to marry. If you are eloping to a place where you’ll need one, decide who it will be.
6. Figure out what you’re wearing. You can still opt for a white dress if you’re eloping, but feel free to think outside the box– a colored dress, your favorite jeans and leather jacket, or a chic cocktail dress are all fantastic options. Whatever makes you feel special!
7. Plan a celebration (maybe)! Some couples opt for a dinner or small reception after they’ve eloped to celebrate with their loved ones. If that’s something you want to do, plan it and spread the word.
8. Do the thing! Pack your car, buy your plane ticket, grab your honey and do the dang thing! Your wedding– no matter what it looks like– should be about you and your partner. It’s the beginning of an amazing new chapter, and should be celebrated however you both see fit!
Looking for more planning tips? Find them here!
