Traditional weddings are not for everyone, and more couples choose an intimate and adventurous way to say their I do’s. 

Some people think eloping means you must run off to the local courthouse or Las Vegas without telling anyone. While you can still elope in Vegas (or at the courthouse), the definition of eloping has drastically changed. So, if you love adventure and romance and want to keep your guest list to a minimum, then elopement might be right for you!

Even though you have more flexibility when planning an elopement versus a traditional wedding, planning is just as important!

Planning Your Elopement

Saving money, avoiding fuss, keeping things intimate and personal, or avoiding family drama are all completely valid reasons to elope – just make sure you’ve thought a lot about your decision, and it’s what you both want.

Once you have made the decision, you must think about how you will tell family and friends closest to you. Whether you FaceTime the family to see the ceremony or post a photo of yourselves with a “We Eloped!” sign on social media, think through all family members’ angles.

Some couples choose to have a reception at a later date (post elopement). If this is the case for you, start locking down your location at least six months before your proposed date. A reception can also be an excellent way for your friends and family to get involved in the wedding festivities.

If you plan on getting married in a different state or country than where you live, do your research. You want to know the waiting period for a marriage license and witnesses. Most states require two witnesses to sign the marriage license. Some states/countries, however, have different requirements.

In addition to legal requirements, many popular destinations require reservations. Confirm the location, date, and time you plan to elope. Some places can accommodate you. But the more time you have to plan, the more options you will have, eliminating stress!

Importance of Photographing Your Elopement

Many couples will plan an elopement to save on the expense of a big wedding, but that doesn’t mean there won’t be costs. For example, you may want to spend money on a wedding dress, splurge on a honeymoon, or even host a large reception for friends and family to celebrate with you. Regardless, one thing you should consider investing in is photography.

A professional photographer will be able to capture every moment of your special day. And with an elopement, the couple often chooses an outdoor location where lighting and background scenery can be difficult to capture with a friend’s phone. It takes experience to get the perfect shot. 

B&B Photography wants to make all of your wedding dreams come true! We are a husband and wife photography team who believes every love story is epic and deserves to be preserved forever. Reach out to us today for a free consultation.