15 Ways To Have a Perfect Elopement Wedding
Everything you need in the guide to planning an unforgettable elopement for those seeking sophisticated rose gold bridesmaid looks and all sorts of unique details. These 15 steps will help you plan the intimate wedding of your dreams, whatever kind of venue you’ve got your eye on: or anything in between, from a mountaintop ceremony to a beachside exchange of vows.
1. Choose Your Perfect Location
Consider places that symbolize the two of you as a couple. Everything from sun-kissed beaches to historic European cities are dependent on your venue. Learn what the local marriage laws, weather patterns, and accessibility are. After all, the perfect spot should be the same for it: the place that will give you some beautiful photo opportunities, that will fit into your budget and style preferences.
2. Set a Realistic Budget
Break down your expenses into categories: Accommodation, attire, travel, photography and celebration details. The thing some people love about elopements is that they are a much cheaper option for a wedding, but a buffer never hurts either in case there are unexpected expenses. Think about luxury accommodation, think about professional photography, and splurge on the things that matter most to you.
3. Handle the Legal Requirements
Find out about research marriage licenses, residency requirements and what documentation is required to live in the area you will be living in. Countries require waiting periods or witnesses. If international requirements are too difficult, think first about having a legal ceremony at home. If you work with a local wedding planner or coordinator, there’s a good chance they’re familiar with the local regulations.
4. Find the Right Photographer
Your photographer becomes one of the most important vendors for an elopement. Get pictures taken by someone who has intimate ceremony experience, staged and candid. Go and check their portfolio and see if they’ve eloped and if they offer the style you are looking for. If they don’t have the whole day booked, you can book them for the whole day to get ready moments and post-ceremony party time.
5. Plan Your Timeline
Look for a relaxed schedule which can be flexible. Traditional weddings are very rigid, whereas elopements are a lot more flexible. There will be time to get hair and makeup done, get dressed, ceremony, photos and celebration. Don’t forget to plan sunrise or sunset timing if you want specific lighting for your photos. Provide a built-in buffer for weather changes or other unexpected events.
6. Choose Your Attire
Select wedding attire that matches your location and what you are going to do. While thinking about comfort and practicality, don’t forget style. If you’re hiking to a ceremony spot, then choose appropriate footwear and portable attire. Make sure you don’t forget any weather-appropriate layers and accessories. But remember, your outfit should feel awesome and as though you can do your best all day.
7. Include Meaningful Details
Add in little bits to make it personal to you, but still make your elopement what you want it to be. Use heartfelt vows, or put family heirlooms or new traditions. Perhaps you’ll want to bring some small meaningful objects or have a symbolic ritual. These details help tie your ceremony to you and to make your ceremony yours.
