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How to Plan an Elopement: FAQ About Eloping in Today’s World




If you’re tired of all of the planning that goes into a big wedding, you’re not alone. Many couples decide that eloping is the best way to go because it allows them to formalize their relationship without the stresses of a major event.


Eloping can be something that includes family knowledge, but it often excludes the parents. Most couples have a simple ceremony without a celebration or a reception.


FAQ About Eloping for Your Big Day


Searches for elopement ideas have more than doubled on Pinterest since 2019. If you have questions about this process, we’ve got some answers for you to consider!


Why would you choose to elope?

Most couples decide to elope because they want to eliminate the pressure of planning a perfect wedding. These events are more visual than ever with social media, and many people decide that they want to get away from the pressure, pomp, and circumstances by going somewhere else.


How much does it cost to elope?

The cost of an elopement depends on where you want to get married. If you stay near your home, the cost of your marriage license will be your primary expense. Some brides want to wear a gown for the event, while others want to keep things as affordable as possible.


You’ll also need to pay the Justice of the Peace to perform the ceremony. If you know an authorized party, they might do the work for a lower price.


If you travel for your elopement, it can help you save money by combining a destination wedding with where you’d like to have a honeymoon.


How can I save money while eloping?

Some elopement destinations (such as Las Vegas) offer wedding packages that provide the services you want for one lump sum. You can also hire a photographer, caterer, or whatever other service provider you want to have available for your event.


Many brides are finding that they can afford their dream dress, including bespoke options, by cutting out the costs of a bigger wedding. You can ask someone you know to take pictures, hire someone at your destination, or use selfies to document your time together.


What location should we choose for the ceremony?


Eloping is legal almost everywhere, but it isn’t easy to complete the paperwork at some

destinations. You’ll need to verify that local authorities recognize a marriage license issued outside your home state or province. This issue typically applies to international elopements.


Some people get married at the Justice of the Peace office. Others prefer natural settings, such as the beach or the mountains.


You can always get married at a drive-in chapel if that’s what fits your personality!


There isn’t a wrong answer here unless you don’t like the spot you’ve selected for your elopement. This entire process should feel fun and liberating instead of stressful and time-consuming.


Should I invite guests to my elopement?

You have a few guest options to consider if you’re thinking about eloping. You can decide to invite no one else except the photographer and the required witnesses that might be needed to verify the event.


Some couples create an elopement for a small destination wedding with up to 25 people. If you select this option, please remember that COVID-19 protocols can change at a moment’s notice.


You can also hire people to be your witnesses if your goal is to get married without fanfare. It’s whatever you feel works as a couple to create those first meaningful moments together.


What should I bring to the ceremony?

Since this ceremony is all about you, the items that get brought to it should reflect what you love. For many couples, that means bringing rings or another symbol of the relationship to exchange during the event.


Some couples decide to write their own vows instead of sticking to the preordained script.


If you or your partner have cultural or religious experiences that feel appropriate for the ceremony, you’ll want the items available to accommodate those needs.


Is it possible to hire an elopement photographer?

You can find a local photographer to document your elopement almost anywhere. Most

professionals need a little lead time to get their schedule set, which means it might be a little challenging to contact someone at a moment’s notice. The cost for this service varies, but it’s usually somewhere between $1,000 to $3,000.


If you’re thinking about eloping, it can be fun to splurge on some items to incorporate with your wedding. For many brides, that includes the dress! When you’d like help finding the perfect gown or a customized design to wear, our boutique can help you look and feel beautiful on your special day.






Contact us for more information or to schedule a FREE consultation meeting to design your Bespoke Bridal Gown!

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