What is an Elopement?
WHAT IS AN ELOPEMENT?
A Guide for the Modern Day Couple
What is an Elopement? A Guide for the Modern-Day Couple
You might’ve landed on this page because you’re considering eloping and trying to figure out what an elopement is. First of all, it’s amazing that you’re considering eloping!! Huge congrats on taking the first step in creating an intentional experience for you and your partner!
While this is an awesome time in your relationship, many questions start to come up about planning your wedding day: What type of wedding do we wanna have? What is an elopement? Are we big-wedding people? Is eloping right for us? If we’re eloping, how do we approach it? There may be so many unanswered questions, but the good news is that this is exactly what this blog is all about!!
So you are on the road to some of the most exciting days of your life and now you may be wondering how you and your partner should spend your special day. The good news is that your wedding day is all about you, your partner, and your love for each other, so it can look however you want. There are no rules and no “shoulds” or “should not’s.” The possibilities for planning an elopement wedding are endless!
What is an Elopement? - Modern Day Elopements Defined
First things first, what is an elopement? The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines elope as “to run away secretly with the intention of getting married, usually without parental consent.” Fortunately, though, this is no longer the standard meaning of the word, at least not in the modern-day sense. The term elope has begun to change over the past few years and has developed a new meaning from years past. No longer is eloping a representation of secrecy or shame, instead, it represents something more meaningful and intentional.
The word “elope” in today’s era means “a small destination wedding” and is used to describe getting married in a non-traditional or non-formal way and usually with more intimacy or intentionality.
Traditional weddings typically include things such as a venue, guests, wedding party, wedding cake, registry, vows, and a host of other traditions. Elopements can include some or all of these things—but they don’t have to. Couples are free to incorporate any traditions they choose, with no outside expectations. Those who elope tend to prioritize experience and intimacy over tradition.
Why choose to elope?
There are a number of reasons why couples may choose to elope instead of having a traditional wedding. One of the most common reasons I have heard from my couples is that they want to create an intimate day that focuses on them and their partner. This is one of the best reasons to elope because after all is said and done and the day is over, it will just be you and your spouse working together on your marriage, so shouldn’t your wedding day be focused on both of you and all the things that matter most?
Another common reason to elope is the experience. There are a number of ways to plan an elopement day, and it doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. Do you enjoy wine tasting or backpacking through the mountains? Maybe you and your partner have a favorite city to visit or love experiencing new places together. All of these can be incorporated into your elopement day, creating a unique experience and meaningful memories.
It’s no secret that weddings can be expensive, especially as the guest list grows. A big appeal for many couples who elope is the cost savings. Often, there’s no expensive venue, no catering for a large crowd, and no need for extra decorations or florals. On average, elopements cost less than traditional weddings, but that doesn’t mean they have to be cheap. It all comes down to what you and your partner value and how you want to spend your day.
When you elope, you’re cutting back on unnecessary extras that last only one day. Instead, you create an experience that you’ll treasure forever. This is your wedding day, your celebration—so why not make it exactly what you want?!
It’s also important to note that many couples don’t know where to start when planning an elopement, and while it might feel daunting at first—you won’t have to do it alone!
As your elopement photographer, I will guide you with what you’re after and assist you throughout the planning process!
Where can we elope?
You may be starting to consider the pros of eloping but are now wondering, “Where can we elope?” Is the only option a nearby city hall? No! The beauty of elopements is that you can choose where you want to go!
Have you and your partner always dreamed of traveling to a certain country? Do you love spending weekends at the beach or in a cabin in the mountains? Any of these locations can serve as elopement venues. And if city hall is your style, there are plenty of beautiful, historic buildings that make for stunning photo locations.
When deciding where to elope, think about the vibe you and your partner want—whether it’s peaceful, bustling, rugged, or moody. Then, consider places you love or have always wanted to visit that will make your day even more meaningful.
And of course, I can help you find the perfect spot! There’s a huge list of incredible locations that can match your vision and make your elopement truly unforgettable.
Who can we invite to the elopement ceremony?
Elopements are all about creating an intimate experience, but that doesn’t mean you have to be the only ones there. A ceremony is typically considered an elopement if it has 10 guests or fewer, so yes, you can have people present and still elope.
Some couples want family members or close friends to celebrate with them; others prefer just themselves and a vendor or two. There’s no “right” way—only what feels right for you.
Most places in the U.S. require an officiant and at least one or two witnesses, so be sure to check the legal requirements, especially for a destination elopement. As an elopement photographer, I’ve been honored to serve as a witness for many couples, and I’d be happy to do the same for you!
Eloping doesn’t mean giving up the idea of wedding guests—it means being intentional about who is there to share your day.
When can we elope?
The right answer is whenever you want! Whether you just got engaged, have been engaged for five years, or didn’t have a formal engagement at all—you can plan an elopement wedding. There’s no set timeline for planning or holding an elopement, and one of the best things about eloping is that it can be planned in just a few days or over a year.
Of course, there are a few things to consider when choosing the best time of year to elope, such as:
Weather—Do you love warm summer days or crisp fall air?
Location & Accessibility—Are certain spots harder to reach in winter?
Travel Seasons—Will your destination be crowded or more private?
Before deciding on a date, ask yourself: Do I want to embrace winter and go skiing or take a helicopter to a glacier? Or do I picture a summer elopement where we swim in a lake or jump into the Mediterranean to cool off?
The right season can make a huge difference in your elopement experience, and the possibilities are endless!
What Do We Need to Elope?
Outside of the obvious (you and your partner), the only things you need to elope in most places are:
A marriage license
An officiant to conduct the ceremony
Witnesses (depending on the state or country)
Documenting your wedding day is one of the most important aspects. And I don’t just say this because I’m an elopement photographer—I say it because photos are the best way to relive your experience and share it for years to come. Many times, elopement photographers also serve as planners and guides, helping couples with location decisions, timelines, and vendor recommendations.
Beyond the essentials, you can include other meaningful details like flowers or a reception meal. But if the planning process feels overwhelming, there are elopement packages and planners who can assist with everything from start to finish—so you can focus on what truly matters.
How to Know if You Should Elope?
Does the thought of hosting a large wedding stress you out? Do you love the idea of celebrating with just a handful of close family or friends? Would you rather skip the overwhelming planning that comes with a big wedding?
If you answered yes to any of these, then eloping might be the perfect option for you!
Eloping means doing it your way—celebrating your relationship without compromise. Talk to your partner about what you both want your day to look like. If intimate moments, meaningful experiences, and intentional planning are important to you, then an elopement might be the right choice.
Whether it’s a destination elopement, adventure elopement, or a simple backyard ceremony, the most important thing is creating a day that feels true to you as a couple.
Thank you for checking out this blog on “What is an Elopement?”
You may have landed on this page because you’re considering eloping yourself, and that’s amazing!! Congrats on taking the first step in creating an intentional experience for you and your partner!
While this is an awesome step, many questions start to come up; but don’t worry, that’s what I’m here for.
At first, this seems overwhelming, and I get it!! Planning an elopement isn’t an easy task. And while elopement planning may seem easier when compared to planning traditional weddings, but elopements actually require a TON of planning in a different approach. A much more fun, relaxed, freer, do whatever-the-heck-you-want-for-your-wedding-day kind of planning approach.
As one of the most important elopement vendors for your wedding day, this is where I come in! I’m here to guide you with absolutely EVERYTHING you need. I’m here to help you decide on the right location, how to prep for the big day, where to get permits, provide travel tips, location scouting, or literally everything in between…
I GOT YOU!!
I love helping couples create a memorable experience, and I’m ready to pass on everything that I’ve learned and have gone through over the years of being an elopement photographer so you and your partner can take a deep breath, focus on the things that matter the most and have the most meaningful, amazing and memorable day.
Ready to do this?? Get in touch and let’s get started on creating your awesome elopement experience!!
Meet Your Elopement Photographer
Hey! I’m Will Khoury and I’m here to help you create a memorable elopement experience that you’ll cherish for a lifetime! Apart from being your elopement photographer, I’m your guide, planner, location scouter, vendor resource, hype person, friend, and someone who’s going to encourage you and your partner to live your wedding day to its’ fullest. Because let’s face it, getting married is an awesome thing, and so should your experience be!!
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