Why should I elope?

As you are sitting there stressed out planning your wedding, I’m sure the thought of elopement has crossed your mind. How nice would it be to have a low stress day with just you and your partner? Should I elope? If you are trying to decide between a traditional wedding and an elopement, I am going to tell you why you should choose the latter.

Save Money

Weddings are expensive. Like, really expensive. Between the venue, the catering, the flowers, and the endless list of other expenses, your wallet can quickly empty. Eloping with your partner gives you the flexibility to put your funds to what matters most – whether it’s an unforgettable trip, a down payment on a house, or simply keeping your savings intact. You can splurge on what’s important to you, like an amazing honeymoon or beautiful photos, and save on what is not.

Keep It Intimate

A big wedding often means inviting everyone – from your third cousin twice removed to your mom’s book club. Instead, eloping lets you keep your day focused on the two of you. It’s about your love and your commitment without the pressure of a huge audience. That doesn’t mean you can’t bring some family and friends along with you. Long gone are the days where elopement just means running off together in secret. It can mean that, of course, but it can also be a small intimate elopement with a few of your closest friends and family. Instead, you could also opt to have a small celebration with friends and family after you return. Elopement is all about doing whatever you want and what best fits your personality!

Less Stress, More Fun

Planning a wedding is stressful and can feel like a full-time job. The start of your partnership should not be filled with stress and worry, but should instead be a time of bliss. By choosing to elope, you can plan a day that’s meaningful to you without worrying about pleasing everyone else.

It’s even less stress when you have an experienced elopement photographer like me by your side. I will assist in all the planning – location scouting and finding vendors and everything in between. You can always reach out for questions.

Perfect for Adventure Lovers

If your relationship thrives on adventure, eloping is the perfect way to start your marriage! You can hike the glaciers of Alaska, or say your vows surrounded by the wildlife on an African safari. You can go scuba diving in the coral reefs or stargazing in a remote location. If you can dream it, you can do it. That is why elopement is so perfect for the adventurous at heart.

Freedom to Be Yourselves

Choosing an elopement gives you the freedom to make your day exactly what you want it to be. You can make it a unique reflection of exactly who you are as a couple. Want to get married in your favorite national park? Or would you prefer to say your vows at the cafe where you met? Do it. There are no rules or traditions you have to follow – just do what makes you happy!

Stunning Photos

Nowadays, the photos that capture the magical day are becoming more and more important to couples. If you decide to elope, the photos can capture not only you two together, but the beautiful backdrop and the epic journey of your day, including the smallest of details and intimate moments. When eloping, it’s important to choose a photographer who specialized in elopement photos, that way you get the jaw-dropping photos you deserve to showcase your special day forever.

Of course, I hope you choose me! You can see some more of my work here.

Quick and Simple

If you’re more into the idea of being married than planning a wedding, eloping is the way to go. It can be as quick and simple as you want it to be. There’s no need to wait a year or more to book a venue—just pick a date, a place, and go for it! Though it is important to check the legal requirements for marriage in your chosen location. Some places have a certain waiting period or specific paperwork.

A Focus on the Marriage, Not the Wedding

I think the ultimate reason to choose an elopement over a traditional wedding is that you can focus on the marriage and partnership itself, not on the details and grandiosity of the big day. With a wedding, the days leading up to it can shift focus away from the marriage, but with eloping, the emphasis is put on your commitment to each other – not some grand event. It’s a beautiful way to start your life together, centered on your relationship.

I hope this answered the question “why should I elope?” Eloping isn’t for everyone, but if the idea of a big wedding fills you with dread, it might be the perfect alternative. In the end, elopement is all about prioritizing what matters most – the love and commitment you share.