So when it came to this question, this was something I honestly thought was pretty straight forward. But I was wrong. When you think of an elopement you likely picture in your mind some form of a quick wedding like running off to Vegas. Something last minute and not as special. If so, you probably thought eloping isn’t for you. Well I’m here to tell you that isn’t true at all! An elopement can be just as special as a regular traditional wedding if not more. Why? Because elopements focus on YOU as the couple and what matters to you. Not being overshadowed by the stress of a big wedding or family drama. You might be wondering why I am bringing this up. I want to bring awareness, if you will, to what an elopement could be. And what that could look like for you.
With how expensive weddings could be, some are wanting to go the non-traditional route. But what does that look like exactly? To some I’ve heard them say an elopement is 20 guests or less. In some cases you may want it to be you and your fiance’. Or maybe even 5 guests including the bride and groom. Whatever the case may be, it can be more intimate and less stress of a tradional wedding with hundreds of guests. Now what would you do all day? That’s the beauty of it! You can really do whatever you’d like! If you’d like to get married at a beautiful destination you can! Starting off the day getting ready at your airBNB and then have your wedding in a beautiful forest and go explore after, then go back to your airBNB for a great dinner by a personal chef. Or maybe you’re not super adventurous, that’s ok. Pick a spot that means something to you both.
I have had the pleasure of photographing a few of my friends weddings. One in beautiful Montana overlooking the moutains with about 15 guests plus a few extra on Zoom. Boy was that a fun day! After the ceremony we drove and hiked to a trail that had stunning waterfalls. The other at a friends home and had 8 guests including myself and the couple. And after had their first dance and cake cutting. Very nice and simple but still special. Both experiences showed me you don’t have to spend fortune on a wedding for it to be beautiful and special.