We always get very excited when we hear that some of our brides are eloping and we love the idea of it! The notion of not thinking about anyone else’s desires but your own, keeping the guestlist short, packing your things and jetting off with your loved one to an amazing destination, just the two of you! What a great story for your grandkids!

But let’s be real: an elopement does need a little bit of planning and we’ll tell you about some tips and tricks to keep in mind when planning your special day!

Do it for the right reasons. 

Saving money, avoiding family drama or just wanting to keep it as intimate and personal as possible are all completely valid reasons but it is important to make sure that this is what the both of you want!

Think about a Reveal Plan.

 This could be a big surprise party once you two lovebirds are back  from your trip. Or you could send out announcements cards or even if you just personally share it with your nearest and dearest. You want to make sure your loved ones will learn about it from you and not through the grapevine or even worse: on social media!

Think about what you want to say to them beforehand and be prepared. You don’t have to explain yourself but you both have to be on the same page when it comes to letting your friends and family know about the big news!

Find the perfect destination for you and don’t forget about the legalities.

 Whether you choose to say your “I do’s” in Paris with the Eiffel Tower in the background, in New York City or on a white sand beach in the Caribbean, you have to make sure you organize all the paperwork you need and research certain laws and rules about the marriage in that particular country. It is the easiest for you to find a local planner who can take care of these things and organize everything for you on site. It will be much more relaxed and stress free for you!

Find a local Photographer

Not only do you want to get some amazing photos of your very special day, it is also nice for your loved ones at home to see some pictures of what they have missed. So even though they weren’t with you they will still feel included and a part of your day. And obviously you want to capture your day for yourself to look back at!

Make it special.

 Only because it is just you and your significant other without guests doesn’t mean your elopement can’t be special! So whether you write your personal vows, ride in a limo to your chosen location, have your wedding cake for breakfast or end the day at a high end restaurant. Make it your very own special day for just the both of you!

Wear something special.

 You don’t have to wear anything white or “wedding appropriate” but do make sure you wear something that feels special to you on your wedding day. Choose a fun outfit whether that’s a jumpsuit, a short white dress, your grannys pearl earrings or even a full on wedding dress. Choose something you are comfortable in and rock it!   

Plan out your special day.

Even if it is just your partner and you, you should plan out your day a little bit and have a timeline in order to have a stress free day. Maybe plan a couples massage after breakfast or make a dinner reservation at a nice restaurant. You don’t want to spend time on your special day to google restaurants or call around so make sure you do that beforehand. 

Keep the costs in mind.

 A lot of couples plan an elopement instead of a big wedding to be saving some money but that doesn’t mean there won’t be costs. Your wedding license, bouquet, outfits, hair and makeup will all cost the same, no matter how many guests you have. We suggest asking your planner and photographer if they offer elopement rates, as you may require less of their time on the day. With that being said, if you can afford it, it’s no harm splashing out and upgrading to a fancy hotel on your wedding night, treating yourself to a fabulous meal or going all in on the Champagne – what’s the point in eloping if you can’t indulge a little?!