If you’re anyone with an Instagram account in 2020, I’m sure you’ve come across a stellar photo of a couple in wedding attire, standing on a mountainside – hair-blowing with florals in hand – and the caption says something like, “Gorgeous Colorado bluff elopement.” So, that’s great but what is an elopement and why should you do it?
I’ve got you covered with a couple of crucial answers and helpful tips on planning the elopement of your dreams! Keep reading to get the inside scoop.
What is an elopement?
An elopement is a small, intimate ceremony or ‘wedding.’ You throw out the large productions and tent rentals in exchange for a private vow exchange or adventurous ceremony hike. Elopements were traditionally seen as a quick, easy way to get married. And although that’s technically true (elopements are easier and quicker), they are now seen as an authentic wedding experience you can make completely your own!
Why should I plan an elopement?
The beauty of an elopement is that you and your love get to experience a more intimate day focused on your love and less-focused on all the traditions and wedding day etiquette. Whether you’re wanting a small gathering closer to home or you’re dreaming of a destination elopement (just the three of us + your officiant) on a mountainside – you get the freedom to choose. Hell, yes!
Less Stress
Many of our couples who decide to elope are engaged for shorter periods and experience less stress due to all the crazy wedding planning – because sampling tablecloth swatches doesn’t always scream “best-day-of-my-life” for some. As a photographer, it is so evident to see how couples worry less during the planning process especially if they are having a smaller, intimate elopement as opposed to a larger wedding!
Freedom to Plan
Another benefit to eloping is you still get to plan and create beautiful details for your day. If you’ve been dreaming of having an incredible bouquet of wildflowers or a homemade donut dessert bar, you can still do all those things! Many couples choose to host a post-elopement party or reception. You can plan for a smaller gathering with a chef-created dinner or you can plan a more traditional wedding reception with catering, first dances, and toasts! Don’t think eloping means you have to give up any wedding traditions you really love.
Save Money
Elopements usually mean a much smaller guest list which means less money to spend. Traditional weddings can get expensive, which isn’t ideal for every couple. Planning an elopement can help you save and cut your budget or free up more money to splurge where you really want – like that honeymoon in Bora Bora or that Lovely Bride dress you’ve been eyeing.
Better Photos
For some couples, this may be the #1 reason they choose an elopement over a traditional wedding: the photos. With all the freedom you have in your timeline and locations means we can get those wind-blowing wedding shots. You can choose a stellar location, whether local or destination, and we will set aside a few hours to explore and make all the wedding day magic.
Enjoy the Moment
At the end of the day, eloping means you get to push pause on all the craziness of typical wedding planning and just enjoy your celebration. You and your love get to experience what marriage is really about on your day – and that’s being together.
As a photographer, capturing the real and raw moments at your elopement are what I live for! I have multiple elopement opportunities for any couple planning their elopement. On top of taking some dang good photos, I can also help you plan your elopement with location and travel recommendations, timeline assistance, and more! We’ll ensure your elopement is perfect from start to finish!
If you’re recently engaged and still asking, “what is an elopement,” drop a message in my inbox here. I’d love to help you plan a freakin’ amazing day!
