Is the idea of a big bridal bash just not your thing? Perhaps you and your partner are the super spontaneous types always looking for an unconventional adventure. Maybe you’re trying to save money for a new life together and just realized your next beach vacation could easily pull double duty as your nuptials as well. For these reasons, among others, many couples are opting to eschew tradition in favor of a quick and swift elopement.
But first, what exactly is elopement?
Eloping is a marriage conducted without the knowledge of the couple's family and friends, particularly their parents.
Typically, those who elope only have a ceremony and do not host a reception or celebration.
Once you’ve decided to elope, you’ll want to follow these steps.
While elopements tend to be easier on the wallet than a big wedding, they aren’t without their costs. Sit down with your partner and start talking numbers. How much of your savings or disposable income are you willing to allocate to this? Be realistic about your expectations and your funds. Don’t forget to factor a little wiggle room for any unexpected costs. Your budget will guide the rest of the process and help you navigate any difficult decisions with its firm bottom line.
The most daunting part of any wedding is usually the price tag. Traditional weddings with a larger guest list can get pricy when you add up invitations, decor, venue, food, and time. A conventional wedding costs an average of $19,000 despite the pandemic. That is even with the massive reduction in the allowable guest count. On the other hand, elopement gives you flexibility on how you want to spend your budget.
Elopement packages are an affordable alternative to the couple on a budget — or for the couple who wants to put their funds toward the honeymoon.
Elopement weddings offer couples full command of their day. With less people in attendance, you don’t have to make concessions to please everyone. Attire can vary; ceremonies can be religious or secular; you can choose to have a reception or to skip it. They can be spur-of-the-moment, or you can plan them out a year in advance.
This day is about your commitment to each other, so, why not take the financial and social pressures off the table?
That way you can focus on what’s most important-each other.
If a courthouse ambiance just doesn’t do it for you, consider what locations you’re magnetized to. Perhaps there’s a place that has a significant role in your relationship or holds special meaning for one of you. Or, maybe the visual appeal of a location just feels right for the occasion. Let these preferences guide you, keeping your budget in mind. Destination elopements can be as extravagant as a far-flung getaway or as close to home as, well, right in your backyard.
The beauty of an elopement is that there are endless options as to where to hold your ceremony. As a result, elopements can happen in nature, in public parks or buildings, at someone’s residence, or even a family member’s property. Did you want to recite your vows on a beach? Were you hoping to have the mountains as your backdrop as you say your I-do’s?
With an elopement, the destination is essentially wherever you’d like it to be, without worrying about a hefty deposit on a wedding venue.
As they usually require minimal setup (if any at all), the opportunities for ceremony locations are open as far as you can imagine.
Are you a couple who likes to travel? Do you have a country you are both obsessed with, to the point that you imagine yourselves getting married there? Then, what’s stopping you? A traditional wedding abroad will cost you a significant sum, but that isn’t the case with these intimate affairs. Having a destination wedding is one of the perfect reasons to elope. Not only will you get to marry in a country that you both love, but it also won’t cost you as much since you only have to think about yourself and your partner when budgeting – plus, eventually your closest circle. Consider it as having a vacation at the same time. Isn’t that amazing?
Regardless of the locale, the marriage needs to be legally recognized—unless you prefer a spiritual union. Research the various legal requirements, location permissions, or guidelines you may need to follow. Do you need a license? How long will it take? Are witnesses required, and what are their necessary credentials? These are the questions you should be asking yourself if you want your elopement to go off without a hitch.
Destination elopement planners can be a major asset in navigating this terrain in foreign environments.
Just because you’re having an intimate wedding doesn’t mean you’re completely on your own. “While many elopements, by nature, tend to be last-minute decisions, I highly advise couples not just to wing it.
Hiring a local wedding planner can take a lot of stress off the couple.
Plus, a planner can suggest really special or under-the-radar places that you might not already know. Also, make sure you hire both a photographer and a videographer to document your day. This is especially important for elopements because it allows you to share the moment with friends and family who could not be there.”
Just because you're eloping doesn't mean that the day isn't special—it's still your wedding and there is reason to be excited and celebrate.
Don’t forget to indulge in the bridal aspects of your day. Get a special dress and a bouquet and perhaps even set up a table, complete with your dream centerpiece, a bottle of champagne, and dinner for two.
If you are ready to elope and you like to do it on our beautiful island of Fuerteventura, do not hesitate to contact us. Picnic Fuerteventura is ready to make your dreams come true.
Hope to meet you soon!
