Have you ever thought of exchanging vows in the middle of the forest, next to a waterfall, on a clifftop, or under the starry sky, away from the pressure and the stress of a traditional wedding? If so, you are not alone. Elopements are now becoming a popular choice among couples nowadays. If you want to say ‘I do’ in an intimate and personal setting, then elopement is the way to go.
Wondering how to plan an elopement? This step-by-step elopement guide will walk you through each step of planning an elopement, from setting the budget to selecting the perfect attire and the location. We will also include an elopement checklist so you can plan your big day with confidence.
Why Choose Elopement?
Traditional big weddings are not for everyone. They not only are costly but also come with the stress of planning and the pressure of selecting an appropriate location for hosting a big event.
Eloping, on the other hand, does not break your bank. It comes with no stress and gives you a chance to choose from plenty of locations whether you want to have a wedding on the beach, in the forest, or atop a cliff.
Moreover, elopements focus more on the couple and what they want. You can either choose to elope with zero guests or with a few guests. But remember, the number of guests you are going to have at your elopement is going to affect what your wedding is going to look like and the available locations.
Elopement is nothing like your traditional weddings. It’s about focusing on the commitment you’re making to each other rather than worrying about the expectations of others. Whether you’re looking to escape the spotlight or simply want a day that’s all about you two, eloping can be the perfect choice.
The Step-by-Step Elopement Planning Guide
Planning your elopement day starts with imagination. You need to first imagine what you want your day to look like. Here is a simple breakdown of steps you’d want to take while planning your big day:
- Imagine your elopement day
- Elopement budget planning
- Choose between guests or no guests
- Pick the date
- Choose the perfect location
- Legalities and documentation
- Book travel and accommodation
- Planning the ceremony
- Choose the elopement attire and accessories
- Hire the right vendors
- Create a final timeline for your big day
Let’s discuss these steps in detail and discover how to plan an elopement ceremony in detail.
Step # 1: Imagine Your Elopement Day
When it comes to your wedding day, you need to start by thinking about what you want your big day to look like. Of course, both you and your partner are going to have different ideas regarding your wedding. A good exercise is to sit together and write down three things which are important for both of you.
Obviously, the most important thing is getting married, but you still need to discuss what else you want. Discuss whether you want to have your family around or not, whether you want an outdoor event or an indoor event, and whether photography and floral arrangements are a good option.
Brainstorming these ideas will bring both of you to the same page and will affect what your day will look like.
Step # 2: Eloping Budget Planning
Once you know what you want at your wedding, the next step is to plan a budget. Although elopements don’t cost as much as traditional weddings, there still are some expenses that need to be carefully considered.
Here is why setting a budget matters: setting a budget will help you make the right decisions, making sure that you can afford all the elements of the elopement. Start with how much you want to spend on travel and accommodation. Then, set the budget aside for attire, photography, or any other vendors that you might need. It’s always necessary to have some extra money set aside to cover unexpected costs.
Tip: Think of what matters to you the most. Is it the attire? Photography? Or the location? Prioritize these elements in your budget so you know you are investing in what matters the most.
Step # 3: Choose Between Guests or no Guests
One of the major decisions you’d have to make while planning your elopement is whether you want to invite guests to your ceremony or keep it between the two of you.
Elopement without guests can be an incredibly intimate experience, one where you’ll get to focus all your attention on each other. This option is ideal for couples who crave privacy and don’t want to deal with the stress of planning a traditional wedding.
On the other hand, if you plan to have an elopement with guests, you get a chance to share your special day with your loved ones. This might include a few close family and friends who are supportive of your decision to elope.
Although having or not having guests is an entirely personal decision, it is essential to remember that this decision can affect the cost of your wedding.
Tip: Guests can change the focus of your wedding, so keep the number of guests minimal, just between 2 and 6.
Step # 4: Pick the Date
Once you know the location and whether you want guests at your wedding, it is time to pick the date. If you are planning to have an elopement at a public place, opt for a weekday since these places can get really packed on weekends. Opting for a weekday can give you the seclusion and the privacy you are looking for.
Step # 5: Choose the Perfect Location
Nowadays, courthouse elopements are very popular, with many couples obtaining their marriage license and getting married there and then. Although this choice is relatively cheap, it is not spontaneous or adventurous enough.
One of the best things about elopement is that it comes with flexible location choices, so you can get married wherever you want.
If you are an adventurous couple, you might want to have a destination elopement. Think about getting married in front of a waterfall, on top of a cliff. You can even choose a spot that played a significant role in your relationship or is important for both of you as a couple. Give these considerations a thought, explore other options, and choose a location, keeping your budget in mind.
Step # 6: Legalities and Documentation
Before you get carried away with the romance of it all, there is something really important to consider, i.e., the legalities and the documentation.
We recommend researching all the legal requirements you need to fulfill before getting married in a different country or state. Every country or state has different legal requirements for getting married, so it is important to research these well in advance so your marriage is legally recognized.
Here are a few steps to help you get started:
- Research the marriage laws at your chosen location. This means you need to look into residency requirements, waiting periods, and whether you need witnesses or an officiant.
- You need to apply for a marriage license. The process and fee varies depending on the location, so make sure you understand what’s required.
- If you’re having a destination elopement, consider how you’ll handle the paperwork. In some cases, you may need to have documents translated or apostilled (a form of international certification).
Step # 7: Book Travel and Accommodation
Selecting how you are going to travel to the location and selecting the accommodation are also integral steps of planning an elopement. Remember to buy the tickets and make the reservations well in advance to get the best rates and to ensure that the location is available on the dates you want to get married.
If you are having an elopement in another country, it is best to arrive a few days early. Arriving a few days early will let you adjust to any time differences and give you a chance to handle any last-minute details.
Step # 8: Planning the Ceremony
Your elopement ceremony is the heart of your special day. Here is how you can plan your ceremony:
- Pick your vows, take your time, and choose words that are meaningful.
- Depending on where you are eloping, you might need an officiant to make your marriage legally binding.
- Who said elopements are not traditional? You can always add a traditional element to your elopement.
- Even though you are eloping, you can still plan some special elements such as music, floral arrangements, or a special background.
Quick Tip: Don’t forget to check the weather forecast and have a backup plan if you’re planning an outdoor ceremony. A little preparation can save your day from unexpected showers or wind.
Step # 9: Choose the Elopement Attire and Accessories
One of the exciting parts about eloping is choosing the elopement attire and accessories. Your elopement outfit should be all about your unique style and personality. Here are a few things you should consider when selecting a dress for yourself.
- Unlike a traditional wedding, you have the freedom to wear whatever you want at an elopement. You can choose between a formal gown, a chic jumpsuit, or something casual.
- Pick shoes that are perfect for the location. For example, if your elopement location involves a hike, heels would not be the best choice.
- Accessorize with a veil that goes with your dress and jewelry that holds sentimental value.
Step # 10: Hire the Right Wedding Planners
Just because you are eloping doesn’t mean you have to do everything on your own. Hiring the right wedding planners can make all the difference and make your day stress-free.
Experienced planners can turn your dream into a reality. From organizing and timing every single detail of your big day to searching for the perfect vendor, your wedding planners will enusre that your day is one-of-a-kind, intimate and unforgettable.
Quick Tip: When choosing wedding planners, read reviews, view portfolios, and schedule consultations to be sure they understand your vision and can deliver the quality of service you expect.
Step # 11: Create a Final Timeline for Your Big Day
Once you have planned everything, it is now time to create a final timeline. A timeline will keep everything on track and running smoothly.
When creating the timeline, include the morning preparations and start your day with a relaxed morning routine.
Moving onto the ceremony, schedule the time you want the ceremony to be held. Keep various factors, such as lighting, weather conditions, etc., in mind when scheduling your ceremony.
Decide what you’d be doing after the ceremony, whether you’d want to have a photoshoot, go for a secluded walk, or have a romantic dinner.
Step-by-Step Elopement Final Checklist
Before you say “I do,” use this final checklist to ensure you haven’t missed any important details:
- Think of what you want your wedding to look like.
- Decide whether you want any guests at your elopement or not.
- Choose a location
- Pick the date
- Confirm if all the legal requirements are fulfilled, including your marriage license and any required permits or translations.
- Double check your travel plans, including flight, accommodation, and transportation to and from the elopement location.
- Reach out to your chosen vendors to confirm details, timelines, and any special requests.
- Finalize your ceremony script, vows, music selections, and any special traditions or rituals you plan to include.
- Ensure that your attire and accessories fit and are ready for your big day.
- Double check if everything falls within the budget you have allocated for it in the first place.
- Make a timeline for the day to ensure everything runs smoothly without any hiccups.
Destination Elopement Tips
These few destination elopement tips are surely going to make your big day stress-free:
- Every country and state has its own marriage laws, so be sure to check all the legalities before getting married at your desired location.
- Book your travels and accommodations early for lower rates and availability.
- If you are planning to have guests, stick to between 2 to 6 guests.
- Opt for local vendors.
- Choose a wedding planner to make your elopement completely stress-free.
- Prepare a timeline for your big day to keep everything running smoothly and on time.
What to Do After an Elopement?
Here are a few things you should do once you and your partner have tied the knot.
- Tell close family before eloping to avoid surprises. Share photos or host a small gathering afterward to include them.
- Share your news with a formal announcement or printed cards featuring your wedding photo. Consider a dinner party for loved ones.
- Plan a post-elopement party or a one-year anniversary celebration.
- Clearly write on the invites that the event celebrates your marriage, not the ceremony itself.
Plan Your Elopement with Your Bali Wedding
Elopement is an exciting experience that lets you create a day that is uniquely yours. From choosing the perfect location to exchanging your vows and celebrating the day with your loved ones, everything contributes and makes your day even better.
Do you want to start planning your elopement? Contact Your Bali Wedding today or explore their Elopement in Bali packages and discover how Your Bali Wedding can help bring your dream to life.
FAQs
Q: Are elopements non-traditional?
A: No, elopements are not non-traditional. You absolutely have the choice to do whatever traditions you want for your elopement.
Q: Is it selfish to elope?
A: No, absolutely not. It is your big day, and you have the right to celebrate it the way you want to. If eloping seems to be the right choice, then do it!
Q: Why do couples choose to elope?
A: Couples choose to elope for plenty of reasons. First, it is an intimate wedding that gives them privacy and seclusion. Second, it does not cost as much as a traditional wedding. And last, it gives them an opportunity to choose between a number of locations.
Q: Is elopement a real wedding?
A: Yes, elopement is a real wedding. Elopement only means getting married in a private ceremony with a few or no guests.
Natalie is a seasoned expert in the wedding industry with over a decade of hands-on experience. She regularly writes for esteemed servers like “Bali Wedding” and “Wedding Venues,” offering her insights on Bali’s best locales for nuptials. With a deep understanding of the Island of Gods’ diverse landscapes, Natalie is the trusted voice for those seeking the perfect spot for their dream wedding.