Elopement Weddings

Your elopement wedding may be small in size, but should still be magical. When it’s just you and the person you love, you can tailor your wedding to be exactly how you want—and completely unique to you. We’ve curated a collection of our favorite elopement weddings so you can see how other couples customized their Big Day, and to inspire your own personalization elements. Browse through ceremony styles, venue ideas, and design details, and hire the vendors behind the elopement weddings you love.

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59 Results
A Wedding Elopement for Danielle and Harry A Wedding Elopement for Danielle and Harry
A Wedding Elopement for Danielle and Harry
Vlichada, Greece
An Elopement for Carolin and Sam An Elopement for Carolin and Sam
An Elopement for Carolin and Sam
Brooklyn, New York
An Intimate Wedding for Deetu and Neal An Intimate Wedding for Deetu and Neal
An Intimate Wedding for Deetu and Neal
Washington, District of Columbia
An Intimate Wedding for Samantha and Tim An Intimate Wedding for Samantha and Tim
An Intimate Wedding for Samantha and Tim
Tremezzo, Italy
An Outdoor Wedding for Morgan and Aaron An Outdoor Wedding for Morgan and Aaron
An Outdoor Wedding for Morgan and Aaron
Amalfi, Italy
A Modern Elopement for Marlen and Zeke A Modern Elopement for Marlen and Zeke
A Modern Elopement for Marlen and Zeke
Round Rock, Texas
An Outdoor Elopement for Rini and Shabbir An Outdoor Elopement for Rini and Shabbir
An Outdoor Elopement for Rini and Shabbir
Falls Church, Virgina
An Elopement for Helena and David An Elopement for Helena and David
An Elopement for Helena and David
Wailea, Hawaii
A Waterfront Wedding for Chloe and Francis A Waterfront Wedding for Chloe and Francis
A Waterfront Wedding for Chloe and Francis
Santorini, Greece
An Elopement for Ashlee and Jeremy An Elopement for Ashlee and Jeremy
An Elopement for Ashlee and Jeremy
Santorini, Greece
An Elopement for Christine and Daniel An Elopement for Christine and Daniel
An Elopement for Christine and Daniel
Lanai City, Hawaii
An Intimate Wedding for Sarah and Danny An Intimate Wedding for Sarah and Danny
An Intimate Wedding for Sarah and Danny
Southold, New York
An Intimate Wedding for Sonny and Scott An Intimate Wedding for Sonny and Scott
An Intimate Wedding for Sonny and Scott
Austin, Texas
A Waterfront Wedding for Chelsey and Sadik A Waterfront Wedding for Chelsey and Sadik
A Waterfront Wedding for Chelsey and Sadik
Kapalua, Hawaii
An Elopement for Lauren and Troy An Elopement for Lauren and Troy
An Elopement for Lauren and Troy
Washington, DC
An Elopement for Carla and Franco An Elopement for Carla and Franco
An Elopement for Carla and Franco
Private Residence
An Elopement for Camilla and Carl An Elopement for Camilla and Carl
An Elopement for Camilla and Carl
Port Jervis, New York
An Elopement for Hannah and Benjamin An Elopement for Hannah and Benjamin
An Elopement for Hannah and Benjamin
Charleston, South Carolina
An Elopement for Ivy and Tom An Elopement for Ivy and Tom
An Elopement for Ivy and Tom
Middleburg, Virgina
An Elopement for Sabrina and Li An Elopement for Sabrina and Li
An Elopement for Sabrina and Li
Miami, Florida
An Elopement for Menshek and Chiappe An Elopement for Menshek and Chiappe
An Elopement for Menshek and Chiappe
San José del Cabo, Mexico
An Elopement for Cindy and Daniel An Elopement for Cindy and Daniel
An Elopement for Cindy and Daniel
New York, New York
An Intimate Wedding for Ankita and Manoj An Intimate Wedding for Ankita and Manoj
An Intimate Wedding for Ankita and Manoj
Brooklyn, New York
A Modern Wedding for Natalia and JP A Modern Wedding for Natalia and JP
A Modern Wedding for Natalia and JP
Marroquín de Abajo, Mexico
An Elopement Wedding for Tracy and Laurance An Elopement Wedding for Tracy and Laurance
An Elopement Wedding for Tracy and Laurance
New York, New York
An Elopement Wedding for Katie and Jon An Elopement Wedding for Katie and Jon
An Elopement Wedding for Katie and Jon
St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
An Elopement Wedding for Gabrielle and James An Elopement Wedding for Gabrielle and James
An Elopement Wedding for Gabrielle and James
Wanship, Utah
An Intimate Wedding for Zoe and Star An Intimate Wedding for Zoe and Star
An Intimate Wedding for Zoe and Star
Private Residence
An Edgy Wedding for Jenna and Aubrey An Edgy Wedding for Jenna and Aubrey
An Edgy Wedding for Jenna and Aubrey
New York City, New York
A Mountain Elopement for Brittany and Adrienne A Mountain Elopement for Brittany and Adrienne
A Mountain Elopement for Brittany and Adrienne
Private Residence
An Elopement Wedding for Julia and Nick An Elopement Wedding for Julia and Nick
An Elopement Wedding for Julia and Nick
New York, New York
A Classic Wedding for Hailey and Patrick A Classic Wedding for Hailey and Patrick
A Classic Wedding for Hailey and Patrick
Saint Helena, California
A Boho Wedding for Carrie and Jon A Boho Wedding for Carrie and Jon
A Boho Wedding for Carrie and Jon
Brooklyn, New York
An Elopement Wedding for Natalia and Stephen An Elopement Wedding for Natalia and Stephen
An Elopement Wedding for Natalia and Stephen
Vancouver, Canada
An Elopement Wedding for Virginia and Cody An Elopement Wedding for Virginia and Cody
An Elopement Wedding for Virginia and Cody
Private Residence
An Elopement Wedding for Julia and Rob An Elopement Wedding for Julia and Rob
An Elopement Wedding for Julia and Rob
Private Residence
A Desert Wedding for Samantha and Zach A Desert Wedding for Samantha and Zach
A Desert Wedding for Samantha and Zach
Taos, New Mexico
An Elopement Wedding for Natalie and Vijay An Elopement Wedding for Natalie and Vijay
An Elopement Wedding for Natalie and Vijay
Austin, Texas
A Boho Wedding for Susana and Daniel A Boho Wedding for Susana and Daniel
A Boho Wedding for Susana and Daniel
Private Residence
An Elopement Wedding for Kimberly and Malte An Elopement Wedding for Kimberly and Malte
An Elopement Wedding for Kimberly and Malte
New York, New York
Elopement Weddings: 

Everything You Need to Know

Elopement weddings have become much more popular in recent years. This shift from larger weddings to microweddings and elopement weddings is due, at least in part, to the recent pandemic. Because it greatly limited the ability for many couples to plan larger weddings, some couples shifted and opted for more intimate ceremonies. In general, though, elopement weddings have become increasingly popular because of their emphasis on focusing on what really matters: your and your partner’s love. Gathering with your partner and one or two others  made it an excellent solution for couples who want a small, personalized wedding.

Elopement packages are a convenient way to manage the wedding planning process for microweddings and elopements alike. These packages are usually all-inclusive to cover the venue, the wedding officiant, and witnesses for the wedding. They can also include a hotel stay or other amenities that will make your elopement wedding truly special.

If you are considering eloping or planning a microwedding with your closest friends and family members, our directory can help you find the perfect venues, locations, and vendors to make this event the most memorable one imaginable. You can also flip through all the real-life wedding photos and see information about the vendors who can turn your vision into a reality. Our weddings can be sorted by location, venue, or other characteristics to help you determine the best options for your once-in-a-lifetime celebration of love.

Our curated directory is a great resource for elopement ideas and strategies that can help you create the perfect atmosphere for yourself and your partner. If you are planning to elope or want to host a microwedding that includes your closest friends and immediate family, we can help you find the right ideas to ensure that your celebration lives up to your expectations.

What is an elopement?

So, what does elopement mean exactly? An elopement wedding was once simply defined as a wedding in which the couple did not obtain parental consent and ran away to get married. This historical definition has faded over the years, and it’s now taken on a completely different meaning for couples planning their weddings. Since most couples planning to get married do not require the consent of their parents in the modern era, elopement weddings have been reimagined as private getaways that allow couples to do things on their own terms. Some might not want to pay the higher costs often associated with larger weddings, and others would simply prefer a more intimate celebration.

While there is not necessarily one universally accepted elope definition, the term elopement generally indicates a minimalist approach to the wedding process. This could include eloping with family that are closely related to you and your partner or getting married on your own with witnesses provided by elopement wedding venues. Put simply, how you elope is solely up to you and your partner. And because eloping with a select few loved ones isn’t technically an elopement, the term “microwedding” has also been used more frequently.

Given all of that, it’s important to understand that choosing to elope does not mean that you will not need to plan for your upcoming wedding day. Even if you do not plan to invite any guests, you will still need to find a wedding officiant, apply for a marriage license, and reserve a venue. Plus, some states require one or more witnesses to legalize the marriage. To take care of any other requirements, you can also check out elopement packages to ensure greater convenience when planning your special day. In some cases, it may even make sense to enlist the help of an elopement wedding planner to help you with particular arrangements and manage any other details involved in your celebration.

The Basics of Elopement Weddings

What is an elopement wedding? In general, modern elopement weddings and microweddings are ceremonies and, in some cases, receptions that feature a very short guest list. Small wedding venues for 20 guests or fewer might cost significantly less than other venues too. Additionally, elopement weddings can be far more intimate and personal than larger affairs. A modern elopement has few to none of the connotations of running away from home that were once associated with elopement weddings.

Today, the elopement wedding meaning has more to do with personal preferences than with escaping the control of parents (fortunately!). If you are planning to elope, your own elopement meaning and reasoning will usually involve greater freedom in choosing your ceremony and a smaller group of friends or family members who will attend. Finding your own unique elopement wedding meaning and elope definition can allow you to create a personal ceremony that is precisely right for you and your partner.

With all the joy that comes with this day, it’s important to note that avoiding hurt feelings when you elope can be a challenging process. Family and friends might have loved to celebrate with you, and communicating your aspirations could present some conflict. One way to prevent issues that could mar this special day is to announce your elopement as soon as possible after the event. This can help you to communicate your elopement without causing your friends and family to feel excluded from this important day in your life.

If you want to share your elopement ideas before the big day or to include all your family members in your ceremony, you may be able to upload a video of your ceremony to a wedding website or even livestream it on Zoom. This modern approach to sharing your wedding celebration is especially appropriate for older relatives, and for managing the costs of your wedding plans while including everyone you love in the celebration.

Why are elopement weddings popular?

Elopement weddings are on the rise for a variety of reasons. Over the past few years, pandemic elopement weddings have become part of the mainstream in the wedding industry. Other reasons to consider elopement weddings include the following:

  • Costs: It is generally true that smaller weddings cost less than larger ones. Small wedding venues for 20 guests or fewer are much more affordable than larger and more expansive venues. Elopement can allow you and your partner to avoid the cost of catering, invitations, and other elements of traditional weddings. This can provide you with added help in managing your budget and can allow you to save your financial resources for things that matter more to you. That being said, you can also go big with your smaller wedding. Head to a tropical destination, or treat your family and friends to fine dining after your trip to the local courthouse. There are so many ways to host an elopement wedding, and the cost has a wide range depending on your choices.
  • The ability to splurge: Eliminating or significantly reducing the need for catering and larger wedding venue spaces can provide you with added funds that can be used to book a luxury suite or to travel to an exotic location for your honeymoon. 
  • Personalized ceremonies: In most cases, a traditional wedding with lots of guests is sometimes an exercise in compromise between the wishes of the couple and the comfort and preferences of guests, including friends and family. One of the most important benefits of elopement is the ability to decide on every aspect of the wedding ceremony and celebration. You can integrate your own elopement ceremony ideas into your microwedding without worrying about the reactions of others.
  • Greater intimacy: Whether you and your partner are eloping with family or on your own, keeping your guest list small or nonexistent can allow you to create an intimate atmosphere for this special event. This can make it much more special for you and your partner and can alleviate some of the stress that can arise from balancing your own wedding ideas with the wishes of your guests. By making your elopement solely about you and your partner, you can decide on whatever elopement meaning and arrangements work best for the two of you.
  • Added safety: Pandemic elopement weddings were commonplace during the height of the COVID-19 outbreak as a safety measure to protect the health of couples and their family members and friends. Opting for these more intimate weddings was a solid step in keeping loved ones healthy and safe. While the worst of the pandemic may be over, elopement weddings can still offer added protection for vulnerable guests and members of the potential wedding party against the transmission of COVID-19 and other serious illnesses.
  • Reduced impact of interrupted supply chains: With the cost of weddings on the rise because of supply chain disruptions, opting for an elopement rather than a traditional wedding ceremony can eliminate delays and other issues associated with these concerns. This can allow you to find the perfect options for your elopement without the stress of finding wedding venues, vendors, and other elements that go into planning a more elaborate, traditional wedding.
  • Taking guests out of the equation: Whether you are eloping with family and friends or considering your options for adventure elopement weddings, you will not need to worry about expenses for your guests or other requirements for larger weddings. This can eliminate some of the stress involved in the wedding planning process for you and your partner.

Finding your own elopement wedding meaning can also be an important benefit of planning your special day. Incorporating your own elopement ideas can allow you to create a customized and personalized wedding celebration that will be a source of joy and happy memories for many years to come.

Where can you have your elopement wedding?

While Las Vegas elopement weddings are perhaps the most popular (or at least, well-known) options for celebrities and other couples, these celebrations can be held almost anywhere. You may wish to take your cues from recent celebrity elopements, or from favorite spots or locations with sentimental importance for you and your partner.

Figuring out where to elope should be the first step in your wedding planning process. In some cases, working with an elopement wedding planner can allow you to find the most practical elopement packages too. Some of the most romantic destinations for elopement weddings could be in your area or in international locales all over the world. Here are some ideas on where to elope for you and your partner:

  • Elegant country club settings: In the United States, country clubs and estates are a popular option for elopements and microweddings alike. Depending on the area, country club elopement weddings can be more expensive than some other venues, which could have an impact on your overall spending for your elopement.
  • Local wedding venues: In many cases, you can find options outside the courthouse to help you answer the question, "Who offers elopement packages near me?" Restaurants, gardens, and museums may offer elopement packages that include officiants and a tranquil setting for your wedding ceremony. You can also start your search by filtering our directory by location if you and your partner are looking for answers to questions like, "Are there elopement packages near me?"
  • Popular destinations: Depending on your preferences, you can opt for a city wedding in DC, a desert elopement, or a sweet ceremony in the forest or mountains. If you choose an unusual destination, however, you may need to provide your own elopement wedding officiant for the ceremony. Venues that offer elopement wedding packages, however, might include the services of an officiant as part of the package.
  • Smaller venues: One big advantage of elopement weddings is the ability to choose small wedding venues for 20 guests or fewer. These smaller locations can often provide good deals on weddings and elopement packages that can make it easier to incorporate your own elopement ceremony ideas at a cost you and your partner are comfortable with.
  • Hotels and resorts: For many couples, eloping to a hotel or resort can be a romantic option that can make your wedding day even more special. The accommodations available at these locations are ideally suited for spontaneous elopement weddings that may also extend to your honeymoon.
  • Outdoor venues: Whether you prefer a waterfront elopement, a backyard wedding, or another venue for outdoor weddings, your options for where to elope are virtually endless. Finding the right location for your elopement can make your wedding something special for you, your partner, and anyone else you might choose to invite.
  • Destination elopements: You have a variety of choices for elopement packages and venues located around the world. Whether you are planning on eloping to Switzerland or have your hearts set on a Canary Islands destination elopement, you can find the perfect venues in areas all around the globe. For an even more memorable experience, consider going off the beaten path with an elopement to Iceland or another unfamiliar area to create an experience you and your future spouse will never forget.
  • Wedding chapels: Chapels that specialize in these types of weddings can often provide you with customized elopement packages that include most of the necessities. Working with these small wedding venues for 20 guests or fewer can reduce the need for an elopement wedding planner. The elopement wedding packages from these specialty venues usually include an officiant, witnesses, and elopement wedding photography to capture this magical moment for you and your partner.

Microwedding and elopement wedding destinations are as varied as the love stories of the couples who choose these ceremonies. Eloping with family and friends can also give your elopement wedding meaning and can create memories that will bring all of you closer together on this very special occasion.

How much do elopement weddings cost?

The cost of your elopement is almost completely up to you. If cost is a factor in deciding where to elope, you may want to stick closer to home, go to the local courthouse, and maybe even invest in elopement wedding packages that include accommodations and dining for you and your partner. If price is no object, however, destination weddings and luxury elopement weddings can allow you to enjoy the best experience in the most beautiful setting possible.

The average cost of a traditional wedding was $30,000 in 2020. Since the average cost of elopement weddings is likely less than that, opting for an elopement can often reduce the cost of your wedding plans to a considerable degree. Some of the elements that may be included in elopement wedding packages or may be omitted entirely from elopement weddings are listed below:

  • The wedding planner: Elopement weddings typically require minimal prior preparation. Some venues that offer weddings and elopement packages can provide you with a coordinator to manage all aspects of the ceremony. If you do need an elopement wedding planner, you can usually expect to pay less for their services than you would for a traditional wedding.
  • The wedding invitations: Even if you do decide to send invitations to the lucky few you choose to attend your ceremony, the cost for a small number of printed invites is usually not a significant drain on your financial resources. Or you could keep it all online by sharing your wedding details on your wedding website. This can save you time and money when managing the planning process for elopement weddings and incorporating your own elopement ceremony ideas for this special occasion.
  • The photography: The right elopement wedding photography can be critical to preserving your memories and sharing them with the ones you love. Elopement wedding photography usually includes at least a few candid shots of you and your partner, as well as shots of the ceremony itself. If you decide on elopement wedding packages from a specialty venue, the precise photos of your wedding may be listed on the information sheet provided. Make sure to research these elopement packages thoroughly to determine whether it’s the best route for you and your partner. If you choose an independent venue, however, you can often decide on your own elopement wedding photography expert, who can capture all of those important moments any way you want. If you are eloping with family, an elopement wedding photography pro can ensure that your photos look the way you want them to, from start to finish.
  • The wedding cake: Whether you choose to have a wedding cake is entirely your own decision. Most elopement weddings feature a small cake suited for the number of guests (even if it’s just a party of two!). It is perfectly acceptable, however, to omit the wedding cake entirely to cut costs. Some elopement packages do include a small wedding cake that is decorated in a standard fashion to allow you to get photos of yourself and your partner. Checking with your venue can help you to determine if this is included as part of the elopement packages they offer.
  • The wedding rings: There is no difference between elopement wedding rings and those used for traditional wedding ceremonies. Finding the perfect rings can allow you and your partner to enjoy tangible and beautiful reminders of your love story now and for many years to come.
  • The (potential) travel expenses: If you are planning to elope to a far-off destination, you will need to figure the cost of travel and transportation into your budget. Your travel-related expenses may include the cost of hotel rooms, elopement wedding venues, and any elopement packages you may wish to purchase. If your budget permits, you can also incorporate the cost of bringing a few friends and family members to the location of your elopement wedding venues. This can encourage those closest to you to share this once-in-a-lifetime moment with you and your partner.
  • The catering or meal costs: In most cases, you can make reservations at a restaurant that will accommodate you, your partner, and the limited number of guests who may attend. If you do decide to cater, elopement weddings and microweddings typically have a very small list of guests, which can significantly cut down on the cost of your catering bill. Many couples who plan elopement weddings decide to splurge on a meal for two at their favorite restaurant or at a fine dining location in their area. This can be the perfect way to conclude your wedding celebration when eloping close to home or in a foreign destination.

Creating an elopement checklist can allow you to manage all aspects of your wedding much more efficiently and can give your elopement wedding meaning and structure. To make the most of your overall experience, it’s also recommended to enlist the assistance of a professional elopement wedding planner. With trusted expert advice, it’s even easier to add your own elopement ideas to your day and give your elopement meaning beyond the words used in your ceremony. By creating a unique celebration at one of the many elopement wedding venues out there, you can choose among the best elopement dresses and start thinking about honeymoon plans that are precisely right for you and your spouse-to-be.

Establishing a detailed breakdown of wedding costs associated with eloping can help you to determine if these wedding arrangements are right for you and your partner. In general, eloping is less expensive than weddings with a larger number of guests. Keeping an eye on your expenses and adjusting your plans to suit your ideal budget can help you enjoy the most elegant and memorable wedding possible.

What should you consider when planning an elopement wedding?

The process of planning your elopement can be as complicated or as simple as you like. Small wedding venues for 20 guests are available in most communities and parts of the world. This can make it easier to find the elopement wedding venues most suited to your needs, close to home or wherever you plan to get married. Once your choice of elopement wedding venues has been established, you can decide on other aspects of your wedding. One of the most fun parts of the process is choosing from a variety of elopement dresses, and then there are the more logistical needs like determining the catering requirements and booking a hotel for you and your partner in the location you choose. Here are some other items to keep in mind on your elopement checklist:

  • Witnesses to your elopement: Depending on the state or country in which you plan to elope, the witness requirements for elopement weddings can vary. Many venues that offer weddings and elopement packages also provide witnesses as part of the services they offer.
  • Eloping etiquette: One key to planning your elopement and staying within the bounds of eloping etiquette is to let your family and friends know of your plans to wed before you take the plunge. This can allow them to adjust to the idea of the elopement and can reduce hurt feelings and surprise on the part of those closest to you and your partner. While the traditional elopement meaning includes the idea of rejecting the control of your family members, letting your family and close friends know about your upcoming elopement can help you stay within bounds of proper eloping etiquette while avoiding any misunderstandings or emotional reactions on the part of these important individuals.
  • Check your passports and visas: If you and your partner plan to travel overseas to elope, you will need to make sure that all your travel papers are in order. Some countries deny entry to visitors with passports that expire within a few months of their trip. Processing times for passport renewals and new passports can be lengthy too. It is important to check the expiration date for your passports well before you plan to leave the country to be on the safe side.
  • Obtain a valid U.S. marriage license: For your marriage to be valid in the United States, you will also need to obtain a marriage license domestically. You can then proceed to your foreign destination to perform the ceremony. A U.S. marriage license is necessary to ensure that your marriage is legal in this country. Be sure to make time for this process on your elopement checklist.
  • Figuring out what to pack: Knowing what to pack for elopement weddings can be challenging. While many of the basics may be provided as part of elopement packages, the right attire can help you to feel more comfortable as you elope. Your smartphone may include a high-definition camera. If not, however, or if you feel more comfortable with a traditional camera, packing this item can help you get important candid shots of you and your partner as you elope.
  • Your wedding vows: If you are planning to exchange personalized vows with your partner, make sure you have these vows written. Practicing before you elope can help you to manage your ceremony with greater confidence too. Even reading them aloud to yourself can help you feel prepared for the inevitable emotions of the day. Keep in mind that some chapels or churches, some of which could offer elopement packages, typically use traditional wedding vows. Contacting these providers for elopement packages in advance, however, could allow you to customize your wedding vows. It’s also important to communicate your ceremony requests with your officiant as soon as possible, to ensure that your ceremony goes smoothly and according to plan.
  • Choosing an officiant: Speaking of officiants, you can also select your own to oversee the wedding ceremony. Friends and family members who have been ordained can serve as the officiant for backyard elopement weddings or ceremonies at small elopement wedding venues. While many elopement packages already include the services of an officiant, most venues are open to the idea of an outside officiant for celebrations held on their premises. For couples planning elopement weddings, the ability to choose who will officiate at their ceremony can be an important factor in creating the wedding of their dreams.

Whether you are looking for the perfect elopement dresses or are worrying about appropriate eloping etiquette, there are a lot of factors going into the big day (no matter how small it actually is). That being said, integrating your own elopement ideas can help you to feel more confident and excited about your upcoming wedding plans. Elopement packages are available that can resolve many of the items on your personal elopement checklist. By choosing the right elopement wedding venues and introducing your own set of elopement ideas into the mix, you can ensure that you and your partner will have the best experience possible for your upcoming day.

What will you need for elopement wedding decor?

If you opt for a venue that offers weddings and elopement packages, these spots typically have decor in place that may be suitable for your requirements. If you prefer to create your own wedding from start to finish, you can select the venue of your choice and implement your own elopement ideas to create an elegant and customized look for your wedding celebration. Here are some hints for managing your decor and incorporating your own elopement ideas into your upcoming wedding:

  • Consider venue restrictions: Depending on where you decide to get married, you may not be able to change the decor of your venue to a significant degree. For example, courthouses may not allow any decor beyond a wedding bouquet. Alternatively, forests or deserts might have rules against certain materials like rice or confetti. Venues that offer elopement packages can also place significant restrictions on the types of decorations you can bring in and use for your wedding ceremony. By contrast, smaller dedicated wedding venues may allow you to bring in rental furniture, lighting, and many other aspects of decor to personalize the space for your elopement or microwedding.
  • Plan decor for outdoor weddings: An outdoor setting may come with the perfect backdrop for your elopement wedding. If you do want to dress up your chosen wedding venue, however, you can often add an altar or archway that can be used for your photos. This can provide you with an elegant and beautiful environment for your ceremony that can impress the friends and family members in attendance or hearing about your experience upon your return.
  • Check out elopement packages: Depending on where you plan to marry, packages designed specifically for eloping couples may come with a variety of decor options. If you have definite ideas about what you want your wedding to look like, be sure to touch base with your venue to make sure that their elopement packages suit your needs.
  • Say it with flowers: Nearly all wedding venues and companies that offer elopement packages should allow flower arrangements. While courthouses and public spaces may have restrictions on these decorative arrangements, most other venues will allow flowers, even if they do not allow other types of decor. Working with a florist experienced in providing flowers for elopement wedding venues can enhance the beauty of your venue and can help you and your partner to create the perfect atmosphere in which to exchange your wedding vows.

The right decor options can transform your wedding venue and can allow you to elope in elegance and style. We’re here to help you find the right vendors and the perfect options for planning to elope. 

What should you (and your guests) wear for elopement weddings?

When it comes to the clothing you wear while eloping, you can select your own favorite when choosing elopement dresses for your big day. From the quintessential little black dress to an elaborate and traditional wedding gown, elopement dresses offer much more flexibility than those designed for more classic weddings. Eloping etiquette is more relaxed than that applied to traditional wedding arrangements, which means that you can choose elopement dresses and tuxedo or suit options that suit your style and offer the look you want. Consider your existing elopement ceremony ideas and think of which outfit (or outfits!) can complement them. This can give your elopement meaning and can allow you to personalize your ceremony, even if you choose pre-designed elopement wedding packages.

Because elopement weddings are designed specifically for you and your partner, the rules regarding what you wear simply do not apply to elopement dresses. Short sleeves, long sleeves, and a wide range of colors are all acceptable for elopement dresses. In some cases, you can avoid shopping for elopement dresses altogether and opt for a dress you already have in your closet. Or you can toss the idea of elopement dresses out the window and decide on a stylish suit or tuxedo if this suits your style and personality better.

Accessories are another important element of your wedding-day look. Earrings can set off your hairstyle perfectly, and necklaces are another way to enhance elopement dresses and to create the perfect look for your photos. If you go for a shorter dress, choosing a brightly-colored heel or other bold shoe can complement your look to create the most incredible ensemble for you on this important day. Finally, flowers are a key element not only in the decor you choose for your wedding but for your entire elopement wedding ensemble.

Hairstyles and makeup are important parts of creating the perfect wedding look. You can opt for a natural, windswept look or an elaborate style that requires the assistance of a professional stylist. Hair and makeup artists can help you look and feel your absolute best on the day of your wedding.

One of the great features of elopement weddings is the ability to incorporate your own ideas and personal tastes into your celebration. This is especially apparent when choosing elopement dresses and other elements of your celebration. Choosing the elopement dresses that suit your style and that please you and your partner can allow you to put your own elopement ideas and inspiration to work when marking off the items on your elopement checklist. You can also select multiple elopement dresses to suit your wedding plans. Whatever you prefer, you are sure to find the perfect elopement dresses for your upcoming celebration.

The less-restrictive nature of eloping can also carry over to friends and family members who are invited to attend this special event. While you can set a strict dress code for your invited guests, most couples who elope allow their guests to wear whatever they like. Of course, if your big event will take place in a resort or formal setting, you can request attire that suits this environment and that fits your desired aesthetic.

Finding the Right Elopement Ideas

You can find elopement ceremony ideas almost anywhere. If any of your friends or family members have chosen to elope, their experiences can serve as a guide for you in what to do and what not to do for your own wedding celebration. Here are some of the most common ways to find ideas for your own plans to elope:

  • Online research: Checking out the details of the elopement weddings of celebrities and other famous people in magazines and on television or social media can often provide inspiration for your own unique wedding plans. While the scale of these wedding arrangements may be more elaborate or aspirational, you can still pick up ideas that will help you plan more effectively to elope with your partner. Staying current with the latest fashion trends in the wedding industry can allow you to come up with cutting-edge ideas for elopement weddings. By seeking out the most popular ideas for eloping and microwedding planning, you can more easily manage the planning process. 
  • Local venues: Taking the time to tour local wedding venues can often provide you with a clear picture of what is possible in specific locations. If you are planning to decorate your own backyard, an outdoor area, or a dedicated wedding venue, you can take the successful ideas from other venues to use as part of your own celebration. This can allow you to elope in style, while providing you with the right solutions for your own wedding day.
  • Your wedding planner: You can often gain a greater understanding of microweddings and elopement weddings by consulting with a professional planner to help you make arrangements for your special day. If you are planning a destination wedding, seeking guidance from a local wedding planner can help you find the right decor and venue choices to make your plans to elope even more special for you and your partner.
  • Friends and acquaintances: The people you know can be great sources for original ideas and plans for elopement weddings. By seeking suggestions from people who know you well, you can often figure out new and innovative ideas that can make your plan to elope even more special for you and those who will be in attendance at your wedding.
  • Vintage stores: If you are unsure of what to wear to elope, stores that sell vintage clothing can often be a great resource for you and your partner when it comes to fashion for your wedding. Choosing attire that suits your style and complements your appearance can allow you to save on the cost of wedding outfits while helping you to achieve the look you want for this important day in your lives.
  • Popular wedding themes: Even if you plan to elope, you can model your wedding on themes that inspire you and your partner. Whether you have always dreamed about a boho-chic, fairytale-inspired, or rustic wedding, you can incorporate elements of this theme into your decor and your attire to create the atmosphere you want for your elopement wedding.
  • Sentimental tie-ins: Incorporating specific elements of your relationship and places that are important to you and your partner can allow you to create a unique look and feel for your wedding. For example, if you and your partner share a pet, including this animal companion in your wedding plans can make eloping even more special for both of you. If you share a favorite restaurant, you can arrange for a dinner at this location after your ceremony to create a romantic and magical atmosphere for your wedding day. Or if a particular place has been a significant part of your journey together, you can arrange to host your ceremony or post-ceremony dinner there. 
  • Real-life weddings: At Carats & Cake, we provide access to real-life wedding photos and information on venues, vendors and other aspects of your perfect wedding day. By reviewing our directory of weddings and finding the ideas you like best, you and your partner can create the perfect celebration of your love for each other. Our curated collection of photos, vendors, and venues can help you plan your epic celebration more easily and effectively.

Planning to elope can be challenging, but there are so many ways to make it a fun, personalized experience that brings you and your partner even closer. If you are looking for the best solutions for eloping in the near future, there are so many options, venues, and ideas that can inspire your event. The key thing to remember about elopement weddings is that it’s about expressing your love and getting married exactly how you want to. Your elopement wedding is one that you and your partner will remember fondly for many years to come, and you’re only a few steps away from achieving it.

How do you start planning elopement weddings?

If you are looking for the best options for eloping, our directory can provide you with the right information about the venues and vendors that are best suited for microweddings and elopement weddings. Our gallery is searchable by location, type of wedding, wedding theme, and wedding venue to help you find the perfect solutions for your specific set of needs. We also offer wedding websites that can provide clear lines of communication between you and your guests (if you have any!).

To begin your planning process, look through real-life weddings and determine what style and venue you’re looking for. The most beautiful elopement weddings could be close to home, in the great outdoors, or at select destinations around the globe. Like we’ve said, it’s all up to you!