6 Tips for a Perfect Elopement

July 8, 2020

Let’s face it, the world of weddings looks different these days. Whether you’ve had to postpone your wedding due to coronavirus or you just never wanted a big wedding to begin with, elopement can be a great option. It alleviates a ton of pressure, can save you a lot of money, and planning an elopement can be fun and exciting. So, whether you are eloping due to a change of plans or because that’s what you’ve always wanted to do, we’ve got some great tips to help you make sure your day is perfect.

Decide on a Vibe

The first thing you’ll want to do when planning your elopement is decide on a vibe for the day–what you want the day to look and feel like. Setting a vibe may include things like color palette, season, time of day, choosing whether or not you want flowers, and all the details that might be important to you and your intended as a couple. For example, in this styled shoot from Alexandra Kent Photography, the inspiration for the color palette came from the the reflection of the sunset on the water and the timeless beauty of the Eastern Shore.

Pro Tip: Pinterest is a great source for inspiration and ideas. Create a mood board for your elopement to help you capture the intended vibe.

Choose a Venue

Choosing a venue will help you set the tone for the day itself–does your dream wedding happen outside or in? Is there somewhere that’s meaningful to you and your fiancé where a ceremony can be held? Will the venue have room for guests? Your options are endless!

The couple pictured here chose to get married aboard the Chester River Packet in their hometown. They share a love of being on the water that made it a simple, but meaningful location for their elopement.

Set a Budget

This may be the least exciting part of the process, but it’s SO important. We suggest sitting down with your fiancé and setting a budget. Make a list of what you’ll need and estimate those costs. Does your wish list come in within your set budget? Some things to consider are venue costs, clothing, hair and makeup, rings, licenses, officiant costs, photography and travel (if that’s part of the plan). Prioritize the items that matter most to you.

Choose your Vendors

Take a deep breath, we’ve got this one covered for you. We highly recommend hiring a photographer and/or videographer to document the day. After all, when it’s over, you’ll want something tangible to remember how beautiful your day was. You’ll also need someone to actually marry you, so don’t forget to hire an officiant and get a marriage license. Something that will make your vision come to life and make you really feel like a bride is a bouquet and flowers. A smaller wedding means you can have all the details you dreamed of. Likewise, you might want to invest in having your hair and makeup professionally done…after all, you want to look great in those photos you are paying for!

Don’t forget to think through your reception or after-party as well, if you are having one. If you need tables, chairs, lanterns, candles, linens…whatever…you can find them here. If you are looking for help with planning you elopement, many event planners are offering elopement packages. After you’ve selected your vendors, be sure to connect with them to talk about your vision for the day. They’ll be happy to help!

Dress/Attire and Details

Choosing your elopement attire should be fun. This is your chance to make all your dreams come true, so go for it! The same advice goes for the small details–infusing your elopement with as much of your personalities as possible will make it unique to you. So often, the magic and romance of a wedding can get lost in the craziness of planning and plotting. With an elopement, you get a little more “back to basics” and focus on what it’s really about–two people pledging their love to one another. What could be better? Remember, they say love is in the details.

Celebrate and Spread the Word

You did it! You’re married! It’s time to celebrate and tell the world! Cut the cake, kiss as the sun sets, whatever you choose, make sure to get some great photos of your perfect day! Share the photos with loved ones and, if you were married on the Eastern Shore, share them with us as well. Congratulations!