As we mentioned in Forgoing the stress: the rise of elopements and small weddings, eloping today is different from what it was a generation or two ago. It’s more about focusing on the marriage experience itself than running off to marry secretly. Even when it’s a simple ceremony, it can be a romantic and thoughtful way to say “I do”. Eloping isn’t restricted to only include the two persons getting married and the officiant. Family and closest friends may also be present.
One of the biggest reasons couples choose to elope is to reduce the stress of planning a huge wedding. A second reason is because they view an elopement as giving them the ability to focus on joining their lives together rather than designing a wedding to accommodate other’s expectations that don’t align with their own priorities.
Since more couples are eloping in order to avoid planning stress, one question a couple might have when considering this is, “Should we plan and do everything ourselves or should we still hire wedding professionals?”
There is not a cut and dry answer to this question.
Part of it depends on your personality and what is most important to you about your wedding day. You may decide that there are certain aspects that are important to you and you want to hire a professional because it will (1) reduce your stress, (2) you want the experience and quality service they can offer in that area, and (3) you want everything prepared and ready when you arrive.
For example, you will need the services of a legally authorized officiant…and preferably someone who also has experience so the ceremony progresses smoothly. State laws vary, but there are rules regarding who can officiate and who cannot for the marriage license to be valid.
Even for the simplest elopement, we encourage you to consider hiring a photographer. We’ve never heard any couple regret having beautiful wedding photos to share and they are totally worth the splurge. Regardless of how many vendors you have on your wedding day team, we recommend that you choose a professional, reliable photographer to capture the priceless moments of your day with skill. Do keep in mind, though, that photographers aren’t magicians. Expertise, lighting, vantage point, and editing can make a huge difference in photo quality, but your wedding day details won’t be transformed into something else entirely.
If you are the type of person who enjoys spontaneity and planning isn’t your thing, you may want to hire a coordinator. You could also take advantage of an all-inclusive elopement package. Talk about your dreams with your planner and let him or her bring it all together for you. You’ll have fewer details to keep track of and can entrust the outcome to capable hands. Being able to focus on simply getting married and starting your life together is a gift.
Hiring additional vendors depends on what is important to you for your elopement.
You can elope at an exotic location, wear a stunning dress, have your hair and makeup done professionally, carry a luxe bouquet of flowers, have doves released during your first kiss, cut your custom mini wedding cake, and then go eat at your favorite restaurant. OR you can include only the aspects that are meaningful and celebratory for you. That might be as simple as going to the courthouse to say your vows and then eating a quiet meal together.
The beauty of eloping is that you get to decide.
Eloping provides flexibility and can be tailored to suit your tastes and needs. You have the ability to choose what will allow you to best focus on joining your lives together. Want some guidance for your elopement? We’re only a call or email away!
Happy Planning! It’s your occasion. Make it Always Yours!
The Wedding Ladies,
Kate and Cheryl
*Photo credits:
Photographer: Tonya Damron Photography, Venue: Chilhowee Park (Bandstand), Coordinator + Decor: Always Yours Occasions, Officiant: Chuck O’Connor with Sensational Ceremonies, Cake Artist: Sweet Beginnings by Elaine, Florist: Thistle and Lace Events, Hairstylist: Reflections by Christina, Makeup Artist: Lindsay Conroy with The Skin and Lash Lab, Gown and hair accessories: Loveliest Bridal, Suit: Prestige Tuxedo, Jewelry: Fountain City Jewelers, Bride Model: Jessica Nicole Hopkins, Groom Model: Cody Lee Hopkins