Over the past few years the rate of elopements or small weddings have been on the rise. For some, the draw is the seclusion of a private ceremony. Others prefer to invest in a luxurious honeymoon or towards the down payment of a home rather than in a large wedding. Additionally, the ease and simplicity of all-inclusive packages available in elopement and small wedding packages make them increasingly popular. The appeal of getting married without the stress and hubbub and having someone else do the legwork is paramount for some couples. They would prefer to focus on beginning their lives together than plan an huge wedding.
Not sure what an elopement actually entails?
Insider Weddings has a useful short guide on what today’s elopements look like. The details of elopements and small weddings can vary greatly. Elopements are often very different than what they used to be in the past. It’s less about about marrying without parental blessing and more about a way to marry without the expense of a wedding or wishing to keep the ceremony private. Some are as simple as going to the courthouse to get married while others are luxurious getaways to exotic locations. Consistently, though, they are private ceremonies with a very limited guest count or none at all. There is often a reception afterwards to celebrate with extended family and friends.
Small weddings often include most of the facets of a traditional wedding with a guest count that includes closest family and friends. Couples may sometimes choose to limit their guest count due to financial considerations, but that’s not always the case. The details can be just as lavish, or perhaps even more so since fewer guests means there may be more in the budget for luxe options, than a wedding with hundreds of guests. Often, couples simply want a more private event with the ability to meaningfully connect with the people who are most important in their lives.
Are you considering an elopement or small wedding? You might relate to one of these brides: Beth envisions a small private wedding at her honeymoon site in an exotic location. Rebecca privately dreams of a true elopement with just her, her groom, an officiant, and photographer. Sally’s dream wedding is an all-inclusive small ceremony and reception with the immediate families. Taylor wants an elopement package that includes or connects her with great honeymoon options.
What type of wedding most appeals to you?
Let us know if you are planning an elopement or small wedding and what you will include in your “I do’s”! Knowing what what is most important to you gives us information we need to make your wedding dreams a reality.
Whatever your wedding day dreams, we wish you the very best. Happy Planning!
It’s your occasion. Make it Always Yours!
The Wedding Ladies,
Kate and Cheryl