What first comes to your mind when you hear the word elopement? Maybe you think of two rebellious lovers running away from their family, quickly getting married in Vegas being blessed by Elvis and live their life away from everyone they knew?
That is NOT the case for modern elopements. As times change, the definition of elopement also have changed and evolved. Let’s dive into what it is and what it’s not.
So what is the old school definition of an Elopement?
In the old days, an Elopement was a taboo. As Wikipedia says: “Elopement referred to a marriage conducted in sudden and secretive fashion, usually involving a hurried flight away from one’s place of residence together with one’s beloved with the intention of getting married without parental approval.” This definitions is definitely outdated. Perhaps that old elopement definition was valid in the days of our grandparents, but times have changed a lot since then. And luckily the modern-day elopement definition has changed quite a bit. It’s far away from anything shameful or disapproved.
The Modern Day Elopement Definition:
An elopement is an alternative way of getting married, by having a very intimate ceremony alone or in a company of the closest people. The couple usually write their own vows and choose their own location, which makes it even more meaningful & intentional. All day is focused on the eloping couple as opposed to the wedding guest experience. It doesn’t follow any preconceived traditions and it can be tailored in a unique way by & for the two people in love.
How Elopements look like these days?
Elopements are no longer just something that people do to run away & get married. Today’s elopements are very intentional and take place in beautiful locations with more planning. Couples can choose any destination that resonates with them somehow. It can be anywhere: barefoot on the tropical beach, during sunset on the mountain top with a scenic view, in your favorite national park or in the middle of the dessert. Options are limitless, the only limit is your imagination.
Elopement is all about the experience.
The location is important, yet not the most important! The main focus is on the two of you and your relationship. You can plan the day the way you would like to spend one of the best days of your life. How can you celebrate your love with each other? Maybe there are activities that you like to do together? It’s good to think about that when planning an elopement, so it can become the unforgettable experience.
How does the ceremony look like?
When eloping, couples do write their own vows and read them to each other. Exchanging your own wedding vows is very meaningful, intimate and beautiful experience. It takes a lot of courage to speak straight from your heart, but the ceremonies with self written vows are the most touching and emotional, one of a kind. With elopements, you don’t have to censor yourselves when you write your vows. The intimacy allows couples to share their words honestly, without worrying about what an entire room full of people might think or say. That is absolutely precious and the most important thing about elopement.
Does en Elopement need to be a secret?
Eloping means that you forego a formal wedding and instead, choose to elope for the ceremony. It doesn’t necessarily mean that you secretly run away with your partner without telling anyone. There’s a lot of ways to announce to the world that you are eloping or you’ve eloped. Your marriage is worth celebrating with the people that matter to you, no matter how you choose to get married.
Does an Elopement have to be only two of us?
While the elopement can be only the two of you, it doesn’t have to! Eloping never means that you have to exclude the people you love. It’s not that you can’t invite anyone, it just means your guest list might be shorter, and you decide who you want to be with you on this special day. If your favorite people support you and your decision, an elopement with up to 20 guests can feel just as special. But, for a lot of couples, an elopement experience means that it’s just the two of them. If that’s what resonates with you, that’s a way to go! No outside opinions, just follow your heart.
Is an Elopement selfish?
A lot of couples worry they’re being selfish. And a lot of families tell them they are. But, what’s selfish about wanting to enjoy your wedding day? What’s selfish about getting married in a way that feels right to you? If you don’t see yourself having a traditional wedding and even thinking about planning one gives you a headache, then why do it only because other people do it? No one gets to make decisions about your wedding day – because it’s your wedding day! Making the decision to elope can be stressful for a lot of couples, but if it feels right to you, you’re making the right choice.
To sum up: what Elopements are all about?
Elopements are all about the eloping couple & their relationship. It’s getting married with intentionality and focusing on unforgettable experience. Elopements allow you to put traditions aside if they don’t speak to you and do things in harmony with yourselves. In short: to elope means to get married in your own way.
What do you think of modern Elopements? Personally, I love the whole idea. If you are planning your elopement and looking for a photographer and videographer, we’re here for ya! Get in touch and tell us more about your plans for this special day!
