What is an elopement?

An elopement is a wedding ceremony that is small and private, typically involving only the couple and a few close witnesses or no witnesses at all. It's a departure from a traditional large wedding, prioritizing intimacy and personal significance over a grand public display.

Here are some key aspects of elopements:

• Small guest list (or no guests): This is the defining characteristic. Elopements may include just the couple, or a small handful of very close family or friends. Often, the focus is entirely on the couple and their commitment to each other.

• Secretive or surprise: While some couples announce their intention to elope, others keep it a secret until after the ceremony. This can add an element of excitement and spontaneity.

• Location-focused: Elopements often take place in beautiful and meaningful locations. These might be scenic natural settings like mountains, beaches, forests, or a location holding special significance to the couple (like where they first met).

• Simple and informal: The ceremony itself is usually less formal than a traditional wedding, though this varies greatly depending on the couple's preference. It can be anything from a simple exchange of vows to a more elaborate but still small-scale ceremony.

• Cost-effective: Generally, elopements are significantly less expensive than traditional weddings due to the smaller scale and fewer guests. This allows couples to allocate resources to aspects that are most important to them, such as the location or photography.

• Focus on intimacy and personal expression: The lack of societal pressures and expectations allows couples to deeply personalize their ceremony and focus on what truly matters to them, creating a profoundly meaningful experience.

• Adventure and spontaneity: Many elopements are combined with an adventurous getaway, making the whole experience a unique and memorable journey for the couple.

While the term "elopement" once carried a connotation of secrecy or running away, it's now often seen as a conscious and romantic choice that reflects a couple's priorities and desire for a personal and intimate celebration.