Whether you’re drawn to the simplicity, privacy, or the freedom to focus on each other, eloping can be a wonderful alternative to a traditional wedding. One of the most attractive aspects of eloping is the *potential* cost-effectiveness. Let’s break down the expenses you might encounter when planning an elopement:
1. Location Fees: The beauty of eloping lies in choosing a meaningful location. It could be a stunning natural setting like a beach, a forest glade, or a mountaintop. Many public locations have minimal or no fees for elopements, but some private venues may charge a fee for using their space. Research potential locations early to understand any costs involved. Of course, the more exclusive you get, the more expensive it is going to be! Keep in mind the guest count you are trying to accommodate for the space(s) as well.
2. Officiant: Based on your religious beliefs and where you may be traveling to, it has become very popular to have a close friend or family get ordained to be able to marry you. This tends to be more sentimental for the couple and allows you to save extra money on not having to hire an officiant and potentially pay for their travel expenses as well.
3. Photography and Videography: This is a biggie!… and can be costly. If your photo/video team is in the same area as you are and you want them to travel to your elopement destination with you. Most vendors will require you to pay for their travel accommodations. If you are flexible and potentially want to save extra money, you can choose a photo/video team in the area where you are traveling to. Again, based on your location and how remote you will be, the prices may turn out to be very similar in the long run. Again, research is key here! Especially when it comes to photo and/or video! You want to make sure you get high quality results to remember and look back on for years to come.
4. Marriage License: Don’t forget the legal requirements! Research the cost of obtaining a marriage license in your chosen location. Prices can vary significantly between jurisdictions, so ensure you’re aware of any residency requirements or waiting periods.
5. Travel and Accommodation: Factor in travel and accommodation costs. Look for deals on flights or consider a road trip to save money. Many couples choose to combine their elopement with a honeymoon, so planning ahead can help you manage expenses. I think another item to highly consider is although elopement is beautiful and has that ‘euphoric’ feel, keep in mind the guests you’re inviting and if this is financially doable. You can put your friends & family in an awkward position if you are expecting them to pay for all travel expenses and the extended stay.
6. Travel and Accommodation: It’s important to keep in mind the ‘miscellaneous vendors’ that you may need for your elopement such as florist, caterer, bartender, baker/desserts, etc. Again, all stemming back to how many guests you are inviting and where you may be eloping to. Maybe you plan to have a South Haven beach wedding and dine with your 15 closest friends and family at a local restaurant. On the other hand, you might be considering inviting 50+ guests to an all-inclusive Cancun resort that requires food, alcohol and dancing (DJ). If you’re choosing elopement for cost purposes, something more reasonable like that beach wedding may be more your style!
Extras and Unexpected Costs: Lastly, while planning your elopement, budget for any unforeseen expenses that may arise. Having a buffer ensures you can handle unexpected costs without stress.
Total Cost Estimate: The total cost of an elopement wedding can vary widely depending on your choices and location. The beauty of elopements lies in their flexibility—you can spend as much or as little as you like, focusing on what truly matters: your commitment to each other.
Food for thought… if you are trying to be more budget friendly by eloping with a small group and upon returning, having a big party to celebrate… those costs of that celebration (reception) can get close to, if not the same cost as what it would have been to get married in your hometown/surrounding area. Hope I left you with some good pieces of advise to chew on if you’re considering an elopement!
We are the ‘catch all’ for your event day needs! The Groom’s boutonniere fell off and they need an extra pin? Easy peasy! Taking too long getting those dang loopholes around the buttons on your dress? Girl, don’t sweat it, we have a crochet hook just for that purpose!
