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Eloping Guide

An elopement has been central to many a historic bodice-ripping romance.  Though a secretive eloping is rarely necessary in our modern society, the concept of lovers fleeing to find happiness in far off places still appeals to the romantic in many people.  Modern elopements don't even have to be private; they often involve a few family members and close friends!  Remember that what's right for one may not be right for the other, but if you are even considering eloping, we are here to give you the details that you will need to know... before you go.  

Is It Right For You? 

You first need to examine your reasoning for eloping.  

  • Why are you eloping?  Some couples choose to elope due to the overwhelming demands of wedding planning.  If you are knee-deep in plans, the idea of abandoning them to impulsively get married sounds ideal.  However, you may want to think again.  There is a great feeling of accomplishment that comes with following through to the end.  Do NOT decide to elope two weeks before the wedding of your dreams, as you will have many upsets friends and family members.  If you have yet to make any plans and you and your fiancé(e) have decided that running off to get married sounds like a good idea for the pair of you, then this is a much more feasible plan.      
  • Who will this affect?  Though you might think that eloping is a creative way to tie the knot, think about how it will affect the people around you.  Even though the wedding IS about you and your bride or groom to be, it also affects your parents and close friends.  How would you feel if they held a party and didn't invite you?  Not to say that elopement is never a good idea, but it can be very hurtful if a family has already contributed their time and money towards a wedding that you suddenly decide to cancel. 

The Details 

If you have made the solid decision that eloping is right for you, there are a few things to take into consideration before you hop a plane to an exotic location. 

  • The Ceremony:  Have the elopement reflect who you are as a couple.  Head back to a destination that you have always loved or make your fantasy holiday a reality.  Be sure to call the embassy beforehand and check up on all of the legalities!  Then, plan to write your own vows or select readings that you relate to.
  • Paperwork:  As many elopements are spontaneous, legal paperwork tends to be a common problem.  Many foreign countries require legal documents to be sent months before the ceremony in order to process the marriage license.  Depending on where you are interested in going, a "quickie wedding" may not always work out the way you thought.
    • There are some countries ideal for eloping, as their paperwork formalities tend to be very simple.  They include the islands of the Caribbean,  Cyprus,  Malta,  and Greece. 

Celebrations

Some couples choose to tell their friends and family members about the elopement and some will wait.  Either way, you may want to consider having a reception of sorts back home.  This way, everyone that you care about still feels included in your wedding.  

  • Pre or Post Parties:   Have a celebration of the elopement either before you depart of after you arrive back.  You can make it as simple as an informal dinner with a few friends and family members or as elaborate as a party at a rented venue.  This serves as an alternative to the reception and you can invite only who you want to.  (The rest of your relatives and friends can simply receive a wedding announcement! )
    • Get creative and have a themed party to match your elopement destination. 
    • If your party is after the elopement, you might want to display and photos from the ceremony and honeymoon. 
  • Announcements:  Once you have returned from your destination, send out some announcements to proclaim the good news!  It's always nice to personalise stationery and include a snapshot of your elopement!  If you really want to get creative, send a memento that is representational of your destination.  This includes sending sea shells  or mini bottles of liquor  along with the announcement card.  

Related Guides

External Links

  • GHOTW.com: Great Hotels of the World presents a guide on how to elope.
  • LetsRunOff.com:  Elopements are made easy with these tips, discussion forums, and destination ideas.
  • LoveToKnow.com: An article to help you decide whether an elopement or a destination wedding is more your style.