Picking the Perfect Elopement Location
Ready to shake it up, ditch tradition, pop some bottles, and get married elopement style? A traditional big wedding isn’t for everyone, and that’s more than okay, you’ve got options! The best part about eloping is you get to decide exactly what you want, and nothing is too far out of reach with a little planning. No matter your reason for celebrating on a smaller scale, finding the perfect place to tie the knot can feel more like an impossible feat instead of a romantic escape. Part of our services is making this whole process simple and stress free so let’s walk through it.
What is Eloping?
Eloping has changed quite a bit over the years. You don’t have to jet off to Vegas to seal the deal in secret anymore (although, we wouldn’t judge if that’s your vibe). Today elopements looks more like an intimate gathering of your closest friends and family at a remote location or just you and your betrothed saying your vows in front of two witnesses (you need at least two witnesses of at least 16 years of age to witness the legal bits of your ceremony - it’s provincial requirements). Where traditional weddings are big to-dos full of tradition and expectations, elopements completely take off the pressure of planning the perfect wedding. More and more, couples are looking to swerve the formalities of a wedding that don’t feel authentically them.
Destination vs. Courthouse Elopement
Many couples still appreciate the straightforward approach of getting hitched and signing their marriage license in the same building. If you still want to include your loved ones, you can follow this up with an epic post-elopement party to celebrate. This option is relatively cheap but doesn’t lend the same spontaneity or adventure that couples looking to elope might be chasing. A destination elopement involves a bit more planning (which we can work with you to do) and a few extra expenses but you get to say “I do” with a bit of flavour and start your next adventure right away.
Location, Location, Location
If you decide a destination wedding is for you, the options are endless. From seaside nuptials to private backyard vows and everything in between, you can quite literally get married anywhere. If a courthouse aesthetic doesn’t quite do it for you, consider a location you’re magnetized to. It could be a place you’re drawn to just for the visual appeal alone or a place that holds significance for you and your soon-to-be spouse. Whatever your choice, here are a few things to consider when picking your perfect place to elope:
Accessibility – You’ve chosen a more intimate type of celebration for a reason—privacy is important to you. And while a mountain top wedding or forest floor ceremony is totally swoon-worthy, consider the ease of access to getting there. Choosing a venue that can accommodate you and your guests will keep the stress to a minimum.
Plan Ahead – We know this sounds like the exact opposite of what you might expect from an elopement but we’re serious. If you still have a vision for your big day but don’t want all the trimmings of a traditional ceremony, you’ll have to do some research. You don’t want to be pulling your hair out, calling vendors like photographers and florals last minute. The same goes if you’re planning a destination wedding. Cash in on early bird airfare and hotel deals—your guests will thank you.
Number of Guests – There are some people you just can’t imagine your big-day without but not every location can accommodate a large group of guests. If you’re planning to elope, it’s likely you’ve already scaled back the guest list, but you should still check ahead. Check provincial and national parks to make sure your access point can accommodate your friends and family.
Pet Friendly – What could be better than including your furry friend on the biggest day of your life? If you’re thinking of adding a four-legged member to your wedding party, you’ll need to do a bit of research first and keep the following in mind:
Make sure your location is dog-friendly.
Hire dog-friendly vendors like photographers and officiants.
Bring food, treats and water to keep your pup happy all day.
Don’t forget your doggy waste bags.
No matter what walking down the aisle looks like to you, whether it’s a backyard wedding, an intimate beach ceremony at sunset, or a mountaintop wedding, make sure the day is about you and your partner. Romantic, silly, or just purely celebratory, the day is whatever you want it to be.
