In modern culture, the word “elopement” has an ever-changing definition. It used to be a secretive and quick union, and some of those negative connotations are still connected to what we think when a couple elopes.

While the wedding industry has changed the idea of elopements over the years, COVID really blew open the doors. The current events caused many couples getting married to reconsider the idea of elopement and what that meant. 

Finally, it is starting to become more known that elopements are not a shameful way to celebrate a wedding, but a unique adventure and intimate experience. Still, eloping is not the “normal” wedding experience, so there are many myths that shed a negative light on eloping couples.

myth #1: Eloping couples are selfish

TRUTH: This is probably the most common reason that keeps couples from planning an epic “just us” wedding experience. The truth is, everyone is going to have an opinion about your wedding day and how it should look. But honestly, the only two opinions that matter are yours and your fiancé’s. It is never selfish to be true to yourself.

How you choose to celebrate your wedding day is completely up to you. If having a big wedding with a giant bridal party is your dream, then by all means, do it. But if you want a different experience to share, being honest about why you decide on an intimate ceremony can help your family and friends understand and support your elopement. There are plenty of ways to involve the people closest to you, or celebrate your marriage after your elopement day.

myth #2: Elopements are cheap

TRUTH: One of the primary differences in elopements and weddings is the allocation of your wedding budget. Eloping doesn’t mean you are trying to skimp on your wedding day. It simply means that you can bring your budget back to a special way to celebrate your wedding day instead of catering for a large guest list.

Want to splurge on an elaborate floral backdrop to say your vows, or a helicopter tour to a secluded mountain top? Maybe you want a chef to come to your Airbnb to cook a romantic dinner for the two of you, or spend a little extra on the rings you will wear for the rest of your lives. Eloping doesn’t mean you are cutting corners on your wedding day, it simply means you are choosing a different way to celebrate.

myth #3: Elopements can’t include guests

TRUTH: Just because you are not celebrating with distant relatives and plus ones you don’t know, doesn’t mean that you can’t celebrate with your closest family and friends. Eloping can absolutely just be the two of you, but maybe you want your parents there… your best friends, or your kids… your dog? By all means, bring them along!

The wedding industry has created a general definition that an elopement is considered less than 25 people. However, there are no hard and fast rules when eloping. In fact, there are plenty of intentional ways to include the people closest to you in your elopement.

Myth #4: destination Elopements are not legally binding

TRUTH: You absolutely can plan a legal ceremony at your elopement. This will require an officiant and one or two witnesses (depending on the state you get married in). If you are planning a destination wedding outside of the country, the details may be a little more complicated. Either way, legal ceremonies are absolutely possible on your elopement day.

Some couples chose to celebrate their marriage with a more symbolic ceremony, signing the legal papers before or after the fact. Then they can extend their options for the elopement celebrations virtually to the moon!

Myth #5: Elopements are last minute and unplanned

TRUTH: This goes back to the old concept of elopements being people running off to get married in a secretive, shameful manner. There are so many reasons why a couple may choose to elope, and none of them equal a shotgun wedding. That is not what an elopement means anymore.

There is nothing rushed or quick about an elopement. You can enjoy a day that is stress-free and intentional to celebrate the two of you, but an elopement is still a wedding. It still requires adequate planning and organization to make your day as special and meaningful as you deserve.

Have you started planning your special day? Elopement planning services, including location suggestions and custom timeline development is included in any of my elopement packages. Reach out to get started.