How could we narrow this list down to 3? Well, if you are looking for an amazing destination wedding location in the USA, you certainly have quite a few to choose from. In fact, some might say a few too many. This is after all a gorgeous country with a lot to offer, both in terms of natural splendor as well as urban attractions. You could make the argument that there are dozens of “best” elopement or wedding locations in the United States and Canada alone, without even factoring in Mexico and the Caribbean.

So what is a couple to do? Searching on the web, you may quickly feel overwhelmed with the selection. It’s common to see pieces titled “the 50 best wedding destinations” or “35 destination elopement venues you’ll love.” Well, for a couple looking for inspiration and guidance, this could go both ways. While it’s nice to see pretty pictures of every single national park and five star hotel in the country, this doesn’t really help in any way if you’re actually trying to narrow down your selection.

That’s why we decided to put this short and sweet list together based on the most important qualities a couple is liable to want out of their wedding destination. By no means meant to be exhaustive, this guide is for couples who feel a bit smothered by all of the possibilities and want a clean cut list of the best possible and most popular choices that are already proven favorites.

Might as well start off with a bang! New Orleans is without a doubt one of the finest locations in the country for a destination wedding or elopement. This beautiful city has a ton of points in its favor for couples who are looking for a fun, exciting, and romantic experience.

What’s not to love about this city? With a rich history and unique combination of cultural influences, you can see how the artistry of the city washes over every square in of real estate. From lavish hotels with world class restaurants, to a vibrant nightlife perfect for eloping couples who simply want a night on the town they will never forget, to expansive gardens and parks that make excellent “natural wedding” settings, this city has it all.

Perhaps more important than the sights is the mentality of the people and the general atmosphere of the city in general. New Orleans is a very open and culturally progressive location that embraces all genders and sexes, so you need not worry if you and your significant other will be welcome. New Orleans is a very LGBTQ friendly area that is fully accommodating to same-sex unions.

Years of hosting elopements and weddings has also created a city-wide infrastructure that is simply very accommodating to couples in general. Nowhere else around the country will you feel as if a city were meant for an elaborate elopement ceremony. Walk through aesthetic alleyways, partake in the quaint cafes, ride in a carriage, take romantic photographs under the boughs of a massive oak, and enjoy the year-round beautiful weather, all while immersing yourself in a busy and vibrant community and culture. There is always something going on in New Orleans, whether it’s a jazz festival, cultural parade, or other feature, if you decide to get married here you certainly won’t be bored.

These islands have long been a tourist hotspot and for good reason. Hawaii is simply beautiful, with a wide variety of luxurious hotels and outdoor locations that would make for an idyllic ceremony.

What many couples love about Hawaii is that it’s almost as if you’re traveling to an exotic location without actually leaving the country. What’s more, its popularity as a wedding destination has produced an infrastructure not unlike that of New Orleans, with many different venues waiting to cater specifically to couples. It’s not difficult to get all-inclusive wedding packages there, for instance.

Hawaii is also an incredible place if you are looking for a rich cultural experience that’s different from the norm on the mainland. You may enjoy walking through the botanical gardens, fire spinning demonstrations, helicopter rides, and a litany of other exciting and adventurous options for couples looking or a truly enriching experience.

If urban delights and the idea of a tropical paradise doesn’t meet your needs, the last option we are mentioning may be just what you’re looking for out of a destination wedding ceremony. The mountains of Colorado are simply stunning, and the surrounding areas are perfect for couples looking for something a bit more rustic and nature-orientated than the previous two entries.

The main difference between a wedding in the Rocky Mountains as opposed to New Orleans or Hawaii, is that the temperature and setting will be altogether different. Depending on the exact location, altitude, or time of the year, having a full outdoor wedding may not be ideal. This is actually part of the appeal however, as you can tailor your experience depending on your specific needs. If you want a majestic outdoor wedding in the middle of a beautiful forest, one of the summer months will obviously be ideal, and you could still venture to higher altitudes to experience cooler weather as desired.

Alternatively, you might be interested in the full winter wonderland experience and would prefer skiing and a cozy log cabin to warm sand and sun. The other difference is that your hotel options and other elopement or wedding services may be somewhat more limited, so more planning and forethought may be necessary to make sure everything plays out the way you like.

There are plenty of other venues around the country that make excellent wedding destination spots, but you can use these three as a template. For instance, you may not want to go all the way out West just to venture to the Rocky Mountains for your ceremony, but you will get a similar experience if you travel to the Poconos or Catskills.

The most important factor in your decision should be if the setting fits your needs and enables you to have a beautiful ceremony exactly how you envisioned it. If you want more destination wedding ideas, be sure to look at our blog, or follow us on Facebook!

While an elopement tends to be cheaper than a wedding in general, you may still be wondering if there are ways you can save a little money without cutting any corners on your special day.

This is understandable, because given how tight everyone's budget is these days, and with jobs and the economy uncertain, being smart with your money is more important than ever. While you don't want to shortchange yourself, saving money on your destination elopement can help you put it toward other things such as a house or much-needed car.

The following money-saving tactics can be used to help you manage your elopement budget and get the most out of your money.

Yes, there is something romantic about just dropping some money on a flight to an exotic location and then getting married without any forethought, but chances are you will have a much better experience with a little planning beforehand.

Especially in terms of budgeting, you will have a much better chance at finding deals and planning your money strategically if you create a proper budget beforehand. This doesn't need to be anything complicated though. In fact, in this case simple is actually better.

What does your elopement need?

The important thing is not to get too deep into the nitty gritty here. You're not trying to get bogged down with dollar signs and lose sight of the romantic and spontaneous element of your destination elopement.

What you do want to do is make it easy to see where you are sinking your money so that you can make changes where needed. For most elopements, the bulk of the cost will be spent on travel and lodging, so these areas are where you want to focus on the most.

There's no right or wrong place to elope. Whether you want to get married at a park near your house or halfway across the world, that's part of what makes getting eloped so special. You are in control and you can decide for yourself how you want your special day to go.

This is also one of the most romantic aspects of eloping, because you aren't confined to your local or family church or similar venue. The world is truly your oyster, and as long as it works for both you and your significant other, you can go just about anywhere to have your ceremony.

What you do want to make sure of here is that you are selecting a destination that resonates with you. Be confident in your choice so that there are no regrets.

You should spend time looking for deals on flights on sites like Kayak and Expedia so that you can save a bit of money here. There are always deals popping up when it comes to airfare, so being vigilant will pay off.

What is the best destination elopement location?

 These are just a few of the popular options. Many couples adore the New England coast or the northern Appalachian mountains in locations such as the Poconos or the Catskills.

California is also home to a wide variety of beautiful locations that would be perfect for a destination elopement. Regardless of what you choose however, you have to consider things such as climate and how that will affect both what you wear and where you will stay.

Some elopements can be "outdoorsy" while others stick to an indoor ceremony and keep all of the entertainment indoors as well. When you are planning your elopement, these are all factors that you want to plan ahead for, otherwise it could result in some hassle that you don't want.

When it comes to elopement destinations that are affordable and can certainly meet all of your needs, many couples choose New Orleans. This beautiful city is situated conveniently in the rough middle of the country and has everything you could want out of a fun and romantic locale. 5-star restaurants that serve a variety of delicious food, a culture-rich city that offers an abundance of art, museums, parades, and other elements to take part in. Scenic parks dot the city and offer amazing venues with which to marry in, and the hotels are absolutely outstanding.

You can find incredible package deals for eloping in New Orleans that make getting eloped there one of the most affordable options for couples who want to save money. With the right deals, you can craft a magnificent destination wedding or elopement ceremony in New Orleans for a fraction of what it might cost in other cities.

• Don't feel pressured to invite half your extended family. You can save a ton of money on your elopement by inviting only your closest friends and family. Nothing wrong with a small wedding or minimal elopement!
  
• The classic expensive white wedding dress isn't the only option available. When you get eloped, any style is on the table, as long as you love it and it fits your theme.
• Look for a high quality elopement package rather than purchasing everything separately, this is a great way to save money and get deals.
• Don't go crazy with airfare. There are amazing deals out there and if you are comfortable with an uninspiring flight experience, you can save that money for actual entertainment and fun at your destination!
• Invest in a high-quality photographer. This is not an area you want to skimp!
• Remember to budget in your travel expenses as you venture around the city. Uber and taxi costs can add up if you aren't careful. Consider renting a car if you intend on frequent travel

Most of all, have fun! This is your day and it should be special.

One of the best part about eloping is that there isn't nearly as much pressure to spend a bucketload of money. You can plan carefully and have an incredible elopement for a surprisingly low cost. Keep your eyes open, plan ahead, and you will find that saving money when you elope is easy and pays off in less stress and more fun for you.

Alternative wedding formats are growing in popularity everywhere given the restrictions on crowd sizes and other factors that have developed over the past few months due to COVID. This is also a trend that began a few years ago, with couples seeking more intimate, smaller wedding formats that are more personalized and fun.

That being said, what exactly is a minimalist wedding and is it something that you and your significant other would be interested in?

A minimalist wedding is basically a traditional ceremony that cuts down as much of the fluff as possible to create a small, simplistic experience that focuses on romance and quality rather than extravagance.

The point of a wedding ceremony is to honor the couple getting married. However, many couples have felt that the classic idea of a wedding kind of detracts from this, and have sought alternative ceremony formats that focus more on them instead.

Rather than treating your wedding like a giant party, a minimalist ceremony strips all of the “extra” stuff out of the equation and seeks to create an intimate space where the couple can enjoy themselves without a hundred other things going on.

Minimalist wedding ceremonies tend to have smaller crowds, less decorations, less frivolous expenses in general, and may not even include traditional wedding attire. The main defining element of this wedding format is in the artistry itself – minimalism. The use of simple, quiet, and spaced out décor elements at the ceremony itself feels open and refreshing and takes pressure off of the bride and groom to be to arrange a complex and expensive event.

Typically, a minimalist wedding pulls in elements of nature and uses simplicity to guide the decorating process. The ceremony itself is typically stress-free and elegant, and the setting quaint and even rural. The beauty of a minimalist wedding is the simplicity of it all. From the invitations to the ceremony itself, think about using basic colors, natural elements, and as few “extras” as possible, to create a streamlined and charming event that doesn’t feel stuffy or stressful.

This is one of the primary reasons why minimalist ceremonies are taking off, because they lack the rushing around and stressful atmosphere that is typically associated with the “traditional” style wedding. There is much less focus on creating this magnanimous event but rather something that comes from the heart and feels more whimsical and open.

Many minimalist ceremonies take place outside or in open-air halls, because a call to nature is always relaxing and romantic. Rather than cramming 100+ people into a dining hall or church, you can halve that number and reclaim a sense of simplicity by holding your ceremony in an attractive park or on the beach, with a minimal amount of hassle.

Generally speaking, minimalist weddings are more cost effective and don’t require nearly as many services and actual physical decorations, and usually have lower costs in regards to venue as well. Holding a minimalist ceremony is one way to save you from the headaches of high costs.

Being smart about the costs of your wedding is one of the biggest trends in marriage ceremonies right now. The economy is vastly different than it was even a few years ago, which means couples are having to shoulder new burdens that didn’t even exist when their parents got married.

Given how difficult it is to finance a house or even afford small luxuries these days, being smart about how you spend your money in the beginning of a marriage can be a game-changing decision. Rather than spending thousands of dollars on balloons and a wedding hall, a minimalist wedding may make use of natural decorations you can procure at a low cost, and venues that are either free or far cheaper than you would expect.

The central point of your ceremony should be you! Minimalist ceremonies highlight the couple by reducing unneeded distractions. They tend to focus more on simple elegance and simplicity rather than trying to impress your extended relatives. Many couples find the innate calmness and calls back to nature utterly refreshing and exactly what they want when it comes to getting married.

Whether you are thinking of getting married on a pretty local beach or in a charming New Orleans Park, a minimalist wedding ceremony is certainly a beautiful alternative that you will want to think about as you are planning your big day!

As the world slowly returns to some semblance of normalcy after the fallout from COVID-19 and the mass quarantining that took place all around the country, it is becoming clear that there may be a “new normal” taking effect in some areas of society.
One in particular is in how we conduct wedding ceremonies. Up until now, we took it for granted that most common and traditional wedding ceremonies crammed dozens, if not hundreds, of people into small areas such as local churches, hotel dining halls, and other such venues, and expected them to hug, share food, and in general enjoy themselves without a care for such things as social distancing.

Now however things are a bit different. We’re seeing the first signs everywhere, from new ways in which schools will be conducting business to how airports and local retail outlets operate. Social distancing, at least for the foreseeable future, might be here to stay in one form or another. Some businesses and social mores may change forever, with everyone’s new heightened awareness in terms of smart and safe hygiene practices.

But then, what does this mean for the wedding industry? Of course, with the advent of the Coronavirus, weddings and elopements in general came to a screeching halt. 2020 will be known worldwide as the year most couples simply forgot, with a supreme lack of wedding and even dating options available. Many of these restrictions for wedding venues and planning are expected to lift later this year or early next year, but it begs the question, will things really return to normal?

Are couples and their families really going to feel safe being in cramped little churches with a hundred other people, including many of whom would be considered “high-risk” due to their age? Is this really something we’re going to be seeing as early as this winter?
While for some, it’s to be expected that things will chug along as normal. After all, there are already beaches opening around the country, with oversized crowds that make it seem like these past few months never even happened. For others however, going back to the old way of doing things may just be one step too far.

This was already the trend anyway: the past couple of years have seen an upswell in the amount of couples getting happily eloped, as well as holding more intimate wedding ceremonies that include up to a couple dozen people, if that. These small weddings are beneficial in a variety of ways, which is ideal if you are a stressed out couple who wants to get the messy stuff over with and would prefer just to get on with the honeymoon, thank you very much!

In terms of smaller weddings, they are much easier to plan, far more friendly and intimate, require less people-managing, cost less, and are more adaptable. You can hold smaller weddings at a larger variety of venues, and in general they are much easier to make come together.

Smaller weddings also are much less pressure for the bride and groom. Stress is a massive problem for couples leading up to their big day. Between the planning and the financial side of things, many traditional weddings can seriously put a damper on things.
Elopements and intimate weddings were definitely the trend even before COVID-19 reared its ugly head, but now we’re seeing more evidence that traditionally larger weddings may be a thing of the past in a certain sense. While they will always be the preferred way to get married for many couples, others see the practical side of smaller weddings and with the added threat of Coronavirus floating around, they may just be the smarter choice overall.

In an uncertain world that also requires a bit of social distancing to ensure proper health standards, it makes sense that smaller weddings would be the answer. Couples are going to want to make sure everyone gets a proper amount of space, that no one feels cramped and that there is plenty of room to mingle without being crammed into corners or feeling hemmed in. Room for proper social distancing in lines, and in seating arrangements, will come into play as well.

These are very real circumstances that will have an effect on the way weddings play out for years to come. With that in mind, it’s important to take a look at the benefits of small weddings and realize that they may be just what you’re looking for on both the practical and romantic fronts.

Less costly and potentially far more intimate, small weddings may be the way to go in 2020 and beyond. Couples are already seeing the benefit of holding smaller ceremonies because doing so provides an array of key benefits.

One of the largest hurdles in holding a wedding is in the planning. Oftentimes, a wedding ceremony is a massive planning endeavor, requiring multiple people and a ton of scheduling, collaborating, and luck just to go off without a problem. Even when everything is going right, they can still be stressful.

Reducing stress leading up the ceremony is one of the best parts about small weddings. This adds to the air of romance and also improves the quality of the ceremony itself. With less stuff to worry about, you can focus on making the ceremony amazing.

This stress issue is also related to the cost as well. Smaller weddings are significantly cheaper, due in part to things like catering costs and decorations, which can add up if you book larger venues and have to appease 100 hungry mouths. Deciding instead to wine and dine 20 of your closest friends and family is much cheaper, and can allow you to spice up the menu with more options as well.

Speaking of which, smaller weddings permit a larger variety of venues and events. You can bring a lot more magic into your ceremony when you don’t have dozens of people to manage and think about. When the venue is smaller and everything happens faster, you are open to holding your ceremony in a larger variety of places and perhaps add other parts to it. You certainly have more leeway to make your ceremony your own and do what you want with it when you have less restrictions and don’t have to worry about so many different factors.

The last major benefit of smaller weddings would be in the intimacy itself. Many couples don’t like how formal and on-display a traditional wedding can feel. Couples don’t even get to spend all that much time together in these ceremonies, whereas with smaller weddings, they typically include much more casual events, including before the ceremony photo shoots and an increased emphasis on romance and intimacy rather than tired formalities.

Though COVID may have greatly impacted ourdaily lives, it’s not going to stop couples from getting married and having the wedding of their dreams!

In light of the recent circumstances surrounding COVID-19, traveling has certainly become somewhat less desirable. As couples come to grips with this new elopement landscape, they are looking for options and alternative places where they might be able to have an amazing and memorable experience.

The truth is, a local elopement can be just as magical as one that is held halfway across the country. The beauty of an elopement is you can infuse it with your own personality and energy.

There is no reason why you can’t craft an elopement that’s just as interesting and exciting as one in a faraway city without having to travel far, and if you choose, you can always save up the bulk of the money you had set aside for a “honeymoon” style destination for after the Coronavirus restrictions lift.

It’s a fairly common idea that the area where we grew up or currently live is the most boring place in the world and the only way you could possibly experience anything fun and  exciting is to leave your town and travel someplace “exotic.”

The truth is, there is beauty, fun, and magic everywhere. You simply have to take the time to discover it. This might require looking at a place you think you know very well in a new light.

Maybe that large park near you wouldn’t be so boring if you decorated a bit and set it up for an elopement celebration. Perhaps that small forest ten minutes away would actually make for a fun elopement adventure. There are museums, theaters, caves, woods, lakes, beaches, hiking trails, expeditions, and helicopter rides just about everywhere in the country if you know where to look.

Take some time and really delve into your area and research the various tours, nature preserves, parks, and other features that are present. Most of us live within only an hour’s drive of some incredible sights and amazing adventures. Just because you don’t need a flight to get there doesn’t mean it’s not exotic or can’t provide a stage magical enough for your elopement. Quite the contrary, it could become a place that you visit time and time again just because it’s so close to home!

Part of the excitement of staying in a faraway location when you get eloped is certainly the hotel. Who doesn’t love a ritzy 5-star hotel experience?

While you may not get an ocean view or exotic cuisine, most cities in America have at least a few incredible hotels. If you don’t want to save money by staying at home for your local elopement, you can simply book a stay at one of these amazing establishments or perhaps even arrange to have your elopement there.

Keep in mind however that at the moment, many hotels and other similar venues are not open for business due to COVID-19. So while this may be a perfectly viable option in a few months, right now it’s questionable.

If this is the case, you may want to plan your stay through Airbnb. Owners develop special rooms and units specifically for couples looking for places to stay on their small weddings or elopements, and you are likely to find such services in your area, even during this time.

Just because it’s small and local doesn’t mean you aren’t going to need elopement staples like a dress, floral bouquet, and a cake, to name just a few of the essential items. The key to holding any sort of elopement at this time is to strike a balance: don’t expect that you will be able to throw this grand event, because not all of the pieces will be there to work with.

However, if you do your research, you’ll find that quite a few local places of business are still open and are providing services such as curbside pickup and delivery. You can certainly arrange to have your elopement needs met right around your own town if you take the time to reach out to these establishments and get them on board with what your plans are. Most businesses are aching for customers right now and would be happy to accommodate you as best as possible.

Remember, everyone is dealing with the same restrictions you are. If you develop a long-term strategy and reach out to the right businesses in your area, you will certainly be able to have an elopement ceremony right in your own town.

You should consider however that many of the COVID-19 restrictions will be lifted over the next couple months, so as we inch into the summer, there will be a much greater chance that local businesses in your area will be able to accommodate your needs better. While formal elopement and wedding planning has been put on a small hiatus until the world returns to normal, that doesn’t mean people have stopped getting married.

Use your common sense judgment on whether it’s the right time, and remember to take your time with the planning. There is absolutely no rush, and if you do feel pressured or rushed, you should step back and discuss with your partner or family or whoever is applying the pressure and speak with them directly about the matter. Your safety and health and more important than anything, and the better you plan out your elopement in this time, the less you have to worry about when the magical day arrives!

When it comes to wedding ceremonies, there is certainly no one right way to have one. They come in all shapes, sizes, and varieties. In recent years, however, more intimate kinds of ceremonies have been rapidly gaining in popularity, one of which is the micro wedding.

What exactly is a micro wedding? Technically, it’s defined as a typical wedding ceremony involving less than a few dozen guests. They are known for being more intimate, more affordable, and more casual than your average wedding.

This is important, because while many couples would prefer to have a more intimate and affordable experience, they may not specifically prefer to elope, which is the most popular way of going about it.

Rather, couples can choose to “elope in place,” or have a much smaller, casual format wedding without traveling to an exotic destination or incorporating honeymoon elements into the ceremony itself.

There are numerous benefits to having a micro wedding. Perhaps the most important one is that it is far easier and more affordable to “personalize” a small wedding than a larger one. You have far more leeway with venues, menus, and other factors besides. You have more freedom to do what you want because you don’t have to accommodate 100 people and coordinate everything around them.

In fact, a micro wedding is great for couples who don’t really want to go over the top with their wedding proceedings and would much prefer a smaller, humbler kind of event that focuses more on the romance and being able to connect with your guests rather than trying to wow them with how much money is being spent. A micro wedding has the power to make everyone feel closer and more connected to the ceremony itself.

Of course, another huge benefit is simply the money you will save. So much of the cost of weddings is eaten up by having to cater to so many guests. This means seating for them, table decorations, a longer ceremony in general, and a ton more food. The costs for these kinds of things can add up pretty quickly.

Smaller weddings do away with much of these problems by limiting the guest count considerably. This opens up an array of possibilities, such as a smaller, more affordable venue, as well as a much easier time in customizing the menu. Because of the overall casual nature of a micro wedding in general, it’s also much more likely that you’re not going to be ordering crazy expensive food or decorations in the first place.

A micro wedding is about the union itself, the intimacy, the romance.

Which brings me to the next point, these kinds of ceremonies tend to stress free. They are easier to plan for, there’s far less chance of family drama, they aren’t breaking the bank, and overall they are far less nerve wracking for the bride and groom to be.

One of the reasons why so many couples are choosing alternative forms of wedding ceremonies is due in part because of the stress factor. It seems anymore we can’t escape stress, it’s everywhere. The last place you want it is in the planning of your wedding ceremony, or even worse, the day of.

Micro weddings by and large are much more casual, which means less headaches and stress for everyone involved.

The main concern here is that you are comfortable with your choice. If are fine with only inviting a couple dozen guests and you are looking forward to a ceremony at a smaller venue, then this might be the choice for you.

The main concerns usually fall into one of these categories:

• Am I OK with the idea of only inviting close friends and family?
• Will there be any backlash from family I don’t invite?
• Is there any pressure on me to have a huge wedding?

Notice how these points don’t concern the bride and groom at all. It’s usually outside influence that plays a huge role in the nature of our wedding ceremonies. That’s something that should change, and you can see this sentiment more and more as couples everywhere are choosing to have weddings that fit their needs rather than the needs of others.

If you already have a theme and a possible venue picked out, that’s great!
However, many couples who are just learning about micro weddings don’t really know where to start or how to go about planning one.

If that’s the case, you should sit down with your significant other and plan some of the details. Where would you like to have the ceremony? Do you want the theme to be closer to a traditional wedding style or something more exotic or unorthodox? Just how many people will you be inviting?

It’s so much easier to plan for a small wedding than a larger one, once you get into the details. If you still need more information about how to plan for your micro wedding, please refer to this amazing resource for micro wedding plans.

So you’ve made the decision to get eloped over a more traditional wedding, and excitement is already building. You’ve picked out your destination and know what theme you’re going for.

There’s only one thing left to do: announce that you’re actually eloping!

However, this can seem like a daunting premise.

After all, friends and family that may have expected you to have a full blown wedding and may have even been counting on an invite might not react exactly as you would like them to.

And how do you tell your parents?

This little guide will help you break the ice about your elopement and ensure everything goes as smooth as possible. While you can’t control how people react, it is your decision and part of making your decision is owning it.

Be upfront, be strong, and most of all, don’t be afraid to display how happy you are. If you are shy and unsure about your decision, you will only give other people ammunition to use against you and attempt to “talk you out of it.”

With that being said, here are a few key suggestions to making sure your elopement announcement doesn’t ruffle too many feathers.

The longer you wait, the more awkward it’s going to be and if you get into the planning stages of your elopement, you’re likely going to have to keep secrets from people that are close to you.

It’s best to avoid all of that dramatic stuff and come clean.

Yes, there is a certain mystique to the idea of jetting off to a faraway locale in the dead of night to get married, but this isn’t realistic or practical. You may even be planning on inviting your parents or close friends to your elopement, or relying on them to help you plan.

Don’t keep anyone in the dark. The sooner you announce, the better.

Also, while it’s not advised to show up to everyone’s doorstep and tell them in person, don’t let your close friends and family find out through social media. This is not what you want at all.

It’s best to pay a visit to your parents and tell them in person, at your earliest possible convenience.

There is no guarantee that they will fully support your decision, but if you own your choice and are sure in it, and they can see how happy you are, it is unlikely that they will make a big fuss.

The important thing is that they know.

One way to mitigate negative reactions and clear the air is to ask for their help in the planning phase, even if superficially.

If you are not personally inviting your parents, ask them for suggestions or advice on what to do or what to wear. Get them involved somehow, make them feel like they are needed.

Many of the negative reactions that occur because of elopement stem from the feeling of not being a part of what parents and close friends feel like is the most important day in your life. By extension it’s supposed to be one of the most important days in their own life.

If they are at least involved in the planning of this event, they will be far less likely to argue about it.

The key takeaway from this should be a focus on personalizing the announcement for your closest relatives and friends. Wait to announce your plans on social media until well after all the most important people have been notified.
Then feel free to post away!

This isn’t just for your sake.

There’s going to be a lot of people that want an inside view as to the goings-on of your elopement.

Yes, you’re going to want photos and videos for your own memories of course, but keep in mind that anyone who doesn’t get invited is going to feel left out. This will go double if they can’t see pictures on social media or get cute little video clips from you on their phones.

Your elopement is about you and your significant other, but you can’t ignore the fact that you have friends and family that are personally invested in you.
Return this investment by ensuring that you hire an amazing elopement photographer who knows how to get all the right angles and make other people feel like they are part of the moment.

A professional elopement photographer / videographer is worth their weight in gold, for so many reasons. They can be the difference between a bunch of lukewarm pictures you never look at or a lifetime of memories you share with your family for decades to come.
Make plans early on to seek out a great local elopement planner or photographer who can help you stage great photoshoots and who you know you can rely on during the ceremony to capture all the right moments and “deliver” these moments to your friends and family.

Your parents and other close friends and family should be made aware that you are going to document as much of your elopement as possible and that they will feel “almost as if they are there.”

It’s the least you can do if you aren’t inviting them, and this will go a long way in ensuring that there is no hurt feelings.

There’s always going to be people who don’t understand.

You are choosing to get eloped in part because you don’t want all the stuffiness and drama associated with typical weddings.

The last thing you want to do is escalate any negative reactions that come from announcing your plans.

So when the time comes for you to announce, expect negative reactions ahead of time and make the mindful decision not to reciprocate.

A huge life lesson is realizing you can’t control other people and you can’t control how they react. Sometimes people get upset and angry and there is nothing you can do. You don’t want to get in the habit of replying to these sorts of reactions with negative reactions of your own.

You could make the argument that you could have avoided the reaction by caving and canceling your elopement. But then you are basically being controlled by other people’s imbalanced emotions that come from a place of ignorance and not understanding.

It’s best in these kinds of scenarios to keep an open mind and reciprocate any negative feelings with open understanding and patient love.

Also remember that one person’s “no” can easily be transformed into a “yes” after a few weeks of seeing how happy you are. Set a good example and don’t exchange negative emotions.

If a parent or close friend does react very negatively to your decision, that says a lot more about them than it does about you. Gently accept their reaction but tell them you will not act on it and will wait happily for them to come around.

After all, this is your special day and you want them to be a part of it. Make sure they understand that.

If you inform them that you will be waiting with love for them to come around, you have a much greater chance for them to see your point of view than reacting negatively.

You will also find that this will reduce your own stress level, even if you would have much preferred if they just agreed with you and were happy.

But you can’t control everyone’s emotions or expect certain reactions from them.
Just own your decision and approach the subject from a place of love and you will get a much better result than if you announced your choice with arrogance and an attitude.

Share your reasons for getting eloped. Make a statement!

You made the decision, so don’t be afraid to tell people your reasoning behind it.

Are you saving money for a house? Are you trying to have a more stress-free wedding than a traditional ceremony typically allows? Did you want more personal time or a chance to see an exotic location or do something that has more meaning for you personally, rather than getting married at your local church?

Your decision matters, so share it so people understand.

People aren’t mind readers. Some may even think the worst, like you are trying to avoid family or that you are hiding some secret or something.

While you aren’t likely to encounter such dramatic reactions, you never know. Don’t leave anything to chance. Be free to inform your friends and family why an elopement is right for you.

This will clear the air and allow for a better understanding all around.

Remember, your elopement is supposed to be your time. The last thing you want to do is complicate it by hiding your decision or keeping people out of the loop.

Put in the effort and share your plans with the ones who love you. Guaranteed this will get the best possible reaction and provide the least amount of stress when it matters most.

Click HERE to learn the 5 secrets to a successful (and stress-free) elopement and BONUS checklist!
 

What could be more romantic than getting married in a cozy little bed and breakfast in the city of your dreams?

Bed and breakfast elopements are extremely popular, and for good reason. A great bed and breakfast is a magical experience in and of itself: inviting hospitality, simple luxury, delicious food, history and art, as well as easy access to the local attractions.

Imagine getting eloped in such a setting? Thousands of couples do just this every year, and rave about their experiences!

Here are our six picks for the absolute best bed and breakfast elopement experiences in the country.

The epitome of southern charm, this cozy little bed and breakfast sits peacefully in the northern Virginia countryside, just waiting for people to make use of its charming 13.6 acres, wooded trail, and gorgeous accommodations.

Boxwood Villa is the perfect setting for a more intimate bed and breakfast elopement experience.

If you had your sights set on a quaint outdoor elopement ceremony under a magnificent oak tree, with views of the surrounding countryside and full catering and outdoor guest accommodations, the Villa won’t disappoint.

Make your reservations at the earliest possible chance, spots fill up quickly at this hot destination!

With an exquisite view of Lake Superior, and enough classy charm for a dozen bed and breakfast venues, this self-styled “country inn” has been hosting weddings, elopements, and other special events for decades.

They have two properties in the area that provide a seamless romantic experience. The Inn proper, and La Chateau, as well as a cottage that’s perfect for elopements as well.

With indoor and outdoor options for events, views of Lake Superior, on-site gourmet restaurant, seasonal events, and even a “Moroccan” suite, it’s easy to see why this Midwest bed and breakfast became an elopement hot spot.

New England has always been a seemingly mystical place, and has long been a hot spot for couples all over the world looking for a romantic and peaceful wedding venue.

The gently rolling hills, the fall foliage, the serene countryside. The only thing that would make the setting better is a big cozy Victorian inn by the sea.

Well it just so happens that the Newagen Seaside Inn is all that and more.Overlooking the beautiful Boothbay Harbor, the Inn boasts a variety of attractions and accommodations that make it made for elopements.

Fine Dining at the Pub, honeymoon suite with an ocean view, an aquarium, kayaking, sailing, horseback riding, several lighthouses to explore, trips to nearby Monhegan Island by boat and more.If outdoor activities are your idea of fun and doing them with partner during your elopement sounds like an unforgettable experience, this is one bed and breakfast option you don’t want to pass up.

Known affectionately as an oasis in the heart of New Orleans, Terrell House is one of the most popular Bed and Breakfast’s in the city, and perhaps the one most well suited for elopements.

The building itself is a piece of art and history, built in 1857, and it has been lovingly maintained and refurbished to this day. Now it stands as one of the premiere bed and breakfasts in the area, not least of which because of its luxurious accommodations and world class service.

Each room is decorated uniquely and arranged with antique furniture, adding to the house’s quaint and artful appearance. Couples enjoy its simple, elegant atmosphere that takes you back to the turn of the last century, while still maintaining all the modern amenities you could ever ask for.

One of its greatest features is its expansive courtyard that’s perfect for wedding and elopement ceremonies. Talk about the centerpiece of any photo shoot. 

For a touch of European style class right here in America, we have California’s Mill Rose Inn.

Located in Half Moon Bay, the bed and breakfast is known for its downright opulent setting, that gives couples a true sense of romance and mystique.

It’s main claim to fame has to be its luscious garden, which provides the perfect backdrop for couples trying the knot. They’ve got everything from a garden-enclosed gazebo with a private Jacuzzi, to fireplaces, claw foot baths, private entrances, massage services, and plenty of packages specially tailored for couples getting married.

To say that the Inn is luxurious doesn’t really do it justice. Described as “paradise” by some of its patrons, you would be hard pressed to find a better elopement venue in the entire area.  

Eloping in the Rockies? Why Not!

This rustic but extravagant Inn provides everything a couple could want for a simple country elopement in the mountains.

Known for its numerous fishing locations, the area is also home to a wide variety of other attractions, including river rapid boating, skiing and other mountain sport activities, nature hiking spots, bird watching, national parks and more.

The Inn itself prides itself on comfort and rustic charm: no expensive tapestries and antiques crammed into every room here. Just a warm atmosphere and an amazing backdrop for your mountain elopement!

The idea of a holiday elopement either sounds like a magical adventure or a recipe for a headache. Both outcomes are entirely possible if you go into everything blind!

If your dream is to get eloped during the holidays, we’re here to offer some quick and friendly advice to make sure that dream doesn’t turn into a mess.

With the holidays comes the warmth of friends, family, hot cocoa, and snuggling up by the fireplace, the beauty of winter with snow and decorations, and the promise of good times and long-lasting memories, so it makes sense that having your elopement at this time of the year would be romantic and fun.

The problem starts when you look at the logistics. It’s hard enough planning a Christmas party or navigating crowded streets and malls during the holiday rush, then you have to factor in Federal holidays and people’s tough schedules. How in the world do you plan any kind of wedding or elopement in all this?

It’s not as difficult as you might think, but a little planning goes a long way.

If you’re having a lot of guests at your elopement, don’t expect everyone to be warm to your idea of having your ceremony on Christmas day. There may be some pushback, even if you announce this months in advance.

The idea of having your elopement on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, or New Years Eve sounds like something from a fantasy come to life, but in reality it will end up being closer to a romantic comedy if you’re not careful.

You can capture the magic of Christmas and not actually have your elopement on Christmas Day. The weekend in between Christmas and New Years might better suit your needs if you are inviting a lot of guests. If there is travel involved, you may want to aim for the week before Christmas, or even two weeks before.

If travel is minimal or if you are only inviting a few close friends and family, a Christmas Day elopement might be in the cards however. This is something you want to plan way ahead of time and do all the necessary work toward well in advance, including anything to do with your marriage license. Which brings me to the next point.

You don’t want to be in a situation where you arrive at your destination and find yourself unable to get your marriage license because local government offices are closed for the holidays.

Due to the nature of the holidays in general, you want to make sure you give yourself plenty of wiggle room when it comes to getting your marriage license. This means that you should expect traffic, long lines, and other random acts of holiday happenstance, to encroach on your schedule.

Remember also that just because there isn’t an actual Federal Holiday on certain days, doesn’t mean the local area you are in isn’t celebrating a holiday of some sort. December is a time of celebration for a wide variety of different religious faiths and cultures around the country.

You also have to factor in local holiday parades, as well as traffic congestion during times when towns have Santa drive through with fire trucks, and similar events. Do your due diligence, and planning around the holidays will be a breeze. Don’t expect everything to line up for you if you don’t research and plan accordingly however.

You may already have an idea in your head of what the perfect holiday elopement would look and feel like, and that’s okay. But you do want to remain grounded and plan things accordingly.

For example, if you are planning any kind of outdoor activities, including a romantic photo shoot, or the actual ceremony, you have to take into account that inclement weather is a very real possibility.

It may simply be too cold outside for you or your guests to feel comfortable. And though the idea of a snowy outdoor photo shoot sounds magnificent, it won’t be a fun time if you go in without being prepared to deal with the elements.

Dress for the occasion when holding any parts of the elopement ceremony outside, and that includes boots and appropriate accessories if it’s really cold. There’s nothing romantic about frostbite.

You also want to take into account the simple logistics of the holiday season. What venues will be open, what roads will be closed, what places will be packed with people.
Learn about the area you are planning for your elopement. What are the roads like around the venue you chose? What’s opened and closed? Make sure you book your hotel well in advance, because people travel during the holidays and make a ton of last minute reservations. Also remember flight delays and travel times.

You can certainly plan for a “Christmassy” elopement, but make sure you’re doing the work in the background to make sure it goes off without a problem. This is one reason why elopement planners are so important, they can handle a lot of these kinds of headaches for you!

There are dozens of ways to incorporate loved holiday traditions and customs into your ceremony. Maybe your after-party will feature ugly Christmas sweaters, maybe your ceremony will have some coincidentally placed mistletoe hanging overhead. Perhaps your beverage of choice will be eggnog.

Whatever the case is, if you’re going to have a holiday elopement, play it up!

If you’re purposefully going someplace snowy for your ceremony, ice skating and skiing are two exciting and potentially romantic activities you can fill your week with. Consider holding your ceremony in a cabin or lodge, replete with cozy fireplace and holiday decorations.

Does the city you’re getting eloped in have a notoriously walkable downtown area full of restaurants and stores? This might be an opportunity to have a chilly night on the town, do some window shopping, purchase a couple early Christmas gifts for each other, and have a romantic dinner by candlelight to cap the night.

Another option for making the most of your holiday elopement is enjoying the Christmas holiday itself away from home. Do all the necessary planning and celebrate Christmas morning with your significant other in your own little world, or perhaps with some close friends and family along as well. What better way to spend your elopement “honeymoon” exchanging gifts and lounging around eating chocolate and drinking eggnog? Sounds like something out of a movie!
 

Because they are so much easier to plan than typical Weddings, you could say that an elopement is already a great “wedding hack,” but even the most effortless elopements come with their fair share of planning and little hurdles.

It doesn’t matter what stage of the planning you’re on, we think you’ll benefit from a few tips that will make your magical day even more enjoyable.

With just a few small adjustments, you can save a ton of work and really make your elopement an incredible flawless experience.

Don’t worry about what other people are thinking when it comes to your elopement. Actually, don’t think about anything else at all.

Your elopement should be about you and your significant other. Not fancy stories on Instagram, not living it up every minute, not showing off, nothing like that.

To truly get the most out of your elopement, be mindful of the time you share with your partner, and any family and friends who are with you. These are moments you’re going to want to remember for a lifetime.

You’ll also appreciate the small things more if you aren’t mentally caught up in everyone’s perception of your elopement or what life will be like after you get home. None of that matters, it will work itself out.

The moment is all that matters.

You’re not as savvy with a camera as you think you are!

It’s so important to hire a decent photographer and / or videographer for the elopement ceremony and any other events or parts of the elopement you want to capture.

There’s nothing wrong with taking plenty of pictures yourself with your phone, but when it comes time to really capture the moments that matter, you’re going to want to leave it to a professional.

When it comes to eloping, the lion’s share of the money you want to spend services on should be in the photography. This is not something you want to leave to chance.

Plus, having a good photographer means you don’t really have to think too much about the photography at all. They will be there to capture all the right moments, leaving you to focus on the actual elopement.

Save yourself a headache and don’t skimp in this department. Find a solid photographer in the area you are getting eloped at, and let them handle that aspect of the elopement.

Can’t stress this enough. Don’t leave the legalities of your elopement till the zero hour.

Actually, once you decide on a location and begin the initial steps to planning your elopement, this is when you want to contact the local municipal authorities or look up online exactly what you need to do in order to get married legally in that state or city, and then do everything in your power to take care of it then and there.

This way, when you arrive for your elopement, there won’t be any surprises. Nothing can put a damper on a fantastic elopement quite like legal snafus.

Early on in your elopement planning you should pick the location you want to get married in, and also choose an overarching theme.

This will make planning the smaller aspects of the ceremony easier. This includes what to wear and the location of the actual ceremony, as well as possible events before and after the ceremony.

For instance, if you have a general idea that you want to get eloped on a beach, you will want to craft your ceremony around this theme. This means that it’s probably a good idea to account for the weather and environment by not wearing an excessively large gown or anything that would make the ceremony uncomfortable.

Is your ceremony going to feel like a party or be more casual? Will it be intimate and romantic or exciting and fun?

Picking a theme will automatically reduce the amount of choices you have when thinking up color schemes, clothing options, or anything else you want to incorporate into the elopement, making the entire process of planning everything far easier.

One important thing to remember about your elopement is that you don’t want to try and cram too much in or be too elaborate.

The whole point of an elopement is to reduce the stress and clutter that sometimes comes with your average wedding. In fact, because of how easy it is to plan an elopement in comparison, some couples tend to want to tack on a bunch of events or ideas at the last minute.

This is something you want to avoid. A little goes a long way with elopements. The less you have to pack, the less engagements you have to attend, the less you feel like you’re being shuffled from one event or sightseeing spot to another, the better.

You want to capture a feeling of freedom in your elopement. You want to leave space for you and your significant other to relax, and allow the magnitude of the marriage to sink in.

Don’t feel pressured to turn every minute of the entire elopement stay into an Instagram photoshoot or wild thrill. You’ll appreciate everything a whole lot more if you have downtime between the events you have planned.

This goes for the day of the ceremony as well. Don’t try and turn the elopement ceremony into a 10-step extravaganza. Simple and small is almost always better.

Want more elopement hacks? Check out our tips on getting eloped on a Budget!
Considering marrying in New Orleans?  Check out some stunning locations!