The Benefits of Eloping: Decide if it is right for you

Eloping has become more popular in recent years for a lot of reasons. Cost, Flexibility, and privacy being the top 3 reasons. Traditional weddings can be very expensive, and many couples are opting for a smaller, more intimate wedding ceremony as a way to save money. While the cost savings are a big plus, the options are far greater in terms of personalization, and flexibility when you elope vs having a traditional wedding. 

Planning a wedding can be stressful, and eloping simplifies the process. Couples can avoid the complexities of planning a big wedding and focus on the most important thing - their commitment to each other. An elopement also allows couples to create a wedding that is truly personalized to their tastes and preferences, without having to worry about accommodating the wishes of guests or family members. Eloping can offer more flexibility in terms of location, timing, and guest list as well. Couples can choose to get married at a destination of their choice, at a time that suits them, without having to worry about the logistics of a large wedding. 

​Eloping can be a wonderful way to celebrate your love and commitment to each other in an intimate and personal way. So, how do you decide if an elopement is right for you? ​Here are some points to consider before deciding if eloping is the right decision for you:

1. Choose the perfect location: One of the most important aspects of eloping is selecting the right location. Think about a place that has significance to you both or a place that you've always dreamed of visiting. Many couples opt for reciting their vows in the home that they share together, making the experience even more personal and one to be truly cherished. 
2. Endless Date/Time Options: A warm weather Saturday wedding are the first dates that get booked up for vendors leaving couples planning smaller weddings with fewer options. When you decide to elope, you can get married on a Tuesday! Suddenly your options are wide open and some vendors even offer discounts if you plan your ceremony during the week. 
   
3. Keep it simple: One of the advantages of eloping is that you can keep things simple and avoid the stress and expense of a big wedding. Focus on the things that are most important to you, such as exchanging vows and rings. Instead of a laundry list of vendors, you can focus on the ones most important to you. 
4. Commemorate the experience: While you may not have a big wedding, you'll still want to capture the memories of your elopement. Whether you want a wedding video, a photo album, or just a few snapshots of the occasion, consider hiring a professional to capture the magic of your day. If you're working with a tighter budget, talk to your officiant about taking a few photos. For all of my elopements, I offer to snap a few photos with my phone. While they aren't perfect or professional, they are good quality and free!, which is appealing to most couples. 
5. Make it legal: Check the requirements for getting married in your chosen location and make sure you have all the necessary paperwork. In Ohio, witnesses are not needed. You can get married with just your honey and the Officiant. It doesn't get anymore intimate than that! 
6. Celebrate after: Just because you're eloping doesn't mean you can't celebrate with friends and family afterwards. Consider throwing a party or having a small gathering to share your joy with loved ones. Some elopements may even turn into micro weddings with just your closest friends and family there to cheer you on as you say, "I Do." 
7. Consider your outfit: Just because you’re eloping doesn’t mean you can’t wear something special! Consider a white dress or suit, or even just something that makes you feel confident and happy. 

Ultimately it is your Wedding day! Eloping doesn't make it any less special. You can wear what you want, invite who you want, and celebrate however you want! Remember, the most important thing is that you and your partner feel happy and loved on your special day, whether that's through eloping or having a big wedding celebration. Either way, My Path My Purpose is here to make your ceremony special and unique just like you!