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You’ve decided to forgo all the stress of wedding planning and run off just the two of you to say I Do. But just because this plan is much easier to pull off, that doesn’t mean you don’t have to put in some effort. Check out these six things you might forget to do before eloping.
1. Checking on legalities. “As a wedding planner, I’ve had to make sure I’m up to date on all the ‘legal’ requirements for couples wishing to elope in NYC,” says Renae Strozier of Beauty and the Details. “So, my number one piece of advice to make sure they have the legal stuff in order, such as they have all the necessary materials for applying for marriage license in the city/state they wish to marry. Otherwise it can be a major damper to their plans.”
2. Talking to a planner. Even though you are eloping and not throwing a traditional reception, hiring a local wedding planner is still strongly recommended, says Miranda Tassi, Chancey Charm Charlotte Wedding Planner & Coordinator. “Especially for coordinating your marriage license and insuring all of your details are good to go. “They also will know the area well and have great options for photo opps!”
3. Creating a vision. Although it’s an elopement, it’s also still a wedding, so you should still think about those key details that will make your day special and reflect your personalities, says Jyl Deering, Chancey Charm Boston Wedding Planner & Coordinator. Do you want a particular color scheme with flowers? A small wedding cake? A first dance? Yes, you can have those things even if you elope!
4. Hiring a photographer. Even if the photographer is the only other person at your ceremony, you’ll definitely want nice pictures of your wedding to remember the special event and share with loved ones, says Lauren Groeper, Chancey Charm Denver Wedding Planner & Coordinator.
5. Plan your transportation. Figuring out how you’re getting where you need to go is often left until the last minute or forgotten altogether–especially if you’re traveling out of the country, make sure you confirm what transportation you will use to get and from the site of your ceremony, says Groeper.
6. Preparing for everyone’s reactions. Remember to prepare yourself for the reactions of your close friends and family, says Tassi. They may be disappointed they were not able to be a part of your big day. “At a minimum, I would recommend sharing the news with at least your parents prior to eloping. Whatever you do, avoid sharing the news with friends and family via social media–a cute marriage announcement in the mail would go a long way!”
For more wedding advice, check out 30 things you must do 30 days before your wedding and how to announce your engagement.
