If you have decided to elope, this is amazing news.
*throws confetti*
*pops champagne*
As someone with years of elopement experience, and as someone who eloped myself, I can firmly say that these are 3 Do’s and 3 Don’ts that I have when it comes to elopement planning.
After eloping myself, and walking many couples through their elopements, I am proud of my status as an elopement planning expert and guide, someone who is passionate about cultivating an experience that will change the way you think about weddings and photography.
THE DON’TS OF ELOPING
#1 – DON’T FEEL GUILTY
One thing I am passionate about is helping couples NOT to feel guilty about eloping. In a recent blog post, we talked about 3 Major Elopement Myths, one being that eloping is selfish. The truth is that one of the hardest things about eloping is people misunderstanding your choice or judging you, labeling you as selfish.
If anything, it is selfish of someone to ask you to have a wedding just because a) they believe that’s what you should do and b) they want to attend.
Those who are truly for you will understand your choice and not make you feel/believe that you are being selfish by putting your and your partner’s interests and needs above others.
If anything, it is an act of self-love.
#2 – DON’T DOWNPLAY YOUR DAY
One of the major misconceptions about elopements is that they are not as meaningful or special as “real” weddings.
The truth is elopements have the capacity to be something truly meaningful and special.
It allows you to slow down, focus on what’s important, bring clarity to your day, and not do anything except what you want to do.
You don’t have to rush through a day, making appearances and impressing family members, and instead can move at your own pace, having a more intentional, genuine, awe-inspiring day.
#3 – DON’T FORGET TO HIRE AN ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER WITH PLANNING EXPERIENCE
The truth is that this might be one of the most important things you can do when it comes to your elopement. A true elopement photographer will not only help with the day, but with the planning (and everything else in between) to ensure your day goes exactly as you dream.
(for more don’ts of elopements, check out this blog post that goes over 4 Common Elopement Mistakes)
THE DO’S
#1 – HAVE A POST-ELOPEMENT PARTY
After being married for almost 2 years, my partner Tom and I finally got to celebrate with our family in Canada. My parents threw us the most fun backyard reception party and it made me really thankful for this life and the people that I get to share it with.
An elopement party is exactly as it sounds – a party you throw for yourself, your friends, and your family after you get married. It can be an opportunity for you to tell your story, show pictures (hopefully taken by yours truly) and videos from the day, and include people in this special moment of your life.
It can be as extravagant or as simple as suits your fancy, and can really be whenever and wherever you want.
For ideas on the type of party you may like, check out this blog post, and for tips on planning a post-elopement party, check out this blog post.
#2 – CONSIDER HAVING AN ADVENTURE ELOPEMENT
I love a good adventure. It is true. And there is something about the magic of elopements that allow you to plan an adventure you and your partner will never forget. It is about saying no to the ordinary and encouraging the extraordinary.
The most exciting thing about elopement planning is that the sky’s the limit when it comes to what you can do, where you can do it, and how.
Want to elope next to the ocean? Try barefoot or swimming afterward.
Want to elope in the forest? Plan a hike to your elopement destination.
Want to elope where the sky is the actual limit? Book a helicopter ride.
Eloping allows you to use your wildest imagination to plan the most adventure-packed, simple, and breathtaking day.
Pro tip: eloping saves a lot of costs, so if you want to splurge on the adventure of a lifetime, you better believe I am in full support.
And hey, I would be absolutely thrilled to join you on your adventure and document the whole occasion!
Need some inspiration? Check out this blog post.
#3 – REMEMBER TO HAVE FUN!
The whole concept of eloping is saying no to the normal way of doing things and going with the adventurous excitement of creating and telling your own story.
Wedding planning might be stressful, but elopement planning can be thrilling and exciting if you allow it to be. It is supposed to be thrilling, hopeful, authentic, genuine, and not to mention, FUN!
So, remember to have some fun on the day. When all else fails, you and your partner remain. Make the day about that unshakeable commitment you have to one another, and have some fun while you’re at it.
If you have any questions or you’re ready to start your elopement journey, get in touch! I’d love to help you make your dream day a reality.
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