A big wedding simply isn’t for everyone. If you recently got engaged and aren’t jazzed by the idea of a big wedding, an elopement may be exactly what you’re looking for. These small, meaningful ceremonies have risen in popularity over the past few years due to their adventurous yet simple nature. 

Below, we’ll go over what an elopement is and how to determine whether it’s a good fit for you and your fiance. 

What is an Elopement Exactly?

Elopement traditionally refers to getting married without telling one’s family members and friends beforehand. That being said, today elopement can mean many things, though it generally includes opting for a small, intimate ceremony that highlights the connection between you and your partner. 

Some couples choose to invite a small number of guests to their elopement while others complete the ceremony entirely on their own. The good news is that elopements are incredibly customizable: You and your fiance get to decide what stays and what goes together, undoubtedly making for a special celebration.

7 Signs You Should Elope

Are you considering eloping? Here are a few clear signs that an elopement may be the right choice for you and your partner. 

1. You crave an intimate, authentic experience

Opting for an elopement makes it easy for you to focus on what’s really important: Celebrating the love between you and your significant other! Elopements are naturally intimate experiences that cut out any unnecessary wedding day drama. You and your partner are free to craft an authentic experience that’s entirely your own without pressure from family and friends. 

If you choose to have guests, you’ll have more time to connect and interact with each other on your special day. Choosing to have a small wedding makes it easy for you to truly enjoy the day as it comes. 

2. You want more flexibility 

Large weddings can be great for some people, but many prefer having a more condensed celebration. Whether you don’t like being the center of attention or simply want more quality time with your partner during your special day, elopements are incredibly flexible celebrations. 

Plus, with less people (or just two), the venue options are endless! Want to elope in a national park? Done. At the top of a mountain? Easy! You can also choose to have an all-day adventure or experience and carry your celebration with you. Elopements allow you to build your wedding from the ground up, without the constraints of a large wedding party.

3. You aren’t afraid of the non-traditional

Elopements are perfect for adventurous, open-minded couples who want to showcase their love in a totally redefined way. Non-traditional weddings like elopements make it easy for you to create lasting memories that truly reflect your relationship. These one of a kind ceremonies are solely focused on your love of one another, without the noise of the outside world.

4. You want to save money

One of the biggest benefits of choosing to elope is saving money. Weddings are expensive enough on their own, and usually increase in price based on the size of your wedding party. With elopements, there’s no need to shell out thousands of dollars on a wedding venue, catering, and favors. You’re fully in control of what stays and what goes with your special day. 

By having a small celebration, you can help cut costs and save for your life together. You can also use the extra change to put more into your honeymoon or an anniversary party down the line. Elopements help you put your money where it truly matters by adapting the principle of quality over quantity.

5. You want to tell a story

Elopements are just as beautiful as large weddings but have the added benefit of being incredibly intricate. Having less to manage means that you can really focus on all of the finishing touches that highlight the connection between you and your soon to be spouse. With flexible arrangements, you’ll be able to incorporate anything you want into your special day. The sky’s the limit with these special celebrations.

6. You want your special day to be stress free

Let’s face it– Planning a large gathering of any kind can be stressful, let alone something as special as your wedding day. If you’d rather think out your partner than placecards, an elopement can be a great option. Not to mention, you won’t go into your new life together with debt stemming from a large wedding. A smaller experience requires less planning and coordination, giving you valuable peace of mind. 

Some brides and grooms simply don’t enjoy being in the spotlight in front of their family members and friends, and that’s totally fine too! Your wedding should be a memorable day that celebrates your love, not a stressful one.

7. You can’t wait to start your journey together

Elopements make it easy for you to kickstart your journey together without having to worry about coordinating with anyone else. Sometimes, it’s just more convenient to elope, especially if your family and friends are spread out across the globe. If you’re eager to solidify your bond with one another, these intimate celebrations are a great fit. 

While elopement certainly isn’t for every couple, it can be a great way to have a unique, authentic celebration that truly highlights your connection as partners. These nontraditional wedding ceremonies are perfect for any lovers looking for a meaningful way to kick off their adventure together. Happy eloping!