Elopement Myths: What Does it Really Mean to Elope?

THE COMMON MYTHS AND MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT WHAT IT MEANS TO ELOPE

Cathedral Rock Sedona Elopement

Myth:

ELOPEMENTS ARE RUSHED, SECRETIVE, AND SHAMEFUL.

I don’t think anything could be further from the truth. This may be what eloping used to mean, but not anymore. There is no “cookie cutter” definition of what an elopement is today, but there is one thing that all elopements have in common.

Truth:

ELOPEMENTS ARE INTENTIONAL, INTIMATE, AND MEANINGFUL WEDDING DAY EXPERIENCES CENTERED AROUND AUTHENTICITY BEFORE TRADITIONS.

Eloping is an empowering experience. It’s about having an incredibly authentic & intentional wedding day that is a TRUE reflection of the profound connection you’ve found with your partner. It’s about following your heart first, and traditions last (or not at all). Eloping means getting married the way YOU want to, free from pressure and outside expectations and judgements.

Myth:

People elope because they don’t have enough money for a big wedding

Although it’s undeniable that elopements on average cost much less than having a traditional big wedding, lack of finances is very rarely the main reason a couple chooses to elope.

Truth:

People who elope value experiences over things

Those who elope are not ANY less invested in their wedding day than those who choose to throw huge events. The average cost of a wedding in the U.S. is over $30,000. That’s a new car, a downpayment on a house, or 8-12 incredible vacations with your partner (depending on how you like to travel).

Couples who elope don’t feel that the value of their wedding day can be defined by cost, a huge guest list, or a fancy venue.

Eloping couples know that no matter how much they spend, where they are, or who they’re with, the value of their wedding day is immeasurable & can only be defined by the incredible love they have for each other.

Why blow all that money on a huge event if that’s not truly what you want? If that’s not who you are? Forget what your mom says, your nan says, or what your best friend says. Those people aren’t you. And as close as you may be to your loved ones, their opinions should not replace your own. Especially on your wedding day.

I’m here to tell you that it’s totally OK to not want a big wedding.

It’s actually more than okay. I think choosing to elope and define your own wedding day is absolutely beautiful and incredibly brave. Do what you want and forget the rest.

Because your wedding day should be about you.

Myth:

Elopements are always done alone without any guests

Truth:

ELOPEMENTS CAN BE DONE ALONE, BUT THEY DON’T HAVE TO BE.

Elopements typically have 0-20 guests, and wherever your number falls is solely based on who you and your partner truly want to witness your wedding day.

Myth:

Eloping is for people who are socially awkward and don’t have strong relationships with family & friends

FALSE. This is so utterly false it’s not even funny. Just because you are choosing to have an intimate wedding experience, it does not mean that you are a “loner” or that your relationships are lack-luster in any sense.

Truth:

Couples who elope are intentional about who they invite to experience their wedding day.

This could mean 0 guests, or this could mean anywhere from 1-20 guests. Those who chose to have very few or no guests do not value their friends or family any less, they’ve just decided that having their wedding day be a private moment is more authentic to who they are. Eloping couples often include their loved ones in other ways, or decide to have a larger gathering later on to celebrate with those who were not present on the big day.

Myth:

You have to be an experienced outdoor adventurist to have an incredible elopement

Not at all! Remember, this day is supposed to be authentic to who you are.

Truth:

There are no outdoor experience requirements when it comes to having an adventurous elopement

If you have never hiked before, it’s probably not the best idea to embark on a 10 mile rugged hike for the first time on the day of your elopement. That being said, every elopement experience is unique and specifically designed around you. There are no rules and no boxes to fill. An adventure elopement doesn’t even need to include any sort of hiking at all if you don’t want it to. There are plenty of other ways to visit epic locations to say your vows (like via boat, zip line, or helicopter).

Myth:

Elopements are rushed & ill-planned events

Truth:

Elopements are all-day experiences that are deeply meaningful

Elopements are the exact opposite of rushed and ill-planned. After photographing big weddings for 7 years, I can tell you from experience that it’s the big hectic weddings that often end up feeling rushed and emotionless.

Elopements are intentional, and all events the day of are carefully chosen to reflect and celebrate the love you have in an authentic & unapologetic way.

The truth is…

Eloping can be whatever you want it to be. It can mean whatever you want it to mean.

All I know is when you strip it back

Eloping is about love. And that’s it. 

Learn more elopement FAQ’s HERE

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  1. Julie says:

    You are incorrect that elopements can have guests. If that was the case, then what would be the difference between an elopement and a small, intimate wedding? The moment there are guests invited, it is not an elopement. Some people think elopements need to be secret, but you are correct — that is not the case. An elopement can be announced in advance. Furthermore, a destination wedding is not an elopement. Likewise, one can elope in their own town — eloping does not mean getting married elsewhere than where one lives. So then, a destination elopement would be a guestless event away from the couple’s home. Yes, in this day and age, people can do whatever they want on their wedding day, but they can change the meaning of words…

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