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Eloping vs Wedding: How to Choose What’s Right for You 

Eloping vs Wedding? We’re breaking both down into pros and cons to help you decide which is right for you! 

Are you trying to make a decision between a traditional, larger wedding and eloping? It’s a choice many couples face, and it’s crucial to make an informed decision. This comprehensive guide will explore every facet of both options, helping you decide which path aligns best with your dream day.

Eloping = Intimate Weddings

Because not everyone wants to have a huge wedding—and that’s okay. 

Eloping has become more popular than ever, and with the average cost of all things in the wedding industry at the moment, more and more couples are choosing smaller intimate ceremonies over large weddings. Private wedding, adventure wedding in the Rockies, destination wedding, the options are endless. 

What is Eloping?

eloping vs wedding

Eloping has evolved significantly over the years. It’s no longer just a secretive affair but a meaningful, intimate alternative to a traditional wedding. It typically involves just the couple, an officiant, and maybe a few close companions or a photographer. It’s also often associate with a micro wedding, which is usually categorized as a wedding of less than 20 people. 

Pros of Eloping

benefits of eloping vs wedding

Intimate Ceremony

Eloping allows you to focus on the essence of your relationship, without the distractions of a larger event, and spend more quality time with your new spouse instead of getting swept up into the chaos that comes with a larger wedding. 

Unconventional Wedding Venues

The flexibility to choose non-traditional venues like a secluded beach, a historic library, or even under the Northern Lights.

Personalized Vows

In the privacy of an elopement, couples can feel more comfortable sharing deeply personal vows.

Cost-Effective

Generally, eloping is more budget-friendly, saving you from the high expenses of a traditional wedding. Plus, you’ll more than likely be able to get a better rate from vendors (plus, many vendors have elopement packages for pricing transparency) such as you elopement photographer, wedding planner, food and drink vendors, and location than you would if you were planning an average wedding

Freedom and Flexibility

Eloping allows for more flexibility in choosing your location, date, and style without the constraints of a larger event.

Less Stress

With a smaller guest count and logistics, eloping can be a more relaxed, stress-free experience. No seating charts!

Virtual Inclusion

Live-stream your elopement to involve those who can’t be there physically.

Post-Elopement Party

Host a casual get-together after your elopement to celebrate with friends and family.

Environmental Impact

Smaller celebrations often have a smaller environmental footprint.

Unique Themes and Settings

Adventure Elopements

Imagine saying your vows on a mountaintop, under a waterfall, or in a hot air balloon.

Destination Elopements

Choose a location that holds special meaning, or one you’ve always dreamed of visiting.

Cons of Eloping

elope vs wedding

Limited Guest List

A significant downside is that not all your loved ones can witness your special day.

Potential for Regret

Some couples may later regret not having a larger celebration or missing certain traditions.

Family Expectations

Eloping can sometimes lead to hurt feelings or disappointment from family members who wish to be involved.

Lack of Family Involvement

Missing the chance to create memories with all of your favorite people who might have wanted to celebrate with you.

Limited Witness to Your Commitment

Fewer people to witness your vows, which can be significant for some couples.

Family Drama

No matter how hard you try, some family members might misinterpret your elopement as secretive or exclusionary. 

Limited Scope for Certain Traditions

Some cultural or religious traditions might be challenging to incorporate in an elopement setting.

Traditional Wedding: A Celebratory Gathering

elopement vs wedding

What is a Traditional Wedding? A traditional wedding is a ceremonial event that includes a variety of customs and rituals, typically involving a larger gathering of family and friends. But just because a wedding is considered “traditional” doesn’t mean it can’t still be an intimate wedding. 

Pros of a Traditional Wedding

eloping vs small wedding

Share the Joy

A wedding allows you to share your happiness and love with a larger circle of loved ones.

Center of Attention

This could be a good thing, or a bad thing—it all depends on your personality. 

Customization

From venue to decor, traditional weddings offer endless possibilities to personalize your day.

Ritual and Ceremony

Embrace the full array of wedding rituals and customs, making your day memorable and significant.

Family Involvement

A wedding is often a family affair, providing an opportunity for familial bonding and celebration.

Cons of a Traditional Wedding

pros and cons of wedding vs eloping

Cost

Traditional weddings can be significantly more expensive, depending on the scale and style of the event.

Pressure to Conform

Traditional weddings can sometimes come with expectations to adhere to certain customs or styles, which might not align with your personal preference.

Potential for Overspending

With the various elements involved in a traditional wedding, there’s a risk of overspending or going over budget.

Environmental Impact

Larger weddings typically have a greater environmental footprint, considering aspects like travel for guests, catering waste, and decorations.

Planning Stress

Organizing a wedding can be an overwhelming and time-consuming task, often leading to stress.

Potential for Less Intimacy

With a larger guest list, it might be challenging to have personal moments during your celebration.

Making Your Decision

wedding vs elopement

Consider Your Personalities and Preferences

Reflect on your personalities. Are you private people who value intimate moments, or do you thrive in larger social settings?

Budget Considerations

Discuss your financial comfort zone. A realistic budget will guide you in deciding between a lavish wedding or a simpler, more intimate elopement.

Reflect on Your Values and Priorities

What matters most to you in your union? Is it the vows you exchange, the people who witness it, the setting, or the festivities that follow?

Communication is Key

Have open discussions with your partner to ensure you’re both aligned with your vision for your special day.

Involving Loved Ones

Consider how to involve your family and friends, whether in the planning process or in the celebration itself.

Long-Term Impact

Think about how your choice might affect you and your relationship in the long run. How will you look back on this day in the years to come?

No matter which type of wedding celebration you choose, whether it’s an intimate elopement or a grand traditional wedding, the most important thing is that your choice reflects your love and commitment to each other. There’s no universal right or wrong way to celebrate your wedding day—it will be one of the most memorable experiences of your life either way. Embrace what feels true to your relationship, and your day will undoubtedly be perfect.

Still on the fence? Check out 7 Ways to Know if Eloping is For You.