Year 2020 is going to go down the history books, for sure! The year has been difficult for everyone in many different ways, and for couples planning their wedding, it has been nothing less than a roller-coaster of emotions. With the pressure of cancellation, safety, replanning, there’s no better time for you to say, “do heck with traditions, let’s have an elopement wedding”.
Elopements are a great way to value your intimate day and have a wedding that’s about you – and only you. The candid emotions, incredible adventure, without the chaos and politics of wedding planning sounds like an amazing course of action. But if you need more convincing, here are my top 5 reasons why you should elope!
#1 A “Just Us” Experience
An elopement is a win-win. You get to spend the engagement time period without any wedding planning stress, and the wedding day is also focused on YOU. Think hiking to a mountain top for a blissful ceremony or saying your vows on a beach with waves rolling on the back. No pressure, no distractions, no time-boundations – just you & your partner together on a romantic adventure.
#2 Epic Wedding Photos
Let’s do the math. You invite 100 people to the wedding and spend 3 minutes with each one of them. That’s around 5 hours of your special day. Minus the toasts, meals, dancing, etc. There are only so many couple and bridal portraits you can get in the remaining time. Elopement gives you the opportunity to capture heartfelt intimate moments without any intrusions. Moreover, you’ll be in a scenic location, dressed your best and savouring the magic that is your wedding day. Doesn’t it sound like an awesome photoshoot idea? It does to me!
#3 Let Your Emotions Loose *Freely*
With 100+ people staring, it’s hard to show your emotions without feeling awkward. At an elopement, you can cry, stare in wonder at your partner’s first look without any time limit. You can pour your heart out during the vows. And the best part? You can eat as much wedding cake as you want. Tempting, isn’t it?
#4 There’s Nothing More Simple
My favourite part of an elopement is just how wonderfully simple the experience is! A quick dress shopping trip, a little envisage of the location and some logistics prep is all it takes. Couples are often surprised at the end of planning saying “what? Is that all?!” Of course, you can add some extra details; the sky’s the limit in an intimate wedding.
#5 It’s Environment-Friendly
An average of 150 guests wedding leaves 400 to 600 pounds of waste behind. Let that sink in for a moment. Yikes! And that’s only average. Those lavish weddings have notorious aftermath. This includes food, napkins, trash, plastic party favours…the list goes on. Go green with an elopement wedding. I’m seeing more couples opting to get married outside, following Leave No Trace philosophy, and still enjoying an unforgettable experience.
Whilst we’re on the topic of how amazing elopements are, here’s a list of some spectacular locations for eloping in The Epic Victorian High Country!
- Mount Buffalo
- Alpine National Park
- Mount Pilot
- Mt Stirling, Craigs Hut
- Beechworth Historical Park
- Mount Feathertop
- King Valley Wine Region
- Mount Samaria State Park
- Bright Mountain Top
- Cactus Country, Strathmerton
These are just a few locations for eloping in Victoria, but I’m sure you can find other breathtaking ones that align with your personal preferences.
Unless you’re someone who loves their traditions to the tee and just can’t let go of a big wedding, there’s no reason why elopement couldn’t be a great alternative for you. I’ve first-hand experience how calm, chill and relaxed couples feel at an elopement wedding. Plus, I’ve had the honour to document their memories for them. If an elopement is on your mind too, I’d be happy to become a part of your adventure and portray it beautifully.
So, when do you want to elope?
