Have you been proposed to but are still unsure whether an elopement wedding is the right choice? If you’ve made it this far, the answer is probably YES. But it’s always good to weigh the pros and cons of planning an elopement.
Traveling and getting married at the same time is an incredible experience, but we know that not all couples resonate with this idea. Some dream of an intimate moment just for the two of them, while others love the idea of planning a big wedding with friends and family.
In this article, I will present some pros and cons to consider before deciding on an Elopement Wedding. I sincerely hope this list helps make your day perfect!
PRO: A DAY COMPLETELY ABOUT YOU TWO
Couples who choose to travel and have an elopement wedding prioritize experiences over material things. By choosing an intimate wedding for two, you can make this day 100% about you, without any distractions.
CON: UNEXPECTED THINGS MAY HAPPEN
Of course, for couples who choose a private venue like a palace, unexpected events are less likely. However, if you dream of getting married outdoors with a breathtaking view or in a public place, there’s always a chance that last-minute changes may be necessary. Flexibility is key!
Example: A couple once chose Cabo da Roca as their elopement location, but on the day of the wedding, the wind was too strong, and they didn’t want to change locations. The solution? The ceremony took place the next day, and it was amazing.
PRO: NO MAJOR PLANNING REQUIRED
This doesn’t mean that an elopement requires no planning—it does! But it is certainly a much more enjoyable process, especially if you can’t see yourself organizing a large wedding and value your time as your most precious asset.
CON: SOME MAY NOT UNDERSTAND AND SAY IT’S NOT A REAL WEDDING
In many countries, elopements are a natural choice, but in Brazil and some other places, they are not as well understood. Some family members and friends may question whether eloping instead of having a traditional wedding with guests is a real wedding. Listen to your heart and avoid negative opinions.
PRO: ELOPEMENT + HONEYMOON
One of the best parts of choosing an elopement is extending the trip into your honeymoon. If you’re getting married in a new country, take a few extra days to explore, relax, and celebrate your newlywed life.
CON: NOT HAVING CERTAIN IMPORTANT PEOPLE PRESENT
That’s why I always say: elopements aren’t for everyone, especially if you’re very social or have a large, close-knit family. However, you can still invite a few loved ones to share the moment with you—having guests doesn’t mean it’s not an elopement.
PRO: ELOPEMENTS ARE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY
Have you ever thought about how much waste is produced at a big wedding? So many things are discarded after just a few hours of celebration. With an elopement, you have the freedom to get married in a much more sustainable way.
CON: YOUR DRESS MIGHT GET DIRTY, DEPENDING ON THE LOCATION
I’m not sure if this is really a bad thing. If you planned an adventurous elopement with a stunning landscape, you probably won’t mind getting your dress a little dirty. And if you prefer a more elegant setting, there are plenty of beautiful locations that won’t compromise your attire.
PRO: YOU DON’T HAVE TO SPEND YOUR ENTIRE SAVINGS
Of course, there are still expenses involved in an elopement, but they are minimal compared to a traditional wedding.
When making your decision, think about all the amazing experiences you can have during your trip with the money you save!
Regardless of the pros and cons of having an elopement, don’t rule out the possibility. Even if you’ve already had a traditional wedding, you can still experience an intimate ceremony by choosing an elopement for your vow renewal.
“The measure of love is to love without measure.” – Saint Augustine