top of page

What is an Elopement?

Writer: Claire AustinClaire Austin

When you imagine your dream wedding, what comes to mind? For some, it’s a grand ballroom filled with hundreds of guests, an elaborate dinner, and dancing until dawn. But for others, it’s something quieter, more intimate, and deeply personal. If the latter speaks to you, it might be time to consider an elopement.

Eloping has come a long way from its reputation as a last-minute or secretive choice. Today, it’s about freedom—freedom to focus on what truly matters to you as a couple, freedom to break away from traditions that don’t resonate, and freedom to craft a day that’s authentic to your love story.


My name is Claire Austin and I am an independent, inclusive wedding celebrant from Devon and I would love to create a completely personal and beautiful wedding script just for you.


A couple having an elopement wedding with a wedding celebrant

What Is an Elopement?


Modern elopements aren’t just a quick trip to the registry office (though that’s a perfectly beautiful option too!). They’re intentional, meaningful, and often take place in a location that holds special significance. Whether it’s just the two of you or a small gathering of your closest loved ones, eloping strips away the pressure and lets you focus on the heart of the celebration—your love.


Why Couples Are Choosing to Elope


  1. Intimacy and Connection With an elopement, you’re free to spend your day focusing on each other without the distractions of a large wedding. It’s a chance to exchange vows that come straight from the heart in an environment that feels sacred to you.

  2. Freedom of Location Dreaming of saying "I do" at the edge of a cliff, deep in a forest, or in the middle of a wine vineyard? Elopements give you the freedom to choose virtually any setting for your special day. You can let your love for adventure guide you to places that are as stunning as they are meaningful.

  3. Authenticity Eloping allows you to step away from traditions that don’t feel like “you.” Instead, you can create a day that aligns with your values and relationship. Want to read letters to each other on top of a hill at sunrise? Done. How about a picnic celebration on the beach after your vows? Gorgeous!

  4. Less Stress Big weddings often come with big expectations—and big stress. From coordinating vendors to managing guest lists, it’s easy to lose sight of the meaning behind it all. Eloping allows you to skip the stress and focus on what really matters.

  5. Budget-Friendly Options While some elopements can be luxurious, they’re often more cost-effective than traditional weddings. By scaling down, you can allocate your budget toward what truly matters to you, whether it’s an unforgettable location, a beautiful photographer, or a celebrant who will create a ceremony tailored to your love story.


How to Plan Your Elopement


  1. Choose Your Location Think about what kind of setting feels most meaningful to you—nature, urban landscapes, or somewhere you’ve always dreamed of exploring together.

  2. Book me as Your Celebrant I can help you create a deeply personal and unique ceremony. I'll work with you to craft a moment that reflects your love story, values, and vision for the day.

  3. Hire a Photographer or Videographer Even though it’s a small ceremony, capturing these moments is just as important. A skilled photographer or videographer will document the magic of your day so you can relive it forever.

  4. Make It Your Own Incorporate details that feel special to you. Whether it’s writing your own vows, including a cultural tradition, or planning an activity you love (like hiking, stargazing, or a cosy dinner), make your elopement reflect your personality as a couple.


Eloping Doesn’t Mean Missing Out


One of the biggest misconceptions about eloping is that it’s less special than a traditional wedding. In reality, elopements are incredibly rich in meaning. By choosing to elope, you’re giving yourselves permission to celebrate your love in a way that feels right for you. An elopement can be every bit as romantic, meaningful, and unforgettable as a larger celebration—if not more so.


Final Thoughts


Your wedding day should reflect your love and your values. If the idea of a big, traditional wedding doesn’t resonate with you, an elopement might be the perfect way to celebrate your commitment to each other. Intimate, authentic, and completely customisable, an elopement is about prioritising your connection and focusing on what matters most.


Ready to plan your dream elopement? Send me a message and let's get chatting!


Love Claire xXx

 
 
 

Kommentare


bottom of page