Nowadays we are seeing smaller and smaller weddings. Couples are preferring to have just their close friends and family at the wedding instead of inviting every second cousin. Let’s be honest, planning a wedding is HARD and takes A LOT of time. Eloping is a great way to skip all the stress that comes with planning a wedding and instead focus on creating intentional moments for you and your love.

If you have been thinking about eloping, here are some reasons why you should elope!

If you love an intimate gathering… you should elope! When you elope, the day is completely focused on the two of you. Majority of elopement couples are looking to get rid of the pressure they felt about having a traditional wedding and instead they create an experience that is only about their love and commitment. Gone is worrying about timelines, to-do lists, and being hosts, bring on the adventure, laughter, and privacy of elopement!

If you prefer a no fuss day… you should elope! Yes, of course planning a full wedding can be an amazing experience, especially with the help of a planner, but for some couples, they prefer little to no planning involved and that is totally fine! The list starts to build up: Where are you going to get married? Who is going to be invited? What are we going to serve? Should we have a band or a DJ? The list can feel like it will never end! When you choose elopement, you can say goodbye to the stresses of traditional wedding planning.

If you want to get married, but do not want to break the bank… you should elope! Most couples who elope say that they want to save money. The cost of hosting a traditional wedding can typically be tens of thousands of dollars. Eloping is usually much less than that! Moreover, you now do not have to invite people who you feel obligated to. This is another headache avoided since now that you are inviting way less people than you typically would, you now have more money in your pocket which you could save towards an extra long honeymoon or a house deposit!

Okay, so you have decided you are going to elope, but where to get started? Here are some tips!

Timing – If there is a specific time you are looking to get married at (sunrise/sunset) remember that to get the best views of your location, you may have to get up early or you may be hiking back down after dark. Timing everything out correctly is incredibly important to ensure you get the best light, so your photos look amazing. Some locations are much easier than others!

Budget – As discussed, eloping can cut your budget down quite significantly, but it is also easy to start racking up the bill. You may need to include travel expenses, permits, photographer, officiant, planner, rings, attire, florals, etc. Make sure to figure out your budget first so that you are not shocked once you receive the bill!

Guests – If you do decide to have guests at your elopement, I recommend only inviting your closest friends and family. Think of the people who have been there to support your relationship. Don’t ever feel pressured to have all of your family members there, only include the ones that you cannot imagine not being there. Remember, you can always live stream your elopement as well so that other family and friends can watch and celebrate!

Looking to elope, but not sure where to start? Luckily, CK & Co. Events is offering Pop Up Elopement dates! Your package includes location, planner, photographer, officiant, hair & makeup, bouquet & boutonniere (or 2 of the same), signage, and snacks and drinks during your time. We are offering two dates: June 27th or August 22nd. Limited spots available. Reach out today to secure your spot! ckandcoevents@gmail.com