More and more couples are swapping traditional celebrations for something a little smaller, with micro weddings and elopements on the rise throughout the UK and beyond. Here at Brickhouse Vineyard, we are renowned for our intimate elopement wedding packages and pride ourselves in offering the flexibility for couples to get wed in the way they really want to – whether that’s as just two or with a larger guest list.
Our Team B are often asked, ‘Why do people elope?’ and our answer really could be endless! If you’re umm-ing and ahh-ing about whether an elopement wedding is for you, we thought we’d answer some of the most common questions surrounding this ultra-romantic option! Without further ado, let’s get started…
Why do people elope?
There are a huge number of reasons why a couple may choose to elope. For example, couples may want to simply focus on one another, without the worry of the extensive guest list and the planning elements that come with a wedding. Lots of people want to avoid being the centre of attention – whether that’s walking down the aisle in front of everyone or hosting the speeches in front of a crowd.
Budget can also play a huge factor, with an elopement wedding offering a more ‘purse-friendly’ option for couples to celebrate their love for one another. However, some couples utilise their budget in different ways, spending more on their food experience or their honeymoon, where they would have delegated it elsewhere with a larger celebration.
Planning a wedding with a hefty guest list also takes time – something which a lot of people don’t have or would rather avoid using. On the other hand, often family politics has an influence on a couple’s decision to elope, offering a stress-free solution and avoiding any family dramas. (Here’s how to make the official announcement to those close to you). Lots of people choose to elope, before hosting a huge party with their friends and family at a later date.
Is eloping a legal marriage?
The same rules of a traditional wedding apply to an elopement wedding. Eloping is just as legal as a celebration with a longer guest list – you’ll just need your standard marriage license, age consent laws and any other marriage requirements if you’re marrying abroad. If you want a humanist or celebrant led ceremony, you’ll need to legally marry at the registry office beforehand. Here at Brickhouse Vineyard, our team members have often acted as witnesses for couples who aren’t having any guests, and we adore being a part of your ceremony.
Is eloping romantic?
What could be more romantic than running away together as just the two of you to get married? An elopement wedding is truly special, offering a personal and intimate option to get wed.
Is eloping selfish?
Eloping does not mean you are being selfish, it simply means you are hosting a wedding that feels right for you, your needs and what you want from your day. Your wedding should be all about you and making sure you are both happy – not about making sure other people are happy! This is your once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to marry the love of your life, so you should be spending it the way you want to. Your friends and family will all support you – your feelings are their priority!
If you’re worried about disappointing your nearest and dearest, make sure you let them know beforehand and explain why you are eloping. You could even host a relaxed gathering afterwards to celebrate with everyone!
What are the benefits of eloping?
An elopement offers you total freedom and flexibility over your wedding day and who you invite. From two guests to ten, it’s perfect for couples who don’t love the limelight and want a ceremony that is truly personal. Other benefits include the fact that there is less planning and coordinating, often less stress and they are usually more affordable.
Because of the smaller guest list, you can also have the choice of unusual locations, as you won’t be limited to guest capacity. Plus, you can spend longer with your photographer having couple portraits taken. Ultimately, eloping offers an intimate and unforgettable experience for couples who seek authenticity.
What’s the difference between eloping and getting married?
Traditionally, eloping was once recognised as running away in secret in order to get married. Nowadays, there are many more variations to the definition, with couples legally getting wed without inviting any friends or family.
The biggest difference between an elopement and a wedding is the duration of the celebration and the guest list – a traditional wedding can have anything from 25 to 250 guests! With a guest list comes structure, a timeline and more often than not, formalities and longer planning process. A wedding generally has a ceremony, wedding breakfast, reception and dancing. While people who elope might have less structure, less stress and the same amount of the celebration and fun!
If you want to find out more, head to our blog What Happens on the Day You Elope and What Happens After You Elope.
How much should I budget for an elopement?
This is totally dependent on where you choose to elope! We are thrilled to offer a selection of elopement wedding packages at Brickhouse Vineyard – have a peek here and you’ll get a guide on how much an elopement costs for venue hire.
What do you need for an elopement wedding?
There are still a number of elements of a traditional wedding that you’ll need for an elopement, but we suggest you head over to our Ultimate Elopement Wedding Checklist if you want to find out more!
If the thought of an elopement wedding is tempting, book in a private viewing of Brickhouse Vineyard or drop us a message to find out more about our elopement packages and how we can host your perfect day. But in the meantime, swing by Instagram to keep with our latest wedding adventures!
Images by Tara Statton