Planning a wedding can be so stressful. Planning a seating arrangement, thinking about the venue, music, decorations, wedding cake and so many other details can drive any bride crazy. On top of that, some guests don’t RSVP on time, others want to bring a plus one you have never met in your life, there is always a problem with the baker or the florist, and you have no idea what to write in your vows. All this commotion is the reason why a lot of couples just decide to elope and get married without a long list of guests. Although eloping seems like the easiest thing in the world, there is still some planning involved. Do not worry, to make sure you don’t forget something, we have prepared this amazing elopement checklist.
Location
- Choose a place that holds a special place in your hearts. Maybe you could get married in the exact spot where your partner proposed to you, or where you went on your first vacation as a couple. Do you have a place you both wanted to visit for so long? Then why not get married there?
- Pay attention to the weather. There will be no fancy ballrooms or elegant restaurants. You will be outside so it is important that you choose a date on which you will feel comfortable outside. For example, if you want to say your vows in the mountains, but you hate the cold, get hitched in the summer. In case you wish to get married in the middle of the desert but are afraid that excessive sweating will ruin your makeup, your dress, and your pictures, opt for a fall wedding. When you have established where you want to get married, do your research on the climate in that area and see when it’s the best time to say ‘I do’.
- Avoid potential crowds. Apart from paying attention to the climate, you should also check things like local holidays. You don’t want to get married in the middle of a small town fiesta, where it is basically impossible to find accommodation, food, and other essentials. In case you have chosen a place that is often crowded with tourists, look into a date in the shoulder season. This way you will more likely secure a location for your wedding and be able to take tourist-free photos.
The Guest List
- Agree on the guest list. Since you have decided to elope, chances are that you won’t be inviting many guests, if any. However, even if they do not want a big wedding, some couples still want their nearest and dearest with them on their big day. If you are afraid that this way you will ruin the whole intimate elopement feel, just give each guest a role. Maybe your best friend could officiate the wedding, your sister can be in charge of hair and makeup and your parents could be the coordinators for the day.
Luxury Wedding Transport
- When it comes to luxury wedding transport, couples in New Jersey have an array of options to choose from. From elegant limousines to vintage Rolls Royce, the choices are endless. Opting for exquisite wedding transportation in NJ not only adds a touch of glamour to the occasion but also ensures a smooth and memorable journey for the bride, groom, and their entourage.
- These opulent vehicles are meticulously maintained, boasting plush interiors and top-notch amenities. Whether it’s a classic car or a sleek modern limo, the right transport can set the perfect tone for the day, leaving a lasting impression on all who attend. With professional chauffeurs at the helm, couples can relax and enjoy the ride, knowing they’re in capable hands.
Travel
- Take care of transportation. When you have decided on the location, you will need to see whether it is possible to drive there, or you will need to travel by plane. If you are going someplace overseas, it is best to book the plane tickets at least four months in advance so you could get the best possible deal.
- Book Lodging. Now that you know how you will get to your location, you need to find a place where you will stay during those few days. You can book a hotel or Airbnb and turn your special day into a romantic getaway.
Wardrobe
- Say yes to the dress. If you were planning a big wedding you would have to spend so much money on various vendors and details, you won’t be able to afford that breathtaking dress you’ve been swooning over. However, since you will save money on your elopement, you can splurge on the most important dress in your life.
- Coordinate your groom’s outfit. Make sure you and your partner are on the same page so your outfits are coordinated.
- Buy comfy wedding shoes. Eloping usually means that you won’t get married in a restaurant, but in mountains or at a beach. Therefore, instead of high heels, look for a comfortable pair of boots, sneakers, or sandals for your special day.
- Select your hairstyle and makeup look. Just like you can find a helpful article on ring shopping, you can find plenty of articles on wedding hair and makeup. Look for inspiration online and bring pictures to your stylist so they know exactly what you are expecting.
Vendors
- Hire a wedding photographer who specializes in elopements. You will surely want pictures from your wedding day which you can look at when you are old and grey with a smile on your face. When looking for a wedding photographer, check websites, Instagram pages, look at galleries, watch their videos and see which one matches your vision and has experience shooting elopements. They will be able to offer some planning tips, they will know what to expect and how to get those amazing shots you want.
- Hire a wedding planner. In case you are planning to get married in a foreign country you’ve never visited before, it might be a good idea to hire a planner. It is hard to put together all those pieces of the puzzle when you are completely unfamiliar with the area.
- Look into other vendors you might want. Just because you are not having a big wedding doesn’t mean you are not allowed to enjoy the gorgeous details of a large wedding. Who says you cannot hire a florist, a baker, or even a musician who will play at the ceremony?
Ceremony
- Decide who will officiate. There are several options to choose from. You can hire an officiant, ask someone you love to officiate the wedding, or even act as your own officiant (this is possible in some parts).
- Write your vows. Since you are opting for such an intimate ceremony, it is recommended to write your own vows so everything stays as personalized as possible.
- Buy wedding rings. Believe it or not, with so many other things to do, some couples forget to buy their rings.
We hope this checklist will help you plan the wedding of your dreams.
