When it comes to saying “I do,” couples are faced with a multitude of choices for their special day. Two increasingly popular options that often capture the essence of love in unique ways are elopements and intimate weddings. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the distinctions between the two, helping you decide which celebration aligns best with your vision of the perfect day.

Elopement Unveiled:

Elopements have shed their once-secretive nature and transformed into intentional, intimate ceremonies. The primary characteristic of an elopement is its simplicity and privacy. These ceremonies typically involve just the couple, an officiant, and perhaps a handful of close witnesses. Elopements are perfect for those seeking a more spontaneous and adventurous experience, often taking place in scenic locations like mountaintops, beaches, or city rooftops.

Why Choose an Elopement?

1. Intimacy: Elopements allow couples to share their vows in a truly private and intimate setting.
2. Adventure: Escape the traditional wedding setting and choose a location that holds personal significance or offers breathtaking views.
3. Flexibility: Elopements provide flexibility in terms of date, time, and location, making it easier to plan according to your preferences.

Intimate Weddings Explored:

On the other hand, intimate weddings are a middle ground between elopements and grand celebrations. These weddings typically involve a small guest list, focusing on quality over quantity. Intimate weddings allow couples to create a personal and meaningful atmosphere while still sharing their joy with close friends and family.

Why Choose an Intimate Wedding?

1. Close Connections: Celebrate with those who matter most, fostering a deeper connection with each guest.
2. Personalization: With a smaller guest list, couples can infuse more personal touches into the ceremony and reception.
3. Memorable Moments: Create lasting memories with the people who have played significant roles in your journey as a couple.

Choosing What’s Right for You:

Ultimately, the decision between an elopement and an intimate wedding boils down to your personal preferences, values, and vision for your big day. Consider what matters most to you and your partner. Do you dream of a secluded mountaintop exchange of vows, or do you envision a small, heartfelt gathering surrounded by loved ones?

• Budget may play a role in your decision. Couples typically spend between $5,000-$15,000 on an elopement compared to the national average of $30,000 on a traditional wedding. A majority of this budget is allocated to a photographer and attire.
• Guest Preferences may also be a factor. Will you invite just your immediate family? Or will you extend the invitation to your close friends as well? Often couples will enjoy an intimate meal after their elopement and number of guests can influence weather you can make a reservation for 10 at a local restaurant or if you need to secure a larger space for a more intimate celebration.
• Logistics will also heavily influence your decision. Will you elope at your local courthouse and enjoy a nice meal after? Or will you elope in the mountains?

Photography’s Role:

Regardless of your choice, having a skilled photographer is essential to capture the essence of your celebration. Whether it’s freezing the intimate moments shared between just the two of you during an elopement or capturing the heartfelt interactions in a small wedding, a photographer plays a pivotal role in preserving these memories for a lifetime.

At a recent September elopement in Des Moines, I joined Luke and Elyse for an intimate courthouse ceremony followed by an hour of photos at some special locations. They joined their family after for dinner at Mullberry Street Tavern. It was a beautiful and simple afternoon, perfect for the Millers!

Whether you opt for the intimacy of an elopement or the warmth of an intimate wedding, both choices offer unique opportunities to celebrate your love in a way that feels authentic to you. Take the time to discuss your preferences with your partner and visualize the kind of celebration that will set the perfect tone for the next chapter of your love story.