Love Isn't Cancelled~Embracing the Art of Elopement
Alex Marie Photography @alexmari_
During the COVID-19 crisis, people have been forced to cancel events, plans, trips, and experiences. While couples that are wedding planning are adapting to this new normal, there are things that can not be canceled, celebrating love is one of them.
Couples are handling this unforeseen change of plans in many different ways, one option is pivoting to an elopement. When people first think of eloping, they often picture a young couple whose forbidden love can never be revealed. The truth is, this perception has drastically changed. Even Merriam-Webster is recognizing the shift in the definition of the word: “Elope's meaning is shifting towards "a small destination wedding" whereas it used to mean "to run away and secretly get married." Eloping is not as fringe as it once was, and now might be the best time to give it a go!
The Art of Eloping
We were lucky to have the chance to speak to an expert in the realm of elopement, Kim Olsen, one of the creative geniuses behind the Art of Eloping resource guide website. She has interviewed over 50 couples who have eloped and has built an in-depth understanding of what eloping couples want and how to best support them. The site’s co-founder, Scott Shaw, wrote Let’s Elope, over 20 years ago when he couldn’t find any resources to help him plan his own elopement.
According to Kim, there are many reasons that couples skip the big wedding and opt for an elopement. Whether it was a “breaking point” in the planning of a larger wedding or the simple desire for a truly intimate experience in a meaningful place, with the added complication of COVID-19, this trend is definitely here to stay.
Make it Legal
Your Virtual Wedding is Probably* Not Legal
One key to elopement is understanding the proper way to ensure your marriage is legal. Rules vary from state to state and there are lots of misconceptions as to the number of witnesses and who can legally support your paperwork. You may not be able to just show up at your favorite public space for your vows and photos. Some locations require a permit for photography. Be sure to do your homework and look for the resources to support you in tying the knot both in person and with the marriage license.
Kim has spent years learning the ins and outs of what makes eloping special to couples and not one of them has regretted making the decision. Her guides to specific destinations help couples not only find that unique elopement venue, but also helps the couple navigate the legalities and ins and outs of each community. Thinking virtual wedding? Check out Kim’s Blog Post to better understand the implications!
How to Keep Loved Ones Involved
When couples considering an elopement start to take the next step, a lot of time and energy is spent wondering how others will feel about their decision. There may be some disappointment from family or friends who have always dreamed of a big wedding or feel left out if your elopement takes place at sunrise on a mountainside with just to two of you and your photographer and officiant. Here are five ways to keep the ones you love close and part of your celebration even when they are far away.
Misty Rodda Photography
Choose a ceremony location that allows a small number of guests on-site to join you for the moment and your vows.
Create a detailed plan of what works best for you and your partner and welcome those closest to you to support you for your wedding.
Stream your ceremony through technology so that close friends and family can watch.
These days, technology is our good friend, use it to allow those you love to share the moment you say “I do”!
Add on smaller events to include family and friends as part of your elopement experience.
Share breakfast or brunch with your loved ones before heading off to your elopement or when you return. Plan to raise a glass of Bluemont Vineyard Rosé at home after your ceremony is complete with friends.
Still want an After Party? Create a celebration after your private elopement to create more memories.
Coordinate with your friends and family a way that you can all still celebrate after your ceremony or pick a new date for that big after-party once it is safe.
Write Letters
Having your distant family and friends write a special note for you to open on your elopement day is a great option to allow them to share their happiness and emotions with you. Letters also make a great memory that will last a lifetime.
It’s All in the Details
Just because your wedding day doesn’t include 120 guests and a full reception doesn’t mean you have to skip out on the fun details. Creating touches that are special to you and your partner will make your day memorable and intimate. We’ve brainstormed a list of creative ways to make your elopement unique to you.
Birds of Passage Co.
Wear something special.
It doesn’t have to be a white wedding dress, wear something that makes you feel beautiful and that you will cherish for the years to come. Choose something that reflects your personality and style from Rent the Runway or include a special piece of jewelry from your family for that “something borrowed” element.
Consider Flowers
Having something to hold can help with those last minute nerves as you say your vows. Pick a simple bouquet of wildflowers or choose a stunning arrangement. Again it’s your day and your style that will shine.
Document the day
Don’t forget to schedule a photographer, videographer, or any other special vendors you might need to document your day perfectly. Whether you’re using your iPhone or a professional camera, you’ll want to remember this day forever! Look for photographers who specialize in elopement and have the knack of capturing you and your partner in your unique setting. These skills may be different from the vendor who is an expert in organizing the huge family portrait after at a big wedding. Making sure you capture these memories will also be helpful when you are ready to share them with everyone.
An Endless Pursuit Photography
Stay the night
Have a romantic night where you said “I Do” and wake up to this next phase of your journey with your partner in the place that marks this new beginning. Whether is in the beautiful rolling hills of Virginia wine country at a Stone Cottage , a quiet beach retreat or in the city center with an amazing view, this place can be one you return to for anniversaries to come to reminisce and renew your love.
Have a first look
If you’ve been looking forward to this time with your partner, you can still have it! Make arrangements to get ready in different places, and have a special moment to catch that first glimpse of the love of your life before your ceremony.
Eat something exceptional
Treat yourselves to a small wedding cake, pastry, or another sweet treat. Find something meaningful and special to you and your partner. The great part about eloping is anything goes, from pizza to fine cuisine to-go from a top notch caterer such as Savoir Fare. They have been voted one of the top 3 caterers in Virginia and can make your intimate wedding night dinner memorable.
Sam Stroud Photography
Follow Your Heart
At the end of all of the coordination and decisions, it comes down to doing what is best for you and your partner. Getting married during a global pandemic is stressful, but that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be special. At Bluemont Vineyard, we are here to assist you and help make your wedding day all that you dream. Eloping may have been outrageous back in the good ole days, but today it is a beautiful, simple, way to celebrate your love.
Hope Taylor Photography
Choose Your Dream Elopement Package
One of the most important components of your elopement is going to be choosing a place that you and your partner love. Our vines and rolling hills in Northern Virginia wine country create a perfect backdrop for “I do”. Our team at Bluemont Vineyard takes the stress out of planning an elopement by offering different elopement packages that best suit your visions. Our wonderful wedding team is here to simplify your planning process and create a special day for you and your partner. Each of our elopement packages includes a meeting with our experience manager to ensure every important detail is included in your day. Do you think eloping could be for you? Fill out our inquiry form or contact us directly to get more information and start planning your special day at Bluemont Vineyard.