Choosing the way in which you get married often get’s overlooked by couples… 👀

With that “recently engaged” feeling comes the dreaded influx of questions from friends and families already subliminally planning what you “should” or “shouldn’t” do for your wedding. They mean well – but its frustrating when you’ve not considered your options yet. What if you don’t want to be on a venue waiting list for 3 years, or have the stress of planning a big wedding? You might not even want to follow tradition, and why can’t you make your own tradition?

With all of these valid questions, I’m going to share with you an alternative to having a traditional wedding, and that is an Elopement. We’re going to be diving into the key differences an elopement has compared to a traditional wedding and hopefully, we can get you a step closer to deciding how you want to get married – in a way that makes sense for YOU.

The Guest List

Traditional weddings often resemble a larger affair with cousins, coworkers, distant relatives filling up the guest list. For some couples, it’s where you meet family or reconnect with old friends that you didn’t really want to invite but did… because you “had to”. Elopements, on the other hand, are for the couples that prefer a more intimate and private celebration. Not so much in “secret” but a unique experience where its just you two and the view or with your immediate family. It’s taking away the stress of seating charts and people pleasing, and instead giving you the opportunity to invite who ever you want to make it all the more special and meaningful.

Location

While traditional weddings typically take place in churches, courthouse, local town halls or a routinely booked out room at a local venue, Elopements open the door to a world of possibilities. From exchanging views atop a mountain peak at sunrise to having your first dance at sunset outside your dreamy Airbnb Cabin – you can plan it around what you both love. You’re not limited to the availability of a venue or pressured into joining a wait list. You have the freedom to find a place that means something to you both and choose a time that works with your plans and favourite season.

Dress Code

Traditional weddings don’t always have to follow a strict dress code – but with this type of wedding you can generally expect to see the bride in a gorgeous white dress, her bridesmaids coordinated with each other in matching attire, the groomsman in full suits or tuxedos and any guests encourage to wear anything other than white. Elopements, on the other hand, opt for a laid back approach with couples embracing their own style and choosing something more comfortable and confident as they embark on their unique adventure. It’s taking away the pressure of having to look perfect and putting your focus and attention on enjoying the moment.

Photography

The photographs of a traditional wedding and an elopement will be completely different because of the location you are in. Traditional weddings will have 80% of their photographs taken inside where as an elopement is 80% outside. This means more use of natural light and carefully curated photos that incorporate the landscape. Its saying “I do” infront of a gorgeous mountainous sunrise, or in the forest surrounded by wildflowers, towering trees and birdsong. You have the freedom to roam against a backdrop of natural beauty.

Timeline

Traditional weddings follow a strict timeline because there are so many moving parts and suppliers involved to bring your day together smoothly. This is why a lot of couples prefer to have their wedding at one venue because the rules stay the same, keeps everything under one roof and means you’re not stressing about how you’re going to get all your guests from one venue to the next. With elopements, expect to see a more fluid timeline. You have the flexibility to go to multiple locations in one day. Spend the morning together eating pancakes before kayaking across a lake together. You’re not dependant on suppliers or worrying about travel logistics for guests – you make your own rules.

Find what’s right for you

The differences between a traditional wedding and elopement fundamentally come down to what your priorities are and what is most important to you. A wedding day is about celebrating your love and commitment to one another, in a way that feels right for you. Whether you choose to have a big celebration with family and friends or something more private outside in nature, have the courage to break free from expectations of those around you, and craft a unique experience that you both will enjoy.

Want to Elope but not sure where to start? I’d love to hear from you!

I’m based in Calgary and I work with couples that seek adventure and crave a personalised experience for their wedding day. Let’s craft your unforgettable adventure together amongst the breathtaking views of Banff, Jasper National Park, Moraine Lake, Canmore etc. Fill in my contact form here and get planning your dream adventure.