Allison and Michael , who live in Junee, New South Wales, made the decision to elope when holidaying on the Gold Coast and celebrated their marriage with only a few close family. They enjoyed an intimate wedding ceremony in the beautiful Rotary Broadwater Chapel on the Gold Coast.
It was still necessary for them to give one month’s notice before their wedding day and for all the legal requirements to be followed.
What Does It Mean to Elope?
Eloping takes on a different meaning for every couple.
Have you ever heard about a couple eloping without telling anyone or quickly getting married at the registry office or with a celebrant? It may seem like weddings are a hit, but eloping is not an uncommon practice these days. In fact, some couples even choose romantic places when they decide to elope. This can make the celebration both inexpensive and merry.
Eloping means to get married without telling anyone. To elope may also suggest that you forgo a formal wedding and elope for the ceremony instead.
Why Do Couples Elope?
There are many reasons why couples decide to elope.
One possible reason is that the couple may feel that they would rather spend their money on a home or perhaps a honeymoon or trip rather than a traditional wedding. Weddings can be stressful and expensive to plan. Couples may choose to elope to reduce the stress and financial burden. Other couples may decide that they would rather save the money for their future.
Does Eloping Mean Not Having a Wedding At All?
Forgoing a large, traditional wedding to elope does not necessarily mean completely skipping a ceremony or reception to celebrate the occasion.
Sometimes, couples who elope simply want to have a more intimate and quiet wedding with a limited number of guests.
It doesn’t matter if it’s just a few people or a dozen who witness the couple getting married, there are still a few things to consider. For instance, they may still want to plan to exchange rings and vows or choose wedding-like attire, no matter how casual. Some couples also like to have photographs to capture the memories. Even flowers can mimic a traditional wedding while keeping things simple.
Other couples may elope to a destination, then return home and host a small reception that includes family and friends. You might even find couples who exchange vows in front of their guests, even though they are already legally married.
Eloping Is a Personal Decision
Every couple has their personal reasons and definitions of what it means to elope. While some choose an intimate beach setting on a tropical island, others may prefer a quiet chapel or garden setting for their wedding. There is no right or wrong answer to eloping and it should not be viewed in a negative way.
What is most important is that the couple follows their own desires and whatever path makes them happy. For many, the idea of a traditional wedding simply isn’t a good fit and they prefer to do it their own way.
Whether couples choose a traditional wedding or an elopement wedding it is a celebration of their love and commitment to each other as they become husband and wife.