Getting married is super exciting! But planning a big wedding can sometimes feel like a lot of work. That’s why some couples choose to elope – it’s all about focusing on your love and starting your adventure together in a simple and meaningful way.
This article is your guide to eloping wedding ideas. Whether you dream of a mountaintop ceremony, a romantic beach wedding, or something totally unique, we’ve got you covered. We’ll look at fun themes, cool decorations, what to wear, awesome places to get married, and yummy food ideas. Plus, we’ll share tips to help you plan your elopement without breaking the bank.
Let’s get started!
Eloping Wedding Themes: Find Your Style

Your elopement theme sets the mood for your whole day. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Romantic Rustic:
- Imagine: A cozy cabin in the woods, wildflowers, and a bonfire under the stars.
- Colors: Soft pinks, creams, light browns, and greens.
- Decor: Wooden signs, lace, burlap, and mason jars filled with candles.
Adventurous:
- Imagine: Hiking to a breathtaking viewpoint for your ceremony, followed by a picnic.
- Colors: Bright colors inspired by nature, like blues, greens, and oranges.
- Decor: Maps, compasses, and photos of your adventures together.
Vintage Glam:
- Imagine: A charming courthouse wedding with a retro feel, followed by a fancy dinner.
- Colors: Gold, black, ivory, and deep reds.
- Decor: Antique furniture, pearls, feathers, and old-fashioned cameras.
Beachy Keen:
- Imagine: Saying “I do” with your toes in the sand, the sound of waves crashing nearby.
- Colors: Ocean blues, sandy browns, whites, and corals.
- Decor: Seashells, starfish, driftwood, and flowing fabrics.
Just Us Two:
- Imagine: A simple and intimate ceremony with only you and your partner present.
- Colors: Any colors you love!
- Decor: Personal touches like photos, favorite books, or items that represent your hobbies.
Making it Personal
No matter what theme you choose, add personal touches to make your elopement special. These could be:
- A special song: Play a song that means something to both of you.
- Meaningful readings: Share poems or quotes that reflect your love story.
- Unique vows: Write your own vows to express your feelings.
Eloping Wedding Decorations: Less is More

Since you’re eloping, you don’t need a ton of decorations. Focus on a few special items that fit your theme and create the mood you want.
- Flowers: A beautiful bouquet and a few floral arrangements can make a big impact.
- Lighting: Candles, fairy lights, or lanterns create a romantic atmosphere.
- Backdrops: If you’re having a ceremony, a simple backdrop like a fabric arch or a natural setting adds a nice touch.
DIY Decor Ideas
- Make your own bouquet: Use flowers from your garden or a local farmers’ market.
- Create a photo display: Showcase your love story with printed photos.
- Decorate with natural elements: Use pinecones, leaves, or shells depending on your location.
What to Wear for Your Elopement
Your elopement attire should be comfortable and reflect your style.
For Her:
- Wedding dress: Choose a dress that’s easy to move in, especially if you’re having an outdoor adventure elopement. Consider a shorter dress, a flowy maxi dress, or a stylish jumpsuit.
- Shoes: Comfortable shoes are a must! Wedges, flats, or even cute boots are great options.
- Accessories: Keep it simple with a few meaningful pieces of jewelry.
For Him:
- Suit or attire: A suit, a blazer with dress pants, or even a nice button-down shirt and khakis can look great.
- Shoes: Dress shoes, loafers, or boots depending on the location and your style.
- Accessories: A tie, bow tie, or pocket square adds a touch of personality.
Eloping Wedding Venues: Where to Say “I Do”
The best part about eloping is that you can get married just about anywhere! Here are some ideas:
Venue Type | Description | Considerations |
---|---|---|
National Parks | Stunning natural beauty, perfect for outdoor ceremonies. | Permits may be required, check park regulations and accessibility. |
Courthouse | Simple and classic, ideal for a no-fuss ceremony. | Availability may be limited, book in advance. |
Botanical Gardens | Romantic and picturesque, surrounded by flowers and greenery. | May have restrictions on decorations or photography, inquire beforehand. |
Private Estate | Exclusive and luxurious, offering privacy and beautiful settings. | Can be more expensive, but often includes amenities and services. |
Bed and Breakfast | Charming and intimate, perfect for a small elopement with close family and friends. | May have limited capacity, confirm guest limits and available dates. |
Art Galleries/Museums | Unique and sophisticated, ideal for art-loving couples. | May require after-hours booking, potentially higher cost. |
Your Backyard! | Meaningful and budget-friendly, especially if your home has sentimental value. | Ensure enough space and privacy for your ceremony. |
Finding the Perfect Spot
When choosing your venue, think about:
- Your style: Does it fit your vision and theme?
- Accessibility: Is it easy to get to?
- The scenery: Will it look amazing in your photos?
- The weather: Have a backup plan in case of rain or snow.
Eloping Wedding Food and Drinks

Keep your meal simple and enjoyable. Here are some ideas:
- Restaurant dinner: Make a reservation at your favorite restaurant.
- Catered meal: Hire a caterer to bring the food to your venue.
- Picnic: Pack a gourmet picnic basket with your favorite treats.
- Cake and champagne: Celebrate with a small wedding cake and a toast.
Eloping on a Budget
Eloping can be a great way to save money, but it’s still important to set a budget. Here are some ways to keep costs down:
- Choose an affordable venue: Consider a park, a backyard, or a less popular time of year.
- Keep the guest list small: The fewer guests you have, the less you’ll spend on food and drinks.
- DIY your decorations: Get creative and make your own decorations.
- Find a pre-owned dress or suit: Check out consignment shops or online marketplaces.
- Skip the favors: Your guests won’t miss them!
Eloping Wedding Checklist
Here’s a quick checklist to help you plan your elopement:
- Set a date.
- Choose a location and venue.
- Obtain any necessary permits or licenses.
- Book an officiant.
- Plan your ceremony and vows.
- Choose your attire.
- Arrange for flowers and decorations.
- Plan your meal or reception.
- Hire a photographer.
- Enjoy your day!
Tying the Knot Your Way
Eloping is about celebrating your love in a way that feels true to you. Whether you want a grand adventure or a quiet moment of intimacy, plan an elopement that reflects your unique relationship. Remember, the most important thing is to say “I do” to the love of your life.
We hope these elopement wedding ideas have inspired you to start planning your perfect day!
FAQs About Eloping Weddings
What is the point of eloping?
Eloping is a great choice for couples who want a stress-free and intimate wedding experience. It allows you to focus on each other and your commitment without the pressure and expense of a traditional wedding.
Is eloping cheaper than a wedding?
Generally, yes! Eloping can be much more affordable than a traditional wedding. You can save on venue rental, catering, decorations, and other expenses associated with a larger celebration.
How do you announce you’re eloping?
You can announce your elopement before or after the ceremony, depending on your preference. Some couples choose to share the news with close family and friends beforehand, while others prefer to surprise everyone with photos and announcements after the elopement.
What do you do after eloping?
After eloping, you can celebrate in any way you like! Some couples enjoy a romantic dinner, a mini-honeymoon, or simply relax and enjoy their newlywed status. You can also plan a party or reception later to celebrate with loved ones.
How do you plan an elopement wedding?
Planning an elopement is similar to planning a traditional wedding, but on a smaller scale. Start by setting a budget, choosing a date and location, and securing an officiant. Then, focus on the details that are important to you, such as your attire, flowers, and photography. Remember to obtain any necessary permits or licenses for your chosen location.