Not long ago, eloping carried a hint of scandal. It was linked more to star-crossed lovers and hurried shotgun weddings than to pragmatic couples aiming to cut costs.
Even the meaning of “elope” has evolved. Historically it implied only the couple, an officiant and any required witnesses were present, and the ceremony was often carried out discreetly, perhaps on courthouse steps. Nowadays, most people agree that a wedding with fewer than 10 guests qualifies as an elopement. That’s even smaller than what many call a “micro” or tiny wedding, where the guest list can reach up to about 30 people.
A recent survey by Helzberg Diamonds revealed that 91 percent of unmarried millennials would consider eloping. It also showed that three out of five young married couples would pick an elopement if they had to choose again instead of a conventional wedding.
One of the most attractive features of eloping is the cost savings. Couples who elope typically spend far less than half of what a traditional celebration would require. The average American wedding cost $19,000 in 2020 (that relatively modest number reflected pandemic-related downsizing and social distancing; in 2019 the figure was $28,000). Brides magazine reports that elopements generally run between $50 and $5,000.
But what if there was a way to split the expense even more cleverly? That allows you to be inventive, prioritize the elements that matter most to you, and perhaps splurge a bit more on your honeymoon.
15 Ways to Keep Costs Low by Eloping
Two wedding planners who craft dream elopements shared their tips for saving money without losing a memorable experience.
Erika Hernandez, founder of The Greatest Adventure Weddings and Elopements in the Pacific Northwest, started planning weddings in 2012 as adventure ceremonies and elopements grew in popularity. Laura Coleman is the production manager for Simply Eloped, which coordinates ceremonies across the country.
One of the biggest perks of eloping is that you’re not bound by the conventions of a traditional wedding.
Coleman recalls some of the creative ways her clients personalize their elopements.
“Want your dad to walk you down the aisle? Of course! Want to skip the usual vows and recite them in Klingon? Absolutely! Go for it! And you don’t have to wear white. There have been incredible elopements where the dress is green, purple, or—best of all—black,” she says.
Before diving into the fun ideas, Hernandez gives clients a reality check when planning elopements: like most things, you get what you pay for. In other words, you shouldn’t expect a Kardashian-level production on a modest budget, let alone a budget-focused plan. Still, there are numerous ways to cut costs without skimping on quality.
Without further ado, here are Coleman’s and Hernandez’s top 15 cost-saving ideas for eloping:
1. The Attire
You can rent outfits, buy ready-to-wear rather than custom-made, or purchase gently used clothing. (There are terrific secondhand shops that even offer new designer gowns from prior seasons. Good online options for pre-owned dresses and accessories include Still White, Pre Owned Wedding Dresses, Nearly Newlywed, and even Facebook Marketplace is worth checking out.)
2. The Family Pieces
Consider family heirlooms or vintage garments. “Chances are your mother or future mother-in-law has a dress tucked away that’s probably back in vogue,” says Coleman.
3. The Bouquets
Be economical with your flowers. Craft your own bouquet or buy a premade arrangement from a local market.
4. The Audio
Use your own devices. Rather than renting an expensive PA system, a Bluetooth speaker connected to your phone is compact and works well for the ceremony and first dance.
5. The Alcohol
Cut down on drink expenses. Instead of a full open bar, create a signature cocktail named after an inside joke or a nickname you share as a couple.
6. The Hair and Makeup
Do your own hair and makeup. “A great middle-ground is taking a lesson with a hair and makeup artist so even if you plan something simple, you’ll have options on the day-of, get some practice, and they can suggest products to keep your hair from frizzing in the rain or prevent mascara from running,” says Hernandez.
7. The Meals
Opt for quality over quantity when it comes to food. Enjoy a lovely picnic with a charcuterie spread or simply have drinks and dessert. This is cozier than dining out and cheaper than hiring a caterer or private chef.
8. The Ceremony Spot
Make use of public land. Renting a private venue carries fees similar to those for a larger wedding party. Instead, choose a scenic location in a park or other government-owned area. There are 423 national park sites in the U.S., so chances are there’s one within driving distance. Permits commonly cost only around $100. For decorations, see the next tip.
9. The Decorations
Nature can provide your decor for free. “The beautiful thing about outdoor elopements is nature is your decor. Let Mother Nature do all the work for you. The trees are your decorations,” says Coleman.
10. The Destination
Elope locally. Travel often makes up the largest expense. An elopement doesn’t need to take place in some bucket-list destination; it can be just as meaningful and lovely if you choose a spot close to home that holds significance for both of you.
11. The Dessert
You don’t need a traditional tiered cake. “If you’re not into cake — choose pie, doughnuts, or cookies! All much more budget-friendly options,” says Hernandez.
12. The Timing
Pick a weekday for your elopement. Vendors are often more available and flexible with hours on weekdays. For example, a vendor might favor booking a longer Saturday package during peak season rather than a short weekday elopement.
13. The Officiant
Don’t overspend on an officiant you don’t know. “If you’re hosting a small group, ask a friend or family member to officiate. In some places, like Colorado, you can even self-officiate, meaning you don’t need an officiant at all,” says Hernandez.
14. The Lodging
You don’t have to stay at a five-star hotel to make lasting memories. “Hotels can be pricey, so book a charming Airbnb near your venue. I’ve even seen couples rent a converted van and camp,” says Coleman.
15. The Travel
If you’re aiming for a more distant location, watch for airfare deals. Many sites and apps alert you when fares drop so you can snag a discounted flight.
Don’t Cut Corners on Keepsakes
One area you shouldn’t skimp on?
“We advise against skimping on vendors, especially photographers and videographers. Your photos and videos are what you’ll revisit for the rest of your lives, and they’re the best way to share your day with those who couldn’t attend,” says Hernandez.
Ultimately, weddings are about celebrating your love with your partner and the family and friends who are delighted you found each other. You could spend $1 million on a wedding and still have an unhappy marriage — just look at the rise in celebrity divorces. Eloping is a smart way to save funds that you and your future family can use long-term. House down payment, anyone?
