Have you thought of your wedding, but not like a big traditional celebration but more in a small, secret, minimalistic kind of way? If you ever wondered if there was a word for that, the answer is yes. Elopement.

Bride and groom holding hands beneath tall palm trees

It is a more authentic and meaningful experience. There are not any expectations. There are just two people deeply in love with each other. It’s just that simple. It is all about their love, not the pressure or anxiety caused by a wedding. 

Elopement is the freedom to marry someone you love, even if something from the outside prevents it. You can just jump on the next flight to your dream destination and quickly sign a paper. Or you can go on a long hike and say your vows on the top of a mountain, surrounded by an amazing sunset. Sounds like something you and your partner want to experience? 

A couple looking out on a cliff

When you forget about all the traditions that no one really knows why couples have to follow, you have control over everything. There are no such things as judgment, shame or embarrassment. Just love and pure happiness. 

That’s exactly what Kosovare and Lukas chose, just like many other wonderful people I’ve met.

Elopements are not focused on details like bridesmaids, table garlands, traditions or performances. It is all about intimacy and authenticity. Such a wedding emphasises its importance. Create memories that will last a lifetime. You can focus on what is most important. You, your partner and your love. 

Elopements, in contrast to traditional weddings, do not have any rules. You choose your own priorities. You make your own rules. There are no bad ideas here. You can do whatever you want on your big day. Even if something sounds crazy to others. You want it? You totally can do it!  

Man kisses fiancés hand on cliff

For some people, elopements might sound like rushed, quick, last-minute and unplanned ceremonies. But it is far from true. Your big (or small) day does not have to take just a few hours. What about 2 days? Sounds like a good plan? Or what about saying your vows on a sandy beach? Or on a glacier? Crazy? Not at all!

couple stand on large rock over looking the water
Romantic elopement bride and groom on the boat in Faro.
Bride and groom holding hands on the beach

Also, if you want to have the best day of your life, there is no rush at all. You can plan everything from cover to cover. A lot of couples plan their elopements in advance. You can do anything that comes to mind.

But referring to the fact that WE SET THE RULES ourselves, at such a wedding, it does not always have to be only the spouses. You can bring whoever you want. Bring your mom, dad, sibling, friend or even your pet! It is all up to you. 

Close up shot of bride and grooms feet in Alvor, Portugal
Bride and friend jump on beach in Alvor, Portugal

An elopement is meant for people who want to have an intimate wedding. For people who want to avoid pressure and anxiety. Couples that want to feel free and do what they really want to do. Having one (or more) day without any worries. Being just with the two of them or surrounded by close family and friends. Having no one over your head telling you what you can or can’t do. Just to listen to their hearts. Close your eyes, think of the best way to spend the day with your partner, and start planning your elopement! 

Bride and groom laying down in Loule, Portugal

All photos: everafterframes.com elopement photographer and planner

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