The Adventure Bride’s Guide to Adventure Wedding Do’s & Don’ts

Hey Adventure Brides!

Eloping is an intimate and personal way to exchange vows with your partner, but it's essential to navigate the process with grace and consideration. In this guide, we'll explore the dos and don'ts of elopement etiquette to ensure that your special day is filled with love, joy, and respect for each other and those around you.

Dos:

1. Communicate with Loved Ones

While eloping is about celebrating your love in a private setting, it's essential to communicate your plans with close family and friends to avoid feelings that may potentially feel hurt. Let them know your decision and share your excitement with them. “We Eloped!” announcements with your favorite photo from your day is a good way to show just how happy you are together while giving them fun mail to open and keeping them in the loop.

Brown wedding IL; photography by Lacey Graham

If you wish to inform people beforehand, that is ok too! You can let them know it’s nothing against them, but all to do with your wishes for how you want your day to look!

2. Respect Local Regulations

Whether you're eloping in a national park, on a beach, or in a foreign country, be sure to research and adhere to any regulations or permit requirements for your chosen location. If you’re visiting another country make sure you do your research. What side of the road do they drive on and do they accept your current license? What social expectations does the culture uphold so that you don’t accidentally offend someone during your day?

If in a national park, what does their permit process look like? What regulations do they have regarding florals, campfires, and wildlife?

3. Express Gratitude

Take the time to thank those who have supported you on your journey, whether it's through a heartfelt note, a small gift, or a post-elopement celebration. Especially if you’re eloping due to familial drama or refusal to support your relationship, it’s important to recognize those who DO support and love you both!

Brown wedding IL; photography by Lacey Graham

4. Stay True to Yourselves

Your elopement should reflect your personalities and values as a couple. Don't feel pressured to conform to traditional wedding expectations if they don't align with your vision.

If you want to wear a black dress, WEAR A BLACK DRESS! If you want to trash the dress at the end of your ceremony, DO IT! It’s your day!

5. Be Present in the Moment

Amidst the excitement of your elopement day, take moments to pause, breathe, and savor the experience with your partner. It's a day you'll cherish for a lifetime. Your wedding shouldn’t feel like a giant photo shoot. It should feel like you having fun with your partner and any guests you chose to invite, while your photographer captures those memories.

Don'ts:

1. Exclude Close Loved Ones Without Explanation

Brown wedding IL; photography by Lacey Graham

While eloping is a personal choice, excluding close family and friends without explanation can lead to hurt feelings and misunderstandings. Communicate your reasons for eloping clearly and respectfully.

2. Disregard Environmental Impact

If you're eloping in a natural setting, be mindful of your environmental impact. Leave no trace, pack out what you pack in, and respect the local flora and fauna. It’s often required to use artificial florals in order to prevent spreading seeds or insects sneaking inside the bouquet to the rest of the forest.

3. Forget Legalities

Ensure that your elopement is legally recognized by obtaining the necessary marriage licenses or paperwork beforehand. Failure to do so could lead to complications down the line, and obviously that’s a headache that NOBODY wants to deal with!

4. Overstep Boundaries

Brown wedding IL; photography by Lacey Graham

While eloping allows for a more intimate celebration, be mindful of your partner's boundaries and comfort levels. Respect their wishes and preferences throughout the planning process. It’s easy to lose yourself in the excitement, but make sure they’re mentally and emotionally right there with you all the way!

5. Rush Through the Experience

Your elopement day is about more than just saying "I do." Take the time to savor each moment, from getting ready together to exchanging vows and beyond. It's a day you'll want to remember for the rest of your lives! and when in doubt…order the photo book! You’ll be so glad you did!

Navigating elopement etiquette is about honoring your love and your relationship while respecting the feelings and expectations of those around you. By communicating openly, staying true to yourselves, and approaching your elopement day with grace and gratitude, you can create a celebration that's as meaningful as it is memorable.

Till next week!

-Carlie