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Lana Rose Events | Wedding Planner - The Elopement Checklist

Lana Rose

6 min read

Apr 3

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All the Essentials for Planning Your 2024 Elopement Wedding


Arizona Elopement

Are you ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime? Congratulations on taking the first step towards your dream elopement! At Lana Rose Events, we specialize in crafting unforgettable elopement experiences that celebrate your unique love story. From breathtaking mountaintops to secluded beaches to wild helicopter adventures, we're here to make your elopement dreams a reality.


In this blog:


Why Elope?


Eloping isn't just about skipping the big wedding—it's about celebrating your love in an intimate and personal way. It's about escaping the stress and financial burden of a traditional wedding and choosing a destination that speaks to your hearts. It's about creating an experience that is authentically you, without the pressure of conforming to societal expectations.


So why should you consider eloping? Here are a few reasons:

  • Flexibility: With an elopement, you have the freedom to choose your location, customize your ceremony, and focus solely on each other. Whether you've always dreamed of saying your vows on a mountaintop at sunrise or on a secluded beach at sunset, eloping allows you to design a day that reflects your personalities and priorities.


  • Intimacy: Elopements are all about intimacy. Instead of worrying about pleasing a large number of guests, you can focus solely on your own happiness and create an experience that is intimate and meaningful. With fewer guests, you can truly be in the moment and savor the emotions of the day.


  • Adventure: Eloping gives you the opportunity to embark on an adventure together. Whether you're hiking to a remote waterfall, exploring a hidden cave, or soaring above the clouds in a helicopter, eloping allows you to create memories that will last a lifetime.


  • Affordability: Elopements are often more budget-friendly compared to traditional weddings. With fewer guests to accommodate and fewer expenses overall, you can save money while still having the wedding of your dreams.


  • Freedom: Eloping gives you the freedom to design a day that is authentically you. Whether you want to exchange vows in a formal ceremony or have a casual picnic on the beach, eloping allows you to create a day that reflects your personalities and priorities.


The Ultimate Elopement Checklist


Now that you've decided to elope, it's time to start planning! Here's our ultimate elopement checklist to help guide you through the process:


Before the Elopement

  • Decide on a Budget: Determine how much you're willing to spend on your elopement and allocate funds accordingly. Consider expenses such as travel, accommodation, ceremony fees, attire, photography, and any additional services you may require.


  • Choose a Date: Select a date that works for both you and your partner. Consider factors such as weather, availability of your preferred location, and any personal significance the date may hold.


  • Hire an Elopement Photographer: Having someone who specializes in elopements matters. An elopement photographer believes in your why and honors everything you put into your elopement. They'll capture every moment of your adventure, from the quiet moments to the epic vistas.


  • Research and Choose a Destination: Take the time to research different elopement destinations and choose one that resonates with you as a couple. Consider factors such as travel requirements, local laws and regulations, and the overall vibe of the location.


  • Obtain Necessary Documents: Check the legal requirements for getting married in your chosen destination and ensure you have all the necessary documents. This may include passports, birth certificates, divorce or death certificates (if applicable), and any other paperwork required by the local authorities.


  • Book Travel and Accommodation: Once you've decided on a destination, book your travel and accommodation well in advance. Consider factors such as flight availability, accommodation options, and proximity to your ceremony location.


  • Research Local Vendors: If you require any additional services such as a florist, hair and makeup artist, or a wedding planner, research local vendors in your chosen destination. Read reviews, compare prices, and book your preferred vendors as early as possible.


  • Create a Timeline: Having some sort of timeline is essential to the flow of your day. Remember when putting this together to give yourself plenty of transition time and room for spontaneity!


  • Choose Your Attire: Select attire that reflects your personal style and the overall vibe of your elopement. Whether you opt for a traditional wedding gown, a casual dress, or a suit, make sure you feel comfortable and confident in what you're wearing.


  • Arrange Transportation: If your ceremony location is separate from your accommodation, consider arranging transportation for you and your partner. This could be a private car, a horse-drawn carriage, or any other mode of transportation that adds to the experience.


Don't Forget These Pre-Ceremony Necessities


While everyone's needs may vary, here are some essentials to consider:

For Brides:

Wedding attire

Cover-Up or Shawl (If it's going to be cold!)

Jewelry (earrings, necklace, bracelet)

Hair accessories

Shoes (don't forget socks!)

Undergarments/Lingerie

Purse/Clutch

For Grooms:

Suit or outfit

Tie, belt, cufflinks

Shoes

Jacket or Coat

Wedding Rings

Community Items:

Misc:


During the Elopement

  • Choose a Ceremony Location: Select a location that holds special meaning to you as a couple or simply one that captures your hearts. Whether it's a secluded beach, a lush garden, or a mountaintop, choose a place that resonates with your love story.


  • Write Your Vows: Take the time to write personalized vows that express your love and commitment to each other. This is an opportunity to share your hopes, dreams, and promises for the future.


  • Select Ceremony Decor: Decide on the type of decor you'd like for your ceremony. This could include floral arrangements, an arch, candles, or any other elements that enhance the ambiance of the location.


  • Choose Ceremony Music: Select music that is meaningful to you as a couple. Whether it's a live musician, a playlist of your favorite songs, or the sound of nature, music can add a special touch to your ceremony.


  • Say "I Do": The moment you've been waiting for—exchange vows and declare your love for each other in front of your chosen witnesses or in private.


After the Elopement

  • Obtain a Marriage Certificate: Depending on the laws of your chosen destination, you may need to obtain a marriage certificate. Research the requirements and process for obtaining a legal marriage certificate and complete the necessary steps.


  • Notify Family and Friends: Share the exciting news of your elopement with your loved ones. Whether it's through phone calls, video chats, or personalized announcements, let your family and friends know that you've tied the knot.


  • Send Thank-You Notes: If you received any gifts or well-wishes from family and friends, take the time to send thank-you notes to express your gratitude. This is a thoughtful gesture that shows appreciation for their support and love.


  • Plan a Celebration: Consider planning a celebration to share your joy with family and friends who couldn't be present at your elopement. Whether it's a casual gathering, a dinner party, or a reception-style event, celebrate your love with those closest to you.


  • Reflect and Celebrate: Take the time to reflect on your elopement experience and celebrate the love and commitment you've made to each other. Whether it's a romantic dinner, a weekend getaway, or any other activity that allows you to reconnect and celebrate your journey together, cherish this special time together.



Sunset Elopement

Elopement Budgeting and Cost-Saving Tips


While elopements can be more budget-friendly compared to traditional weddings, it's still important to plan and budget accordingly. Here are some budgeting and cost-saving tips to help you make the most of your elopement:


  • Determine Your Priorities: Identify the elements that are most important to you and allocate funds accordingly. Whether it's photography, location, or accommodation, prioritize what matters most to you as a couple.


  • Consider Weekdays and Off-Peak Seasons: Opting for a weekday elopement or getting married during the off-peak season can often result in significant cost savings. Venues and vendors may offer discounted rates during these times.


  • Explore DIY Options: Get creative and consider DIY options for decor, wedding favors, and even your attire. This not only adds a personal touch to your elopement but can also save you money.


  • Opt for Local Vendors: If you're getting married in a destination away from home, consider hiring local vendors. They may have more affordable rates compared to vendors who need to travel to your location.


  • Keep the Guest List Small: One of the advantages of eloping is that you can keep the guest list small. By limiting the number of guests, you can save on catering, venue costs, and other expenses associated with accommodating a large group.


Remember to be realistic about your budget and stick to it. It's important to prioritize what is most meaningful to you as a couple and allocate funds accordingly.


Ready to Say "I Do" to Adventure?


At Lana Rose Events, we're passionate about creating unforgettable elopement experiences that celebrate your unique love story. Whether you're dreaming of exchanging vows on a mountaintop, on a secluded beach, or in the heart of the wilderness, we're here to make your elopement dreams a reality.


From budgeting and booking to ceremony planning and coordination, we'll guide you through every step of the process with care and attention to detail. Our goal is to ensure that your elopement is stress-free, magical, and filled with love and adventure.


So why wait? Let's start planning your dream elopement today! Reach out to us to schedule your free consultation, and let's begin this incredible journey together.


Cheers to love, adventure, and happily ever after!


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