Once the engagement ring slips on your finger, all attention turns to the big day.
For many couples over the last year, weddings have been cancelled, postponed or altered into smaller affairs. Not exactly the dream of most engaged couples.
Even as restrictions are lifted across the UK, many couples are still assessing the best way to start their happily ever afters.
While many have chosen to delay their nuptials in anticipation of a huge celebration in a fully vaccinated tomorrow, others are considering a different route altogether.
Eloping is on the rise. As many couples face less certain financial futures than their parents, the rise of the elopement has been encouraged by couples looking to save money on an elaborate wedding they don’t really want. Instead, choosing to save their money to buy a house or anything else they might need in married life.
But now, the Covid-19 pandemic and wedding restrictions have given rise to the elopement once more.
What exactly is an elopement?
Simply put, an elopement is when a couple decides to marry in private. This often involves a trip away to get married somewhere.
Usually, couples who elope do so in places where it is easy to obtain a marriage license and certificate without giving notice or having bands read.
Where do people usually elope to?
Often, couples who choose to elope will pick Las Vegas or other American locations as they offer easy access to marriage licenses and cheap ceremonies. Plus, they can take their honeymoon directly afterwards if they’re already away.
Typically, Gretna Green has been the traditional elopement location in the UK.
What to consider when eloping?
There are lots of things to consider when you elope. First and foremost is where you want to get married and how much your budget is.
You will also want to consider how to tell your family. Unfortunately, some families feel very entitled to be part of your big day, no matter how good your reasons for eloping are.
It is important to remember why you’re eloping and not be swayed by other people’s bullying emotions. Remember, it is your day and your money, not theirs.
Then, you will need to contact an officiant or venue in the location you’re eloping to get your wedding sorted.
You might also need to organise going to registry or county clerk offices to get your marriage licence. If you are getting married abroad, do your research.
Each country will have different marriage laws and you must be compliant with them.
This is especially important for same-sex couples as your marriage will not be legal in every country. To be recognised in the UK, your same-sex marriage must be legal in the country in which you marry.
