What is a Modern-Day Elopement?

I am just here voice what many couples out there are thinking, traditional weddings are not for everyone! If you're currently nodding your head in agreement and feeling relieved that someone has finally said it, then you, my friend have come to the right place. You are not alone! Phew, isn't that a relief to hear? Many couples just like you have come to the realization that traditional weddings just aren't their jam. For some, a big wedding \ can be filled with obligations, expectations, stress, and pressure that frankly have no place on the day you commit your lives to one another. So, what’s a couple to do when societal norms don’t align with their authentic selves? The answer is simple: elope! Before we dive into what elopement means and what an elopement experience entails, let me calm your racing minds. Some of you may be thinking, "Elope? We don't have a reason to hide our marriage," "We can't elope, what will our families think?" and "What even is an elopement?" But before you reject the idea of elopements altogether, let me introduce you to the modern elopement.

couple stands embracing on balcony of Ohiopyle Vacation Rental on their elopement day.

 

Gone are the days when elopements were a rushed, secret affair clouded in scandal and disapproval. Modern elopements are intentionally small, intimate, and wildly unique experiences that give a couple absolute power to celebrate their love in an uninhibited way. Elopements are for couples who care deeply about how they get married and are willing to cast aside others’ expectations to create an authentic wedding experience that honors who they are at their core and what they value. If you’re sitting there thinking “yes, that’s us!” Then keep on reading!

 

Modern elopements are no longer subjected to the Vegas strip or a courthouse (although these options are still perfectly valid). The truth is, modern elopements can take on any form that you desire! Picture yourselves saying “I do” on top of a mountain, surrounded by a sea of wildflowers. Or, imagine exchanging your vows riverside, with a lone merganser as a witness and the river rushing by, whispering its good wishes in your ear. They can be an intimate backyard ceremony at a vacation rental followed by a deliciously catered meal with only your closest friends and family. The possibilities for elopements are truly endless.

 

In the wake of the pandemic, there was a significant surge in elopements, intimate weddings, and micro weddings. Interestingly, even as the world begins to return to normalcy and traditional, big weddings are once again on the rise, these small and unique wedding experiences are continuing to gain popularity. And we at Ohiopyle Weddings are HERE. FOR. IT. But why are couples still opting for the modern elopement route rather than the traditional wedding experience? Well, let me tell you! So, sit back, relax, and let's explore some of the reasons why more and more couples are choosing to elope.

 

  1. Elopements allow couples the opportunity to stay true to their values and have a wedding experience that is 100% authentic and intentional.

  • Some couples want the big celebration, the raging party, the glitz and glam of traditional weddings and that is 100% okay. Just because elopements are in, does not mean big weddings are out (in fact we at Ohiopyle Weddings cater to both types of weddings and love celebrating love in all its forms!). It just means that couples are realizing that they have options when it comes to how they declare their love and commitment to each other. Couples who opt for elopements often seek intimacy and close connections, which may get lost in the fuss of a large wedding. With the strict schedules, excitement, and potential chaos of a traditional wedding, some couples may find it challenging to spend enough quality time with their guests, let alone their partner. Elopements and intimate weddings provide couples with the freedom to create a day that is a genuine reflection of their relationship. This could involve having a private ceremony or inviting a small group of close friends and family to witness the occasion. Whatever form the elopement takes, its intention allows the focus to remain on what truly matters: the couple and their love for each other. In the end, the only thing that truly matters is the love and commitment that the couple shares, not whether Cousin Kathy dislikes the steak or Uncle Bob is unhappy that the ceremony is not religious.

Bride in white dress with feather tassles and groom in grown suit kiss on their elopement day. Groom has his hands in the "rock out" sign and bride is holding her bouquet in the air.

 

2. Elopements allow for a laid-back, mostly stress-free wedding experience.

  • If you have ever been close to someone planning a large, traditional wedding, you’ve likely heard some form of these words (often accompanied by tears and followed up with a large glass of wine),  “I am so stressed out,” “wedding planning is so stressful,” “I just cant wait for this all to be over,” or “I can’t seem to make anyone happy” ….woof that’s a lot of heavy feelings for a day that is supposed to be the best day of your life. While some couples thrive when planning, others can feel overwhelmed by this daunting task, no matter how much help they receive. The good news is that it's okay to feel this way, and modern elopements offer a solution to forego the stress and anxiety that can come with planning a big wedding. So, let's raise a glass to a more laid-back and enjoyable wedding experience.

waist shot down of groom pouring champagne into the top glass of a champagne tower.

3. Elopements provide a more enjoyable wedding experience for introverted couples.

  • We are living in the age of personality tests, enneagrams, and zodiac signs, and it seems like more and more people are identifying with their unique personality needs. We all have different wants and needs that shape the way we choose to live our lives so it should come as no surprise that our personalities can also influence the way we choose to get married. The extroverted among us live for large groups and don’t mind loads of attention, while those who are more introverted prefer intimate environments and may feel uncomfortable with all eyes on them. There is no way around it, traditional weddings are designed for extroverts to thrive and for introverts to, well not thrive. Extroverts may be drawn towards the traditions that big weddings hold, with all eyes are on them and every single important human (and sometimes pet) on the guest list. If that’s the case than a big wedding is 100% what they should do. Elopements, on the other hand, offer a more comfortable alternative for introverted couples, allowing them to exchange vows in a peaceful and intimate setting, surrounded only by those closest to them. They provide a more relaxed and stress-free experience, and the focus remains on the love and commitment between the couple.

Bride stands with her back to the camera holing onto grooms shoulders. Groom is holding bride, smiling with his eyes closes. Both are blissfully happy they just eloped with Ohiopyle Weddings

4. Elopements offer couples who love nature and exploration a unique opportunity to wed with these values in mind.

  • If you’ve hopped on Pinterest or scrolled through Instagram lately your bound to come across exceptionally beautiful pictures of couples tying the knot on rugged mountaintops or idyllic coastlines. Adventure elopements are having a moment (a moment that we personally hope is here to stay). This style of elopement allows couples who live for adventure and the great outdoors an opportunity to wed in cathedrals of oak trees or along the holy waters of a riverbed. However, it's important to note that adventure elopements are just one type of elopement available. At Ohiopyle Weddings, we offer a variety of options to ensure that every couple can have the elopement experience that aligns with their beliefs and preferences.

Bride in short white dress, long veil, and white boots sits on the ground during golden hour with pink and white bouquet laying next to her. She has her eyes closed and groom is standing behind her with his hands in his brown suit pockets.

 

5. Elopements allow couples to intentionally choose how and where to spend their wedding budget.

  • Many couples opt for elopements not because they want to cut costs, but because they prefer to allocate their funds in a way that reflects their personal priorities. For example, they may choose to invest in a professional elopement photographer and videographer to capture their special day, or create an intimate tablescape complete with dreamy décor, flowers, and a beautifully catered meal. Rather than spending money on a DJ, floral center pieces for every table, and bar tabs for hundreds of guests, couples can use their wedding budget to create a personalized, meaningful experience that truly speaks to them.

Bride and groom stand at balcony of their Ohiopyle Vacation Rental on their elopement day. Bride in white dress has her eblows resting on railing with bouquet handing over. She is looking up and smiling at her groom who is looking down at her.

 

6. Elopements allow couples to save some money.

  • Weddings can be very expensive, with costs quickly adding up for venues, food, flowers, alcohol, music, and decorations. Opting for a small and intimate wedding simply costs less than a traditional wedding which in turn allows couples to save money. Saving money on their wedding can enable couples to invest in other important life events, such as purchasing a home or starting a family. Although it's not typically the main reason couples choose to elope, it's a significant benefit.

Bride and groom stand arm in arm laughing on their elopement day. In front of them is their white wedding cake atop a green velvet tablecloth and behind them sit two mustard gold his and hers chairs.

 

7. Elopements allow couples who do not have the support of their families to have an incredible wedding experience where they feel safe and seen.

  • If it were up to us every single couple we work with, heck every human on this planet would have the unwavering support of their families in all aspects of their lives.  Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Some couples opt to elope because they do not want to deal with drama and tension that unsupportive family members could bring to their wedding day.

 

Well, there you have it – a crash course in modern day elopements! So, what now? Are you a couple that is passionate about exploring and enjoys being in nature? Do you prefer a non-traditional, intimate, or out-of-the-box experience for your wedding day? If you answered yes to any of these questions, an elopement with Ohiopyle Weddings might be perfect for you. We understand that planning a wedding can be stressful, and we are here to help you find the dream setting for your wedding experience no matter the size!  Our focus is on you and your love, not on the expectations and obligations of others. We promise to make the journey to your wedding say as stress-free as possible. If you feel a connection to what we offer, we’d love to hear from you and learn more about your vision for your special day.

xx Ohiopyle Weddings

Styled Shoot Information:

Hosts + Planning - @whatmiasawphotography + @ohiopyleweddings
Florals - @thetwistedrosecoflowers
Venue - @ohiopyleweddings
Models - @blackabbath_ + @calebgartmann
Cake + Doughnuts - @fluffsstuffcake
Suites + Invites - @sweetveradesigns
Catering - @thestonehouseinn
Event Design + Rentals - @wildrootseventspa
Hair + Makeup - @whatmiasaid
Photography - @Millis_Memories_Photography

Lanie GreenbaumOhiopyle Weddings