Whether you’ve never dreamed of a big wedding, the thought of having all eyes on you scares you, or you just want to save money, eloping could be an option for you. Here are our tips for elopement and letting your friends and family know you want an elopement wedding.

With the recent news of Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck’s secret wedding, searches for “secret wedding” have jumped 65% in the past month, suggesting more couples are considering escaping wedding stress and eloping.

The best tips for an elopement wedding

To help couples, life insurance broker Reassured has put together tips on eloping and not making your family feel left out. Read below for elopement etiquette and how to have your secret dream wedding without offending your loved ones.

1. Do your research in advance

Depending on where you plan to flee to, find out about current laws and regulations. In some countries you may need a marriage certificate and a witness, and you may need to make an appointment with a registrar in advance.

In the UK you must register in advance, including the location of your venue, in order to get married.

2. Check with your partner

Make sure you and your partner are looking for the same type of ceremony. When planning, cover issues such as what you will wear or whether you would like to exchange rings and a bouquet of flowers. Be as creative or as traditional as you like – this is your day!

3. Choose your witnesses

In the UK you need two witnesses; they can either be friends of yours or even total strangers. However, to avoid unnecessary stress, it is good to speak to them in advance and make sure they are available on the day.

4. Celebrate your wedding

Elopement inevitably leads to being able to celebrate your wedding however you want. You could surprise your family and friends and throw a party with them, or you might prefer to enjoy a fancy meal in a nice restaurant alone for two. It’s your choice!

5. How you tell your family and friends

If you decide to celebrate your wedding without family and friends, but it’s important not to offend them, consider how best to break the news. First of all, remember that running away does not mean that you are not close to your family!

Another option is to plan a small reception with your family – that way your ceremony will be just you and your groomsmen and your family can still celebrate with you!

Because the most important thing is: however you plan and celebrate your wedding, it has to suit you and your partner – it’s all about you!

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