Elopements are going to have their big year in 2020! While eloping traditionally means to run away, or flee in secret to wed, this term has now shifted to also represent smaller, more intimate ceremonies, sometimes with close friends and family members present. With the current restrictions on gatherings in Alberta due to COVID-19, many engaged couples are choosing to postpone their original wedding plans and instead opting for smaller, low-key affairs. Several couples are struggling with the disappointment of not being able to have the big day they planned for this spring and summer in Calgary (I hear you; I am one of them!). However, choosing to host a smaller celebration can be just as beautiful, and elopements are always so personal and meaningful. Plus, a larger celebration can always be held later (once allowed) with all your family and friends present! If you are thinking of postponing your wedding this year, and switching to a smaller gathering, read on for some reasons why you should consider eloping.
Elopements are extremely personal and romantic
Having a smaller group of your closest friends and family, or just the two of you, means that you can focus on what really matters in a wedding – the combining of two lives and two families, joined together by love! You will be able to enjoy the day more privately, especially if you hate being the centre of attention. Be sure that if you are planning to invite close family and friends, that you are following the current social distancing guidelines to ensure everyone stays safe and healthy! You always have the option of then hosting a larger reception with all of your family and friends, and even a vow renewal ceremony on your 1-year anniversary.
Save some cash!
Elopements are generally less expensive than a traditional larger wedding, and less guests means you can work within a tighter budget. This is a great way to save some money on your wedding, as a limited guest list helps avoids the big price tag of having to feed and entertain multiple people. Instead, you can splurge on a beautiful dress, or a big bouquet, and an amazing meal for just the two of you.
Less to plan
Planning not your thing? A smaller, more intimate wedding can be as simple or as extravagant as you like, but because the guest list is much smaller, the planning is less intensive than a traditional large wedding. Having said that, if you are still feeling overwhelmed, a day-of coordinator can help with your elopement to ensure the whole day runs smoothly.
Your wedding, your way!
A wedding always seems to bring about the opinions (some welcome and some not!) of others on what you should do, like what flowers you should choose, who you should invite, what food you should serve..the list goes on. Eloping means that you can choose exactly what you want, with little to no outside pressure. Want to wear a red wedding dress? You can! If you’ve dreamed about getting hitched on the top of a snow-capped mountain, you can! Ditch the norms and plan what you and your partner want, and what speaks to you as a couple, to ensure your wedding 100% reflects you both.
Alberta has some absolutely stunning venues that are still available for intimate gatherings this summer. Take a look at Fly Free Photography's latest blog which lists some of the most beautiful little venues in Calgary that are open and ready for your summer elopement!
Remember, love is not cancelled, and no matter how big or small your wedding ends up being, it will be a memorable day, and the start of your lifetimes together as a married couple!
All images sourced from Pinterest
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