Elopements have so many positive aspects to them, but one of my favorite parts is the fact that ANYONE can afford to elope (yes, I’m serious)! As an Oregon elopement photographer, I have met many couples with varying budgets. Having limitations on what you're willing to spend on your wedding day isn’t a bad thing, in fact, it can even be a good thing! I’ve seen elopements consist of everything from elegant intimate receptions to a simple ceremony and I truly love each one. With this experience, I have gained a strong understanding of the best things you can do to plan your elopement on a budget so if you’re trying to plan your elopement without breaking the bank you have come to the right place. We’re going to go over just how you can plan an elopement and stick to your budget!

Hire A Planner

First and foremost, hire a planner. Please. I can’t express how thankful you’ll be to have hired someone in the industry to assist you. By hiring a wedding planner you will not only get the most out of your budget but you also don’t need to deal with the unnecessary stress! I know what you’re thinking: “what wedding planner is going to plan my small elopement?” Well, I’m here to let you know that thinking wedding planners are only for traditional or expensive weddings is a myth. In fact, most planners have experience with all types of weddings and would love to be a part of bringing your day to life. I know the thought of paying for a planner can be a bit intimidating but I promise it will be 100% worth your money. Not only will your planner have a system in place for detailing your wedding day but they most likely already have connections within the industry. The bonus to this is that oftentimes industry experts are able to snag some deals for you! 

Specifying Your Elopement Expectations

Once you have your planner they will get a lot of the groundwork started for you such as helping you secure a venue or location, assisting you with finding transportation and accommodations that fit within your budget, and more! But, as you begin planning with them you will also want to decide what you want your wedding day to look like. Do you want just a sweet ceremony in a romantic setting or are you looking for a ceremony followed by an intimate dinner with close friends and family? This decision will influence the way you utilize your budget. 

Intimate Ceremony Only

For my friends looking for the simplicity and intimacy of a ceremony-only elopement, you won’t need to have a large budget. Depending on where you elope you may need to purchase permits but aside from that you’ll really only be spending money on your wedding attire, florals, officiant, and transportation (and photography, of course)! I love intimate ceremonies like these. The sweet words shared in a romantic location is unlike any other wedding experience and the focus is 100% on your relationship. And, if this is your style you may have a little wiggle room in your budget to invest a bit more money into elements such as your wedding attire, personal flowers, and even a nice hotel to stay in for the night! Just don’t forget to use whatever budget you have to secure an amazing photographer, I promise if they’re good you won’t even notice that they are there! Your friends and family will likely be asking for photos so it’s nice to know you’ll be in good hands with an experienced elopement photographer.

Ceremony Plus Romantic Dinner

Some couples want their closest friends and family to be a part of their wedding day and I totally understand. These are typically people who not only have guided you along your way but supported your relationship to where it is today. So, one of the most common ways to celebrate is with a ceremony followed by a romantic and intimate dinner!  If this sounds like you I recommend you start hitting up the thrift stores. Eclectic and vintage pieces are sooo totally in right now and by hunting at a local thrift store you’re likely to find some gems! The coolest part is your plates, flatware, glassware, etc. will be totally unique. If you’re a pro at Goodwill hunting then consider thrifting your wedding attire as well! Find old wedding dresses and suits with patterns and shapes that you’re obsessed with and then flip them into your dream wedding attire! 

Have FUN! 

Ultimately, whatever you are comfortable with spending on your elopement is totally fine. Your wedding day is about your marriage after all! So whether you want to host a reception with close family and friends or just say your vows together your elopement will fit within your budget keeping you and your wallet happy. For a deeper look at planning tips for your elopement, check out Things Couples Forget When Planning an Elopement, on the blog!