Over the years there have been many changes in how an elopement is performed. Traditionally, a couple would head to the nearest court and get married in front of a judge. No fuss, no muss. This was one of the reasons why elopements have not been very popular. Many brides wanted to wear their special dress and get married somewhere beautiful.

The way elopements are done has changed over the years to include more than just a slap-dash ceremony. You can now get married somewhere gorgeous in a private ceremony, with a photographer or videographer recording every special moment.

While many couples may feel like just running off together and getting married, an elopement should be well thought out and considered before a couple embarks on it. Here are some of the general steps required for planning your elopement:

1. Make sure your family and friends know and understand that you and your significant other will be eloping, not having a wedding.
2. Find a location for the ceremony that you both love. Remember, you and your partner are the only people who will attend your wedding, so make sure the location is somewhere you both want to spend your special time together. Some locations – like Youngberg Hill – even offer elopement packages.
3. Work out the wardrobe. Even though you aren’t doing bridesmaids and groomsmen, you will both want to wear something special. 
4. Find a photographer/videographer. Since it’s just you and your partner, you will want plenty of photos and perhaps a video to look back on so you both can share this special day with friends, family, and children. Your elopement location may be able to help you find a great photographer.
5. Incorporate something personal into the ceremony. This elopement is all about your love and partnership, so make sure the ceremony is personal to both of you. You can read vows, toast each other, or write love notes to read to each other after the ceremony.
6. Decide if you will do a post-elopement party. Because your friends and family will not be attending your ceremony, you may want to have a celebration with them before or after the honeymoon. This can be a casual affair or even a party at the same location at which you were married. This way you can insure everyone feels included – without changing your marriage plans.
7. Be sure that whatever you do, it is fun and fitting for your relationship. You two know each other best – so make sure your elopement is performed exactly as you both want.

In the end, the bond you and your partner have is often strengthened by marriage – whether you have a big ceremony or an elopement. Here’s wishing you many happy years together!