Image by Matlai Photography.

There are many benefits to choosing a small wedding. A smaller guest list allows for more meaningful interactions with your partner and loved ones in attendance, creating a more personal atmosphere. Opting for a micro wedding or elopement can also significantly reduce your wedding planning tasks. However, that doesn’t always mean planning an intimate affair is easier. There’s still a list of essential tasks you need to complete to achieve your dream wedding, regardless of its size.

If you’re dreaming of an elopement, your planning process will look slightly different from those organizing a large traditional wedding. To help you get started, here’s the only elopement checklist you’ll need for your intimate day.

1. Set a Budget

Before diving head first into wedding planning, you’ll need to have a clear understanding of your wedding budget. This will be key in determining your location, vendors, and so much more! That magic number will help guide your decisions, helping you find options that fit within your financial limits.

Start by sitting down with your partner to discuss your overall budget, and then break it down into categories such as venue, vendors, decor, fashion, etc. If you’re planning a destination wedding, don’t forget to include travel and accommodation. Having a well-defined budget will ensure you can prioritize what matters most to you and make informed choices throughout the planning process.

2. Pick a Location 

Picking a location is a crucial decision for any wedding. Some couples choose to stay local, visit a sentimental place, or take a chance on a new wedding destination altogether. Whether you’re dreaming of running away to Italy or sticking with a meaningful local spot, you need to make this choice before searching for Vendors or venues. Your location will influence everything from your vendor options to travel arrangements, so choose wisely to ensure it aligns with your vision for the big day.

Photo by Anais Possamai Photography. See more of this real elopement here.

3. Choose a Date 

Once you have determined your wedding location, it’s time to secure a date. Your date might be influenced by your desired venue’s availability, but those who plan well in advance will be given more flexibility. This allows you to consider other important factors rather than just picking a random wedding date.

Before finalizing your wedding day, consider your favorite season, weather conditions, and the best time to explore your chosen location. These will help guide your selection process and ensure your special day is all that you’ve dreamed of. 

4. Draft a Guest List while Elopement Planning

Many couples are breaking free from traditional wedding planning rules. And while traditionally, eloping meant just the couple, that’s not necessarily the case anymore. If you want a few close family members and friends to join you on your special day, go for it. Sit down with your partner and make a list of those you can’t imagine your day without. 

Narrowing your guest list to a handful of important people may be easier said than done. If you need help determining who will be invited to celebrate with you on your special day? This guide on how to trim your guest list will help.

5. (If Inviting Guests) Send Out Invitations 

If you’ve decided to invite a handful of people, send out invitations as soon as you’ve secured the date, location, and finalized the guest list. Even with fewer attendees, it’s important to provide them with all the wedding details. Whether you opt for physical invitations or e-vites, send them out months in advance. This is especially important for those planning a celebration abroad to give your guests ample time to prepare.

Photo by Zoe Steindl Photo. See more of this real elopement here.

6. Hire a Professional Photographer and Videographer

When eloping, prioritize hiring a photographer and videographer. Ultimately, the reason you choose an intimate wedding is to focus on what matters most: your love. The last thing you want to worry about is capturing all the memories yourself—leave that to the professionals. These photos and videos will also serve as a keepsake for you and a heartwarming way to share your special moments with loved ones not in attendance.

When researching photographers and videographers, seek out professionals who specialize in elopements. Review their websites, portfolios, social media accounts, and client testimonials as you consider vendors. When you find your dream vendors, hire them immediately, as their expertise will be invaluable throughout your planning process. They’ll be well-prepared, offer useful planning tips and ideas, and know how to capture the swoon-worthy shots you desire. 

7. Finalize Your Vendor Team 

As we’ve mentioned, just because you’re planning a smaller celebration doesn’t make the process any easier. Don’t feel like you need to sacrifice help just because it’s an intimate affair for two. Regardless of your wedding size, hiring a wedding planner is always a good idea—especially for those planning a destination wedding. They can handle the essential details while you relax and enjoy the process.

Additionally, you can collaborate with a florist to create a stunning bouquet or work with a bakery to design your perfect cake. Ultimately, the choices are entirely yours to make.

8. Verify Legal Requirements for Marriage

Marriage requirements will differ based on your wedding location. This is where hiring local, experienced vendors will pay off. They’ll be able to guide you through the legal process to make sure your wedding runs smoothly and you get all the necessary paperwork sorted before saying, ‘I do.’ 

Here are a few things you’ll be expected to take care of before your wedding. While these are just guidelines, you’ll want to check with the country or state you’re tying the knot in for their specific requirements so you don’t miss a thing. 

• You’ll need to get your marriage license within the specified time window for your wedding location.
• Collect all other legal documents you might need, such as birth certificates, affidavits, blood tests, visas, etc.
• Determine whether you need a witness or two before you jet off to tie the knot.
• Ensure you hire an officiant who’s legally authorized to perform the ceremony.

Photo by Sarah Everything Photography. See more of this elopement inspiration here.

9. Secure Necessary Permits and Licenses 

You won’t need to worry about this logistical hurdle if you’re getting married in a venue or on your own private property. But from those getting married in public spaces, like national parks or on the beach, you’re most likely going to need a permit. This can be a lengthy and confusing process. That’s why working with a wedding planner or an elopement photographer who will take care of all of these details for you is an invaluable investment.

10. Book Travel and Accommodations

With all the essential details finalized, it’s time to book your travel and accommodations. If your destination isn’t within driving distance, you’ll need to book those flights. Don’t forget to secure your hotel or Airbnb as well. For international weddings, arranging your flights and accommodations 4-6 months in advance to get the best deals is best.

11. Purchase Wedding Bands 

Wedding bands are symbols of your marriage. Being such an important portion of your ceremony, you’ll want to make sure you try on a variety of different styles and fits to see which catches your eye. This is a detail you’ll want to have sorted months before your big day, leaving room for resizing if necessary. 

From understanding who traditionally pays for them to find the right jeweler, more goes into the decision. To ensure you’re well-equipped with all the information you need to know to get the ring of your dreams, read over our breakdown of everything you need to know about buying and styling wedding bands.

12. Shop for Wedding Outfits 

If you’re looking for ways to involve loved ones in your elopement, shopping for your wedding attire is a perfect opportunity. Whether you dream of a traditional white wedding dress, a colorful suit, or a funky jumpsuit, make sure your outfit and accessories make you feel your best. Remember, when you look back at your photos, you’ll be glad you took the time to choose something that makes you shine.

13. Strategically Pack Wedding Attire  

Planning a destination elopement comes with its own challenges, especially when it comes to packing. Let’s be honest, cramming your precious gown or tux into a suitcase isn’t ideal. So, if you’re planning a wedding that’s not within driving distance, you’ll need to think carefully about how to transport your attire safely and efficiently.

To ensure your wedding outfit arrives safely and on time for your big day, here are a few tips on traveling with your wedding dress.

14. Write Your Vows 

If you’re planning an elopement, you’re likely the type of couple that doesn’t stick to traditional wedding planning boundaries. Odds are you’re dreaming of a celebration that authentically celebrates your love. So, why not read your vows to each other? Handwriting your vows is a sweet and sentimental way to personalize your ceremony. It allows you to express your intimate emotions in your own words, which will make your celebration even more special.

15. Plan a Post Elopement Party 

Now that your celebration is over, you might want to share the joy with family and friends who couldn’t attend. The best way to do this is by planning a post-elopement party. It’s a chance to recount the story of your special day and share your photos and videos. Whether you opt for a laid-back backyard cookout or a lavish celebration, it’s a wonderful way to include everyone in the festivities. 

Though eloping is a small and intimate affair, it doesn’t have to be boring or lack sentiment. There are many ways to turn your elopement, whether local or international, into an ultra-special day. If you’re looking for sweet ways to make your big day unique, check out our roundup of elopement planning ideas that will take your wedding to the next level, ensuring it feels truly special.

Image by Through The Glass.