Elope or ceremony?

We eloped in Hawaii this past Halloween with just us two and it was absolutely FABULOUS!! But prior to making that change, we had an entire wedding planned that we canceled (losing a few thousand in deposits and other purchases). So, I understand both sides. But If you’re seeking a less expensive route, then eloping (or having an intimate wedding with about 10 guests) is perfect!

Eloping this year, then doing a vow renewal or reception next year sounds great!


We did a micro DW (pre Covid) then a larger local reception a few months later. Worked great for our budget (and for most of our guests who attended the local celebration).

If budget is a concern then eloping sooner and having a bigger shindig later has the advantage of avoiding the wedding premium added onto everything, since it would be more like a vow renewal.

We got legally married in November, literally just signed papers at the courthouse, and are having our ceremony and reception in March 2023. We've told the important people in our lives like family and a few close friends, but otherwise arent really advertising it. If people find out, fine, but I'm not going by my husbands last name until the wedding anyway for ease of things at work and we just dont want to answer questions as to why we did what we did.

Lots of people I know are going this route and its working well for us. We still get the full real wedding experience, but we get the financial and legal benefits a little earlier.