In my last blog, I wrote about how Gen Z are breaking boundaries and redefining the modern wedding. One of the key ways in which this is happening is through small-scale destination weddings. These are probably my favourite type of wedding to shoot, so they just had to get their very spot on the blog. From the black sand beaches of Iceland to a vintage villa in Lake Como, each time I think I’ve done just about every destination a lovely couple like you throws me a wicked curveball and turns me into a human version of the heart-eyes emoji. So, if you and your sweetheart are considering eloping abroad, here’s why it could be the perfect choice!
what's the history?
When some people hear “elopement” they instantly think of lovers stealing off to Gretna Green at sunrise to marry in secret. Historically, elopements were carried out by couples who were often unable to wed in the usual manner due to the disapproval of their families, or strict laws in their hometown. Nowadays, of course, “elopement” is just a fancy term given to an intimate wedding away from your home turf, but isn’t it wonderful to think about the romance and drama of two star-crossed lovers throwing caution to the wind and running away to get married without needing the approval of anyone else? If that doesn’t scream “I want to be with you forever!” then I don’t know what does.
creating intimacy
By definition, elopements are the exact opposite of the big white wedding. Think you, your spouse-to-be, a celebrant and a luxury wedding photographer (hey, guys). Maybe a handful of essential guests if you’re really pushing the boat out. At bigger weddings, it’s so easy for the meaning to get lost and for it to become all about the frills. This day is about you and the person you love most in the world making a commitment to love and stand by each other forever. That’s it. When you come right down to it, it’s really quite simple. So why not keep it simple? Create intimacy without scrimping on luxury by just scaling everything else down. Think of it like drowning out the background noise until it’s just you and your partner in one moment of pure connection. Bliss.
the financials..
With a big wedding comes a big price tag. Of course with a destination wedding you may pay a little bit more for travel, but the gorgeous surroundings (plus the money you save on a venue, food, wedding party outfits, favours etc.) will make it completely worth it. Imagine starting your married life without having to remortgage. Imagine starting your married life feeling like you can actually afford a mortgage. All you need is two plane tickets (well, three… I’ll take an aisle seat), the clothes that make you feel top dollar and a celebrant willing to do the deed. If you want more, you can have more, but even with the bare minimum your gallery will be giving ultimate romance vibes.
Feel Blessed, Not Stressed
Funny how stress and money always seem to follow each other. Anyone would think they’re related. In addition to saving a huge amount of money, by planning an intimate elopement you’ll also save yourself a huge amount of stress. Just imagine: no enormous guest list, no RSVPs to chase, no scary table plan, no endless list of suppliers asking for payment… background noise, remember? You deserve to spend your wedding day feeling chilled out and in love, not mad stressed that Auntie Shirley’s been given the chicken when you know she’s a pescatarian. Choose relaxation and serenity. Choose your peace of mind.
The Personal Touch
By making the day just about the two of you, you can really make the day just about the two of you. Maybe you want to go on a sunset adventure to the waterfall where you got engaged. Maybe you’ve always talked about opening a vineyard in Tuscany. Maybe you want Vegas but classy Vegas (leave the blue shoes in the rack, Elvis, take the night off!). You’ve got the freedom to decide what represents the two of you best. When people talk about the personal touch at weddings, it’s easy to have visions of handmade decorations, custom signs and M&Ms with the couple’s names on (no judgement), but what better personalisation could there be than a wedding that is so totally and completely you. By you, for you.
Well? Have I convinced you yet? Maybe you didn’t even need convincing in the first place and I’m just hyping you up right now. Either way, I can promise you that an intimate elopement to the destination of your choice will be something that you’ll never regret. If you want your wedding gallery to ooze romance and adventure then don’t hesitate. Book your date in with me and then… Book. Those. Tickets.
Danielle x
