Just because you’re not going the traditional wedding route doesn’t mean you can’t have a stylish affair just for two (or a few if you’re bringing friends along!). Planning details like a professional photographer, pretty bouquet and a gourmet spread can help make going to the courthouse feel just as romantic as walking down an aisle. See how to plan a super chic elopement below!
Clockwise from left: Arielle Vey | Kurt Wilberding | Bethany Jeffery Photography | Wojo Image Photography | Heather Waraska Photography
1. A Splurge-Worthy Bouquet
Even if you’re foregoing other traditional floral elements like centerpieces and elaborate wedding arch the bouquet is one arrangement you may want to hang on to for your elopement. A pretty bouquet adds an extra romance factor to photos.
From the album: A Golden Gate Bridge Wedding in San Francisco, CA
2. Chic Separates
Style maven and socialite Olivia Palermo sold us on the low-key separates combo when she got married in an intimate affair this year. It’s the best of both worlds, easy and casual on the top and delicate an feminine on the bottom. Plus, separates are much easier to pack if you’re headed somewhere far-flung.
Shop here: Tulle Skirt and Top, available Fall/Winter 2015, HoughtonNYC.com
3. A Playful Elopement Announcement
Let friends and family know with a playfully worded announcement. Bright colors and a modern font give announcements a festive vibe.
Shop here: Arrows Elopement Announcement, $100/25 cards, UpUpCreative.com
4. A Secluded Ceremony Spot
Think beyond the courthouse and city hall. Once you’ve got your paperwork have a friend or religious officiant do another ceremony in a super romantic and secluded spot like in a forest, the top of a mountain, the gallery of your favorite museum, on a bridge or the beach. Because you don’t have to worry about setting up chairs and decor your options for locations are endless.
From the album: An Intimate Wedding in Driftwood, TX
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5. A Single-Tier Cake With Sugar Flowers
Scale down the traditional wedding cake to a single-tier topped with tons of sugar flowers. Not only do sugar flowers make for amazing photos they last forever and you can save them for a creative keepsake later on.
From the album: A Sugar Pop Styled Shoot at the Palm Court in Chicago, IL
6. Vintage-Style Luggage
If you’re planning to travel for your elopement a perfect gift for each other is a splurge-worthy set of luggage. Steamer-style trunks in a pretty
Shop here: Coral Steamer Luggage, starting at $358, SteamlineLuggage.com
7. A Vespa Getaway Ride
Ride in style on a getaway car that’s quick and nimble like a white Vespa. After you make it official, grab your photographer and zip around town to your favorite landmarks and memorable spots for a fun photo shoot.
From the album: A Tropical Destination Wedding in Bermuda
8. A Gourmet Charcuterie Picnic Spread
We love the idea of finishing off the day with an al fresco lunch or dinner picnic style complete with a charcuterie spread.
From the album: A Beachfront Styled Shoot at Montana de Oro in Los Osos, CA
Want more? Of course you do!
> 7 most wedding-worthy courthouses and city halls
> 5 elopement hot spots
> How to word an elopement announcement
