Should You Elope Instead of Having a Wedding?
A heartfelt guide for couples craving peace, purpose, and presence
Why This Question Matters
You're engaged. Congratulations—truly.
But as the “So when’s the big day?” questions roll in, something doesn’t feel quite right. The Pinterest boards, the seating charts, the imagined first dance in a room full of people… it’s beautiful, sure—but is it you?
If you’ve ever thought, “What if we just eloped?”—this blog is for you.
Eloping Isn’t “Less Than.” It’s Just Different.
Let’s start with the truth: eloping is not a cop-out. It’s not selfish. It’s not less important or less sacred. Eloping is simply choosing presence over performance, intimacy over itinerary, meaning over expectation.
And in Maine—where mountains meet sea and the fog rolls in like poetry—you can have a ceremony that feels cinematic and deeply grounded.
Ask Yourself: Why Am I Leaning Toward Eloping?
There’s no wrong reason—but understanding your “why” can bring clarity. Consider the following:
🌀 You feel anxious at the thought of being the center of attention
🕊 You value privacy, nature, and emotional depth
💸 You’d rather invest in your honeymoon or future than a one-day event
✨ You want the freedom to say your vows without a crowd
⏳ You’ve had a long journey to get here—and you just want simplicity
🖤 You crave something original, something that reflects your bond, not tradition
If you nodded yes to most of these, eloping might be your way of honoring who you are—and how you love.
Let’s Break It Down: Elopement vs. Wedding
🎈 The Energy
Wedding: Celebration, structure, lots of people, tradition
Elopement: Intimacy, intention, stillness, presence
📝 The Planning
Wedding: Guest lists, timelines, vendors, rentals, décor, RSVPs
Elopement: Location, photographer, attire, vows, (maybe a florist or stylist)
💸 The Budget
Wedding: National average is $30–40k+
Elopement: Anywhere from $2,000–$15,000+ depending on travel, vendors, and extras
🎥 The Documentation
Wedding: A day to share with many
Elopement: A story told in photographs—deep, editorial, cinematic, true
But Will We Regret Not Having a Wedding?
This is the most vulnerable question—and it’s a valid one.
Here’s how to approach it:
If you’re mourning a party you think you “should” want, but you’ve never actually wanted it—you won’t regret eloping.
If you're craving connection with your partner, not performance for others—you won’t regret eloping.
If the only reason you’d plan a wedding is to avoid disappointing others—that’s not your dream to carry.
Still worried? Consider an elopement now, and a casual celebration or dinner party later. There are no rules.
What You Gain By Eloping
🌿 Space to breathe
📸 Photos that reflect real emotion, not a schedule
🕊 A ceremony focused only on your love
💍 A beginning that feels as intentional as your relationship
🤍 Time alone—without pressure, noise, or chaos
What You Might Miss from a Traditional Wedding
Yes, eloping means letting go of certain things. Be honest with yourself:
Dancing with everyone you love
Family toasts
The “big reveal” down the aisle
A full guest list and memories made with friends
If these are deeply important to you—consider a micro-wedding instead.
What I See as an Elopement Photographer in Maine
Couples tell me again and again:
“This is the first time I’ve breathed deeply in months.”
There’s something about the Maine air. The wildness. The unfiltered quiet. It creates space to be human again. To cry without worrying about mascara. To kiss slowly without someone yelling to look at the camera. To get married without needing to perform.
When I photograph elopements, I’m not just capturing how you look. I’m witnessing how you feel. I guide gently. I hold space. I honor what’s sacred.
Alternatives to Consider
You don’t have to choose one or the other. Consider:
A private elopement followed by a backyard celebration later
An adventure elopement with just your immediate family present
A sunrise ceremony followed by a brunch or boat ride
A Maine coast elopement with a weekend stay at an Airbnb for two
Final Thought: Your Day, Your Way
Whether you elope on a mountain or marry in a ballroom, your wedding day should feel like a reflection of your truth—not anyone else’s expectations. If the thought of eloping brings relief, joy, calm, or even tears—you’re already closer to clarity than you realize.
Begin the Journey With Me
🗓 Inquire About Your Elopement Date
Let’s create something honest. Beautiful. Grounded in love.
And completely you.
