Planning Your Enotah Valley Elopement
A big wedding isn't for everyone. There are many reasons couples choose to forgo a large wedding and opt in favor of an elopement or micro wedding. An elopement can be a truly special and memorable event and a great alternative to a large scale wedding. This smaller, more intimate type of ceremony has less fuss than a larger gathering but there will still be some advance planning to do to ensure you have the wedding day of your dreams. To learn more about what is included in Enotah Valley’s Elopement package, click here.
The following is a guide on what to consider when planning your elopement at Enotah Valley.
CREATE A VISION FOR YOUR WEDDING DAY
What is most important to you and your fiancée when it comes to your wedding day? Getting married is the ultimate goal, but what means most to you for your day - photography, flowers, having your family present? Knowing what to prioritize on your wedding day will help you as you plan.
PICK YOUR DATE
When you picture your special day do you have in mind the season you prefer? Do you want warmer temperatures with lush greenery? Do you want fall foliage with a crispness in the air or springtime with new growth and budding flowers? Determining the time of year you envision your wedding will help you choose a date and further the planning process.
DETERMINE YOUR BUDGET
Elopements are less expensive than larger weddings but there are still costs to consider. Decide how much you are willing to spend, determine your priorities and this budget will guide the rest of your planning process. The following are common expenses to keep in mind. You will likely not need to budget for every one of these items, just choose the ones that are most important to you.
Elopement photographer
Transportation (flights, rental car, parking, etc.)
Airbnb or a place to stay
Florist
Makeup trial (if any)
Hair & Makeup Artist
Baker
Officiant
Videographer
Wedding rings
Permits and fees for marriage license
Additional details such as stationary, invitations, thank you cards
Food, snacks, drinks
Dress and/or Tux Rentals/Purchases
MAKE YOUR GUEST LIST
Your Enotah Valley elopement package includes room for up to 15 special guests in addition to the bride and groom. Decide with your fiancée the guests you would like to invite and determine how you plan to invite them to your special day. You have options such as formal invitations, email, word of mouth, or even some free wedding planning websites where you can manage and track your guest list.
HIRE YOUR ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER
Usually the first vendor you want to hire is your photographer. Many photographers fill their calendars a year or more ahead of time so hiring the right fit for you early in your planning process is recommended. Find someone you feel comfortable around since you will be working closely with them planning your dream day.
HIRE REMAINING VENDORS
In addition to a photographer, you may want to hire other vendors to bring your vision to life. Some typical vendors include:
videographer
hair and makeup stylist
florist
officiant
baker
RESEARCH MARRIAGE LICENSING
It is important to do your research on what is required for you to make your marriage official. Do you need an appointment to pick up your marriage license? Is there a waiting period? What documents do you need to apply for the license? What are the officiant requirements? Having these questions answered well ahead of your elopement day will ensure no unfortunate surprises.
BOOK YOUR TRAVEL ACCOMODATIONS
Whether you are traveling from nearby or a distance away you will need to arrange your transportation. Also consider overnight accommodations prior to your wedding day and after the event. Keep in mind that certain times of the year are busier than others and short term cabin or Airbnb rentals can book up quickly. Having your transportation and accommodations booked early will give you peace of mind as the day gets closer.
PLAN ATTIRE AND OTHER DETAILS
Once you've decided what time of year you'll be getting married you can search for your perfect wedding attire. In addition to your wedding outfits you will want to decide on purchasing wedding rings and any other special details you want included in your day.
PLAN YOUR ELOPEMENT CEREMONY
This is your wedding day and a time for you and your spouse-to-be to make it reflect your love and personalities. Whether it be through music, florals, or a loved one reading a poem or scripture, discuss what special touches you want to include in your ceremony to make it uniquely yours.
When all the dreaming, planning and anticipation is done and your elopement day arrives, the next step is to relax and enjoy your day. Soak in every moment of this time you have with your loved ones in a beautiful place focusing on the two of you and your lifetime commitment to one another. Congratulations!