You're neck deep in to your wedding planning and the drama keeps coming: your maid of honor hates her dress...your mom hates your dress...and somehow your guest list has doubled. The wheels are in motion with deposits paid and decisions made. But a courthouse elopement sounds like a dream right now. Should you go for it? Will you regret it?
A healthy elopement happens when both people in the relationship want to focus on getting married. Often, emphasis gets placed on the wedding while the marriage gets put on the back burner. Everyone is so wrapped up in the party, they lose sight of the commitment both people at getting in to. If you're focused on getting hitched and less concerned about the party, an elopement might be a good bet. You'll you save yourself the stress of planning and the financial investment.
Yet many brides and grooms enjoy celebrating with their friends and family. For them, the more, the merrier! Even if you elope, you can have a reception later. But some brides feel like it's "not the same." If that's you, consider having a smaller wedding. It will cut back on the budget and the intensity of the occasion.
If family drama is the reason for wanting to elope, it might be time for a chat with your parents, siblings, or anyone else driving you crazy. Let them know that you respect their opinions but that your wedding day is going to be about you, your fiancée, and the things you both love. You may experience some blow-back for standing up for yourself, but those who love you will respect your boundaries.
Wedding planning can be stressful, but it shouldn't make you sick or lose sleep. If it is, it's time to reevaluate your priorities. It might be time to cut down on the DIY projects or drop things that are causing you anxiety. Ask for help if you need it. Hire a planner if you can. Do what you need to do to keep your sanity.
Still feel like a court house celebration is calling? You're in luck! There's no wrong way to get married. At the end of the day, as long as you've followed the legal protocols of your state, a marriage is a marriage! Rules and traditions shouldn't stop you from having the wedding day of your dreams - whether that's in a fancy ball room or on the steps of city hall.
We know there's a lot of opinions about whether to elope...tell us yours in the comments below!
We didn't elope, but neither of us wanted a big wedding. We had both watched friends and family members go through all the stress of getting ready for a wedding and we wanted no part of it. We were living in Washington, DC at the time and we came out here and met up with a few family members for our wedding at Excalibur. We even wore king and queen costumes! It was so fun! After our 8 minute wedding, we all went to the Dragon Noodle restaurant in the Monte Carlo. No stress, no mess, mo muss, no fuss. I would do it again in a heartbeat!
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like a great time! Every couple should have a wedding that is special and memorable to them.
Delete