How to Save Money on Your Elopement Without Sacrificing the Experience
Elopements offer couples a unique and intimate way to celebrate their love, often focusing on travel, adventure, and the beauty of the surroundings. While elopements can be more cost-effective than traditional weddings, there are still ways to save money without compromising on the experience! Here are some tips for couples looking to prioritize adventure and beauty while being mindful of their budget.
1. Choose a Non-Traditional Venue
Opting for a non-traditional venue can significantly reduce costs. Consider national parks, beaches, or even your favourite hiking trail as your ceremony location. These places often have lower permit fees compared to traditional wedding venues, and they provide stunning natural backdrops.
2. Travel During the Off-Season
Traveling during the off-season can save you money on flights, accommodations, and even some venue fees. Research your chosen destination to find the best times to visit when prices are lower, but the weather is still suitable for your plans.
3. Limit the Guest List
One of the most significant advantages of eloping is the ability to have a small, intimate ceremony. By keeping your guest list short, you save on food, drinks, and accommodation costs, allowing you to allocate more of your budget towards experiences and adventure.
4. Hire a Local Elopement Photographer
Hiring a local elopement photographer can save you on travel and accommodation costs for your photographer. Plus, local photographers are often familiar with the best spots for breathtaking photos and can provide insider tips for your destination.
Looking for a New Zealand based elopement photographer? Say hi! :)
5. DIY Where You Can
Consider DIY options for some aspects of your elopement. For example, you can create your own bouquet, design your invitations, or even bake a small wedding cake if baking is something you enjoy! DIY projects can add a personal touch to your day and help you save money.
6. Prioritise Experiences Over Extras
When planning your elopement, focus on the experiences that matter most to you. Whether it’s a helicopter ride to a remote location, a private dinner under the stars, or a guided hike, prioritising these unique moments can help you create unforgettable memories without the need for costly extras like elaborate decorations or rented furniture.
7. Rent or Borrow Attire
Instead of purchasing brand new wedding attire, consider renting or borrowing. This can be especially beneficial for the groom’s suit or the bride’s dress, which are often only worn once. Many rental services offer high-quality options at a fraction of the cost. Check out Jessica for an Auckland based option!
8. Use Digital Invitations
Save on printing and postage costs by sending digital invitations. There are many beautiful and customizable options available online, allowing you to create elegant invites that can be sent via email or social media.
9. Take Advantage of All-Inclusive Packages
Some destinations and venues offer all-inclusive elopement packages that cover everything from the ceremony location to photography and officiant services. These packages can provide excellent value and simplify the planning process. Just be mindful of the photography coverage as they may only offer a couple of hours! (I offer 6 hours as my base, because, well, wouldn’t you want to capture as much of your big day as possible??)
10. Embrace Minimalism
Elopements naturally lend themselves to a more minimalist approach. Embrace this by focusing on what truly matters to you as a couple. This could mean fewer decorations, a smaller (or no) cake, or opting out of traditional wedding elements that don’t align with your vision.
Conclusion
Saving money on your elopement doesn’t mean sacrificing the beauty and significance of your day. Remember, the essence of an elopement is about celebrating your love in a way that feels authentic to you, so focus on what will make your day special and memorable.
Looking for a New Zealand based elopement photographer? Get in touch and tell me your love story!
