For some, eloping is the preferred method of getting married. In recent years, foregoing a formal wedding and instead choosing a scaled-down elopement ceremony has increased in popularity. These ceremonies may consist of a smaller gathering of loved ones, foreign destinations or simply including only the engaged couple. Eloping can help simplify the complications of family travel and expensive ceremonies. With the costs of traditional wedding ceremonies skyrocketing, eloping can be the ideal way to jump the broom with a more affordable or convenient celebration.
While eloping is non-traditional, that does not mean couples have to compromise their vision for the special day. A simpler, and perhaps smaller, marriage ceremony can also mean a more special and tailored experience. Deciding the perfect place to elope is an important part of setting the tone for the celebration.
With less fuss to be concerned about, couples can get creative with their elopement location abroad. A romantic ceremony with a dreamy backdrop can be had with ease by couples who want to elope and finally make the ultimate commitment to their partner.
Couples should remember to research their destination’s regulations regarding eloping or hire a professional consulting company since they may be required to complete more paperwork.
These stunning locations around the world are the best places to elope and enjoy your memorable day!
Best Places to Elope in Major Cities
Being in close proximity to big cities when getting married means couples will have loads of options for venues and accommodations. If guests are a part of the elopement celebration, couples will not have to worry about entertaining their family and friends. Before and after the big day, guests can explore local attractions and may be able to use public transit.
Las Vegas Is One of the Best Places To Elope
Las Vegas has a reputation as the location for quick and legal weddings. Elvis officiants and drive through wedding chapels may be a good fit for adventurous couples who are ready to tie the knot in showy ways. If a more classic wedding is ideal, Vegas has plenty of options and entertainment choices for visiting elopers.
To elope in Las Vegas, bring along proof of identity (either passport, driver’s license or social security card), pay for a marriage license (which costs around $77 in cash, credit card, cashier’s check, money order or traveler’s check) and bring the downloaded marriage license application from the county’s website.
Paris Is a Hot Spot for Romantic Weddings
The city of light (and romance) is a great place to have an intimate wedding and afterward experience a renowned travel destination. Couples can select places like the Eiffel Tower or Luxembourg Gardens to have their ceremony. The breathtaking backdrop of Paris might as well be a free venue as well. With few guests, a reception should be a breeze. Paris is a culinary paradise, so couples will not struggle with finding cuisine to enjoy after their celebration.
Couples will only need a valid I.D. or passport, birth certificate, at least two witnesses and an optional prenuptial agreement. Unlike some destinations, the legal ceremony always occurs in the town hall. Additional documentation may be necessary.
Barcelona Will Add a Little Spice to Your Wedding Ceremony
This cosmopolitan city is renowned for its panoramic views and historic Mediterranean style. Couples can book extravagant villas and get a taste of pure paradise. Saying “I do” in a venue in Barcelona is sure to be a breath of fresh air.
Couples will find that legal requirements vary by the type of ceremony they want to have. Legally eloping in Spain with a religious or civil ceremony is not an option for non-residents, but if one partner is a Spanish national, there are exceptions. Couples often have symbolic ceremonies/elopement celebrations in Spain and legally wed in their home country.
Serene Destinations Are Great for Elopement Ceremonies
Couples who prefer a more secluded or intimate ceremony for themselves and their guests can choose between destinations that offer more private venues and areas.
Tulum Is A Luxury Destination For Intimate Weddings
Tulum, Mexico is a popular tourism destination and a great place to elope, especially if photo ops are a high priority. Although this location is popular during peak travel seasons, it can also be a coastal oasis for couples looking to have their honeymoon at the same location as their wedding ceremony.
With sandy beaches and warm weather, dazzling cenotes and plenty of ancient Mayan ruins to tour, Tulum is a central location for a destination wedding. To elope in Tulum, couples should be prepared to do ample research and bring their birth certificate, a valid passport, a valid Mexican tourist permit and marriage application forms retrieved from the local registry office.
Elope in the Classic Italian Dolomites
The Dolomites is a sleepy region close to Florence and Tuscany that has majestic mountains, unique activities and a warm community. The northern Italy mountain ranges are a beautiful backdrop for photography and are lesser known, so couples can expect less tourist traffic. There is an abundance of natural scenic views that are ideal for nature lovers that will make for epic elopement photos.
Couples need to bring their passports, birth certificates, evidence of end of previous marriage (divorce or death certificates), Nulla Osta (the certificate of permission to get married in Italy) and the marriage declaration from the hall in Italy where the couple intends to wed.
These 3 US Virgin Islands Are Perfect for Eloping Couples
If the appeal of a United States territory is too convenient to pass up, try one of the Virgin Islands. The U.S. Virgin Islands are made up of St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix and are all filled with white beaches and aqua blue waters.
The process to get married is quite simple, with couples only needing to apply online for a marriage license via the local court and waiting for the application to be inspected by local authorities. After a waiting period of approximately eight days, couples will need to appear before the Clerk of the Court before their marriage license is issued. These offices are located in St. Croix and St. Thomas, so couples can enjoy sightseeing the islands while on their elopement trip.