Small and intimate vs. Grand and lavish: How to decide between a wedding vs elopement

When it comes to planning your big day, the choice between an elopement and a wedding can be a tough one. Both options offer unique benefits and come with their own set of considerations. From the overall experience, cost, and family and societal expectations – there are many factors to consider when deciding whether to elope or have a traditional celebration. Let’s dive into the subject of a wedding vs elopement, and help you decide what is right for your romantic tale.

What are the differences?

The main difference between wedding vs elopement is the number of guests. An elopement typically has 20 guests or fewer, while weddings can have anywhere from 50 to 200 or more guests.

For instance, a wedding usually includes a ceremony with a formal exchange of vows in front of a group of family and friends, followed by a reception with food, music, and dancing. On the other hand, an elopement is a much more intimate affair where the couple chooses to marry secretly or with only a few close family or friends present. They are usually smaller and more low-key than normal weddings.

When it comes to planning time, big betrothals often require more preparation than elopements. Creating seating charts, organizing meals for a large group, and selecting entertainment are all things that couples typically oversee in a traditional wedding. However, they are not necessary for an elopement. Part of the “running off together” vibe is the ability to be planned in a matter of days or even hours – depending on the location, date, and guest count.

Another main difference is the venues. Why elope? Well, one of the best things about elopements is that they offer more flexibility and can be held in various locations – from mountain tops and cliffside beaches to historic landmarks, urban spots, and local parks. As Greenville SC wedding photographers, we love that! True, there are various venues for normal celebrations, but weddings normally require more structure and are often held in SC wedding venues that can accommodate a larger guest list and reception.

Not all weddings and not all elopements are the same

Elopement is usually an intimate affair attended by the couple and their closest witnesses, or it can be a more adventurous experience with a small group of guests in a beautiful and remote location. The beautiful thing about elopements is that they can be whatever you want them to be, especially destination-wise. Alone or with a small group, choose whatever is right for your story! For example, you can plan a charming elopement in Charleston SC, then celebrate with a handful of guests somewhere you like!

A big celebration involves a larger guest list and often includes a formal ceremony and reception where food is served, accompanied by music and partying. But of course, not all weddings are the same. For example, you can have a micro wedding with 20-50 guests, a small yet meaningful one with up to 100, or even a lavish one with 1000 of your friends and family! In the end, it all comes down to what you two prefer as a couple.

Which one is more cost-effective?

The cost is another significant difference between elopement vs wedding. Large gatherings can be quite expensive, with the average cost in the US being over $33,000. The cost per person can range from $150 to $200, including the venue, decorations, food, drinks, and entertainment. If you have always dreamed of having a big celebration with all your loved ones, a traditional wedding may be the right choice for you. In short – the more guests you invite, the more costly it will be.

As a wedding photographer in Columbia SC , we can safely say that elopements are usually cost-efficient. The average cost of a remote ceremony organized by a company is around $1000. This is due to the smaller guest list and less need for structure and organization. However, this does not mean an elopement ceremony is any less meaningful or special. Having a ceremony for just the two of you can be a deeply personal, beautiful, and intimate experience – and many couples celebrate with a party or reception afterward.

Both normal weddings and elopements have their own unique benefits

Weddings let the couple celebrate their love with a large group of loved ones and can be a way to honor their families and cultural traditions. An elopement, on the other hand, can be a more intimate and spontaneous way for a couple to start their lives together, free from the stress and pressure that can often come with planning a large wedding.

Both ways of getting married are fit to celebrate the commitment and love of a couple, and the right choice between a wedding vs elopement ultimately depends on the couple's preferences and individual circumstances.

Did you love reading about a wedding vs elopement? Then you will find more tips on location and planning in the other blogs on our site. Whether you wish to elope or have a big celebration, the most important thing is that you and your partner are happy and excited to start your lives together!

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