This year more than ever, we see couples shifting their large weddings to smaller, more intimate celebrations, sometimes even forgoing the big celebration and eloping instead. If you find yourself creating a “Plan B” wedding day due to COVID-19 or other circumstances, we want to encourage you with a few ideas on how to make your celebration meaningful.

It can still be you. It can still be special and fun. And it can still be magical. We’re sharing 5 Ideas for Creating a Meaningful Elopement here, and if there’s something else you’re still unsure about, just shoot us an email (hello@erinfoxphoto.com). We’re happy to help!

 

Invite only family and close friends.

Plan a bigger celebration or an “after party” at another time and let all other guests know you still want to celebrate with them. Invite your closet family and friends – they will be so happy to join you in a more intimate setting. You’ll look back on the day and remember sharing it with your most special people.. and there’s nothing sweeter.

Choose a meaningful and/or unique location.

Maybe your venue can no longer host your wedding, but that doesn’t mean you have to go running to the courthouse. (But courthouse weddings are so fun, too!) Reach out to public parks, small event venues, coffee shops or bars – a lot of these places will host smaller events if requested ahead of time. Or if you have a friend or family member with an amazing backyard, don’t be afraid to elope there! Backyard weddings are so much fun. Get creative – you don’t need anything elaborate to get married!

Splurge on beautiful florals and photography.

Chances are, a lot of the other costs of having a bigger wedding have been cut. If you’re able to, splurge on beautiful florals and photography. Here’s why: your flowers can elevate any space and make your wedding feel more personal with your favorite colors and blooms. Splurge on a bridal bouquet, too! And of course, invest in a good wedding photographer that can capture the essence of your intimate elopement. You’ll want to have those moments to cherish for the rest of time!

Write your own vows.

Choosing to elope instead of having a large wedding allows you to focus more on your love, your guests, and your vows. Consider writing your own vows and reciting them in place of traditional wedding vows. Your ceremony will feel so much more personal and special.

Host a post-elopement dinner party.

Just because you elope doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate! After you’ve said your I-dos, consider hosing a small dinner-party with your family. With a smaller headcount, you can dine-in at your favorite restaurant (or order takeout to eat at home!), or all gather around one large table in a backyard, dinning room, etc. Cheers!

Erin Fox Photo is a husband and wife photography team based in Nashville, Tennessee photographing weddings and engagements. Available for travel in Middle Tennessee and beyond.