What would possess a couple to opt for eloping, rather than a conventional wedding? I can't remember how we made that decision, but my husband insists that it was my idea. Having taken that road, with no regrets, mind you, I can underscore the top reasons to skip the frou frou and go straight to the real thing:
Simplicity
Very often the true meaning of marriage gets lost in the trappings of wedding planning. The stress on a couple can be overwhelming and harmful to the relationship. Can you think of a wedding reality show where the parties are completely relaxed and delighting in the wedding planning process? When you've found the love of your life and are ready to begin to live "happily ever after" right now, spending months planning an elaborate wedding that will be over in only a few (very short) hours begins to look less and less appealing. Eloping saves you the time, the headaches and the drama associated with modern wedding planning and allows you to focus on the beauty of your relationship and planning a future together.
Eloping is an investment in your future
Simply put, the money spent on a large wedding can be put to better use towards the dream home, the kids' college fund, the dream honeymoon--you pick!
Intimate weddings can be more meaningful
Elopements and small weddings allow you share with the people who are most important to you and to truly celebrate your union. When you are surrounded by the people who love you and sincerely care about you, your wedding will be inevitably flawless, and you will be able to relax and enjoy your day without having to worry about what people will think or say.
Today's elopement is not about the forbidden love and secret relationships of old romantic novels. It is a respectable option for modern couples who are willing to break free from the establishment and make choices that reflect their priorities and personal values. For us, to elope was the answer.
