5 Essential Tips for a Successful Elopement

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At Happily Ever Elopements, we believe elopements aren’t about doing less — they’re about choosing more of what truly matters to you. An elopement is a meaningful milestone of shared love and an opportunity to design your wedding day around your relationship, rather than outside expectations.

Whether you’re dreaming of celebrating with close family, beloved pets, or just the two of you, we’re here to thoughtfully bring your vision together — exactly as you imagine it (and then some).

Based on our experience coordinating 130+ weddings and elopements since 2021, here are our top five tips for creating an elopement day that feels intentional, joyful, and deeply personal.

1. Start With Your “Why” for Eloping

Why are you choosing to elope? How do you want your day to feel — peaceful, adventurous, intimate, romantic, affordable, or deeply personal?

When your intentions are clear, decision-making becomes much easier. Defining your “why” ensures your plans are guided by your values and vision, rather than expectations from others. This clarity allows you to fully customize an elopement experience that feels aligned and meaningful from start to finish.

2. Choose a Location That Supports You

A stunning backdrop is important, but the right elopement location also supports comfort, flow, and emotional presence. When selecting your setting, consider:

• Accessibility and travel logistics

• Privacy and crowd levels

• Seasonal weather and natural lighting

• Permit requirements and local regulations

The best locations don’t just photograph beautifully — they allow you to relax, connect, and fully immerse yourselves in the moment. Have questions about local spots in Wilmington, NC? Ask away! We’d love to help you narrow in on a location that truly feels like you.

3. Create Spaciousness in Your Timeline

One of the greatest gifts of an elopement or micro-wedding is time — time to breathe, slow down, and savor the day. Together, we’ll craft a thoughtful timeline that weaves in the elements that matter most to you while leaving room to truly cherish the experience.

A well-paced elopement timeline allows space for:

• Getting ready with intention — sharing quiet moments, enjoying the details, and feeling un-rushed

• A present ceremony — beginning with a deep breath, taking your time with vows, and savoring eye contact

• Time together — whether that means photos, jumping in the ocean, honoring a family tradition, or creating a new one, with room for spontaneity

• A meaningful celebration — from a beach picnic or champagne toast to dinner at your favorite spot, make sure you celebrate this milestone

4. Invest in Your Vendors

Elopements benefit from a team with a specialized skill set. The vendors you choose should feel comfortable working in intimate settings, outdoor environments, and sometimes unpredictable conditions — all while keeping the experience calm and supported.

At Happily Ever Elopements, we thoughtfully collaborate with trusted local professionals who share our values of intentionality, artistry, and genuine care. Consider your vendor team your support system — there to uplift you so you can fully enjoy your day.

Not sure where to start? Choose the top three to four elements you’d most like to invest in, and build from there.

5. Personalize Your Experience

Dream big when it comes to the details. Elopements give you the freedom to choose meaning intentionally. The most memorable elopements often include personal touches such as:

• Private, heartfelt vows

• Attire that expresses who you are

• Symbolic rituals (rooted in tradition or starting with you)

• Vibrant flowers and décor

• A shared adventure or experience

• A celebratory meal or moment just for the two of you

In Short...

Embrace your elopement as an opportunity to invest in what matters most. Breathe in the big moments and the quiet details, and don’t be afraid to communicate your unique vision. We can’t wait to be inspired by your dream elopement and help bring it to life.

— Happily Ever Elopements