One of the absolute best things about being a second-time bride or groom is the benefit of hindsight. And for many, that hindsight tells you that while a formal wedding and reception with all the trimmings can be a wonderful occasion, it’s also one that can be fraught with stress. This could stem from old family divisions, the inherent challenge of matching your dreams to your financial limitations, or simply the sheer amount of organization that a wedding requires.
Stress and money are just two reasons that many couples are choosing the elopement route. While a quick and easy signing of papers at the county courthouse may seem terribly unromantic, nothing could be further from the truth. After all, saving thousands if not tens of thousands of dollars by foregoing a wedding opens up a world of other possibilities of how to celebrate your nuptials. Of course, how you spend this savings (or if you spend it at all) is up to you, but here are a few ideas for an elopement to remember.
Climb that Mountain or Raft that River
Are you and your partner adventurous types? Pick an epic location that you’ve always dreamed of visiting and start planning the journey of a lifetime. Whether this means hiking the Appalachian Trail, whitewater rafting through the Grand Canyon, or climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro, nothing is as mentally freeing or creates a stronger bond than stepping away from the modern world and getting back to nature. Is there anything more romantic than staring up at millions of stars in a night sky unspoiled by light pollution?
Discover How the Other Half Lives
If you love to fantasize about a life of luxury, wouldn’t it be nice to turn that into reality, just for this one occasion? If there was ever a time to splurge, taking your wedding budget and spending it on a vacation to remember would be it. Whether you go for one of the world’s best resorts according to Condé Nast, St. Barts, or Bali, make sure you set some funds aside to look and feel like a member of the jet set crew. How glamorous will you be in a pair of designer shades while lounging poolside with a cocktail in hand? The best bit is, it actually doesn’t have to cost a fortune to look like a million bucks. If you know the right place to look, even Prada might be in your price point. With a little creativity and resourcefulness, the honeymoon to end all honeymoons can be a much more relaxing beginning to a happy marriage than an expensive wedding.
Spread the Joy
Maybe you and your future spouse are more the practical types. Or perhaps you have real-life realities that are far more important to you, like a child about to enter the college years or building for a comfortable retirement. Taking your wedding budget to a financial planner could be the foundation for a college fund, a retirement plan, or even just a way to save for weekend getaways. Since financial stress is one of the leading marital conflicts, why not get your partnership onto the steadiest financial footing right from the get-go? That’s pretty romantic if you ask us.
Still on the fence about eloping? Family and friends pressuring you to throw a party? You can always have a reception later!
