Traditional Wedding vs. Elopement: How to Decide
We understand that you're currently in a state of post-engagement bliss. It's a truly exciting time, but soon the overwhelming task of planning a wedding can take over. As a newly engaged couple, the first major decision you'll have to make is what kind of wedding you want to have. It’s a big decision to make especially in the age of modern elopements, do you go traditional and big or keep it small and intimate? It’s important to take some time to sit down with your partner and talk through which route is best for you as a couple. There is nothing worse than watching a couple plan a traditional wedding when they would have rather eloped and vice versa. That’s why we’re here to offer some guidance on the differences between traditional weddings and elopements, as well as some pros and cons of each.
Photography: WhatMiaSaw Photography
One of the biggest and most obvious differences between traditional weddings and elopements is the guest count. Elopements are intimate affairs with only a few, if any, guests, while traditional weddings can have upwards of 200 guests. With elopements, the couple can enjoy plenty of privacy on their special day and have unlimited time together without having to split their attention between hundreds of loved ones. Traditional weddings, can be an incredible experience, however these weddings are tremendously affected by their guest count. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing; it is just a byproduct of this type of wedding. Spending time catching up with 250 loved ones and taking family portraits with everyone from Grandma June to second cousin twice removed Kathy can eat into time spent with your spouse. So, the question to ask yourself is: Would you prefer a more private time with your partner on your wedding day, or would you rather spend your time mingling and celebrating with all the people who love and support you.
Elopements offer couples the opportunity to simplify and focus on what really matters to them, without feeling the pressure to conform to traditional wedding expectations. This means that couples can skip the "fluff" of large weddings, such as elaborate floral arrangements and extensive guest lists, which can drastically reduce the cost of the event. On the other hand, traditional weddings are perfect for couples who enjoy celebrating with a large group of loved ones. For those who want to wear the dress of their dreams, be surrounded by beautiful decorations, and exchange vows in a grand setting, a big wedding is the way to go. Ultimately, the decision between elopement and traditional wedding comes down to personal preference and what is most important to each individual couple.
It’s no hidden secret that when you have a traditional wedding, you’re choosing to put yourself in the spotlight for hours on end. If you love to be celebrated with all eyes on you and filling your day with loved ones floods your heart with happiness than a large wedding is the perfect occasion to do just that. If you're a couple who dislikes attention and finds the idea of being in the spotlight overwhelming, an elopement may be the perfect fit for you.
Elopements offer couples more flexibility with their wedding day schedule due to the minimalism of the event. This allows for spontaneity and the ability to incorporate any and everything the couple wants to do on their special day. Traditional weddings, on the other hand, require a strict schedule due to the focus on adhering to certain customs and traditions. Although eight hours may seem like plenty of time for a wedding day, it can quickly become a tight squeeze when factoring in getting ready, taking pictures, the ceremony, cocktail hour, and all of the necessary reception events, such as first dances, speeches, food, and cake cutting.
Photography: Hannah Rob Photography
Now that you can pinpoint the key differences between traditional weddings and elopements let’s talk about how to choose the right wedding for you? Here is a little experiment: close your eyes and picture your wedding day. What do you see? Are you standing hand-in-hand with your partner reciting your vows, looking out at the smiling and teary-eyed faces of your loved ones or are you standing hand-in-hand with your partner surrounded only by trees and wildflowers? Do you envision sipping mimosas and getting ready with your bridal party or starting the day slowly, sipping coffee in bed and getting ready with your partner? Do you see yourselves dancing the night away with all of your college friends or having an intimately beautiful catered meal at your Ohiopyle Vacation Rental? Your answer to these questions will help you determine which type of wedding best suits you!
Photography: WhatMiaSaw Photography
In case you still need help figuring out which route to take, we've created a list of pros and cons to help in your decision.
Elopement & Intimate Wedding Pros:
Saving money on the wedding means you can allocate more funds to your honeymoon or other important life events.
With less planning comes less stress, a definite win.
A more flexible day-of timeline allows for more spontaneity.
Elopements tend to have a more intimate feel.
Elopement & Intimate Wedding Cons:
Your family and friends may feel left out and react negatively to your decision.
Not all vendors may cater to elopements, which could limit your choices.
If you choose to have guests, it may be difficult to select a guest list.
Traditional Wedding Pros:
You will be surrounded by the people you love.
You and your partner will be in the spotlight.
The celebration can be unforgettable and extremely fun.
Traditional Wedding Cons:
It will likely cost more than an elopement.
Wedding planning can be stressful.
Family and friends may voice their opinions about how they expect your day to go.
You can't make every guest happy, no matter how hard you try.
You will be in the spotlight much more than you would be in an elopement.
Photography: JC Photography
The most important take away from this article is that there is no one right way to celebrate your love and commitment. Both traditional weddings and elopements allow couples to celebrate love in their most authentic form. For some couples that means a large wedding and for some it means an elopement! At Ohiopyle Weddings, we are happy to accommodate any type of wedding, whether big or small, traditional, or unconventional. If you're still undecided or have questions, don't hesitate to reach out. We would love to hear your thoughts and help you find the best setting for your dream wedding.