With the recent ruling in favor of marriage equality in the United States (hooray!), you and your longtime love might be itching to make it official. We spoke with Bernadette Smith, founder of 14 Stories, an event planning company that, along with their full-service option, helps 3040 couples a year plan their elopements, and she gave us the scoop on these simpler affairs.
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CONSIDER THE VENUE: For those who are searching for
a space outside of City Hall, Smith recommends avoiding the popular hotel conference room and going straight to the suite. “Small hotel conference rooms seem perfect for an intimate wedding, but these spaces are usually used for corporate meetings and need a lot of decor to make it feel special,” she explains. “A hotel suite might be worth the splurge, especially if you can spend your wedding night in an extraordinary space.” Another locale favorite? Parks! But Smith warns to watch out for bad weather. “Make sure you have a solid back-up plan.”
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VENDORS TO BOOK: At the very least you need a wedding officiant, but Smith also recommends hiring a celebrant who can create a personal, custom wedding ceremony and a photographer. LEGAL DETAILS: Make sure you have an officiant who can
guide you in not only getting your marriage license but also your marriage certificate to prove that you’re actually married. “In some states, this is not automatically sent to the couple after the ceremony,” notes Smith. “Also, make sure you are clear on the marriage laws of that state since some require a 1-3 day waiting period, blood tests and witnesses.”
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WAYS TO MAKE IT SPECIAL: An elopement doesn’t mean
(TOP) Angie and Josh said “I do” in New York City’s bustling Grand Central Station and later explored the city with a small group of friends, wedding attire and all! Photography by Seth & Beth Photography
INCLUDE LOVED ONES: Many couples choose to host a
(BOTTOM) Kate and Ellen picked a secluded spot in the woods to share their vows, along with their daughter. Kate created the leafy bouquets and they celebrated afterwards with a handmade cardamom-and-vanilla cake. Photography by Cassandra Zetta
you have to sacrifice on style! Make sure it’s representative of you with personalized vows, a unique ceremony site and outfits you feel amazing in. Head to a favorite date spot afterwards to toast your marriage or splurge on wedding details like cake and flowers.
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ELOPEMENTS TO INSPIRE
reception post-wedding to celebrate with family and friends. Show off your photos or video from the legal ceremony to let guests feel like they’re a part of your special day. “They could even invite their families to their elopement so they feel included in both events,” says Smith. “Elopements don't necessarily mean just the couple. We often see 10-20 close friends and family in attendance.”
(LEFT) Audrianna and Samantha’s destination Maui elopement with four witnesses ended with sun-kissed photos on the beach followed by a delicious meal at one of the island’s top restaurants. Photography by KB Digital Designs
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