How Much Does it Cost to Elope
There are so many reasons to elope, including creating a unique experience and lower costs than traditional weddings. But how much does it cost to create a really memorable elopement?
Much like weddings, which cost an average of $30,000, elopement costs vary. Below you’ll find a list of everything necessary, as well as some optional add-ons.
Average elopement cost $5,000 - $20,000
Essential costs:
Travel: $100 - $3,000
Travel costs can range from a tank of gas to international flights. How far and when (peak season vs. slow season) will impact these costs. If you do plan on flying, remember to budget getting to and from the airport and a rental car or other transportation while at your destination.
Lodging: $0 - $3,000
If you’re getting married close to home, consider starting your elopement day off at home. Getting ready in your home together will provide such sweet memories. However, one perk of renting a place to stay is getting to choose amenities you don’t have at home. Look for places with lots of natural light to make getting-ready photos gorgeous, or a hot tub, fire pit, or games for added fun.
Officiant: $0 - $1,500
Whether you need an officiant or not depends on where you’re getting married however, you have many options regardless.
Hire an officiant
When hiring a professional, they’ll help you choose vows and ceremony packages and give tips on writing your own vows. Opting to create a customized ceremony with an officiant will usually raise your costs as well.
Have a loved one become ordained for free
I’m personally ordained through the Universal Life Church. It’s free and only takes a few minutes. Their website also shows which states
Self-solemnizing means doing the ceremony and marrying yourselves. Some states allow this, while others, like Washington, require that you still have someone who is ordained witness the ceremony and sign paperwork.
Photography: $3,000 - $20,000
I know I’m biased, but I do think hiring a photographer to capture your day is essential. These photos will help preserve your memories and be one of the only ways you’ll be able to share your day with others. The cost will depend on the amount of experience a photographer has, the amount of time they’ll be shooting, and how far they’ll need to travel.
Location permits: $0 - $1,000
If you’re planning on getting married in a National or State Park, you’ll likely need a special use permit. Costs can vary depending on popularity, but in Washington state, the average permit usually costs about $100.
Attire: $500 - $8,000
Don’t fall prey to the common misconception about making your attire less than what you would for a wedding. Wear what you love, no matter how fancy!
Do read this advice on what to consider when buying a dress for an adventure elopement and this blog for advice on suits.
Food and drink: $100 - $4,000
Whether you’re having a picnic dinner at sunset with just the two of you, or a reception with guests later on in the day, you’ll need to eat sometime!
Optional add-ons
Florals: $150 - $3,000
Wedding day floral arrangements can be so much more than just a bouquet. Think arbor arrangements, hairpieces, boutonnieres, as well as ceremony aisle and reception decor. Keep your spending in check by asking your florist to use seasonal flowers.
Side note: Not all locations allow fresh cut, dried, or live flowers due to fragile ecosystems. Do follow the Leave No Trace Principles and consider using artificial flowers or native and non-invasive species if this is one of your must-haves.
Hair and makeup: $300 - $2,000
Hiring someone to do your hair and makeup while getting ready in a cute cabin is one thing, but did you know there are hair and makeup artists that will accompany you to your ceremony location even if you’re hiking there!?
Don’t nix getting your hair and makeup done just because you’re planning on adventuring. Personally, I think hiring professionals is a great way to feel pampered and ensure that you’re going to love the way you look in your photos.
Videography: $2,000 - $10,000
Video is another beautiful way to share and remember your day. I love that you’ll be able to hear each other’s vows for years to come.
Planner: $1,000 - $6,000
Some experienced adventure elopement photographers, like myself, also help serve as planners by suggesting ceremony and photo locations, guiding you through the permit process, creating your day-of timeline, and more, but there are still reasons to hire a wedding planner.
They’ll help you confirm vendor details leading up to your elopement, be the point person for vendors and guest questions on the day of, help smooth out logistics, and some even offer help setting up decorations.
Live music
Again, don’t think that just because you’ll be eloping on a remote mountain, on a hike, or in an extreme location that a musician won’t be thrilled to provide music for your elopement. You’ll be surprised as to where I’ve seen harpists, pianists, violinists, and guitarists venture with their instruments!
Your activity of choice $0 - $5,000
This is one of the bigger perks of eloping. You have the ability to create a one-of-a-kind experience! Take this as an opportunity to try something you’ve always wanted to, do something you already enjoy together, or share your love of something with your partner.
It can be as simple as a hike to your ceremony location or a just-for-fun celebration, like rock climbing the day after their wedding like these two did.
Ultimately, you should only spend what you feel is comfortable, but you should prioritize making your elopement an experience you’re proud of. Your elopement should leave you feeling fulfilled, loved, and excited for this new chapter in your life.
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