Elopements are becoming an increasingly popular option for couples who want to marry in an intimate, stress-free, and budget-friendly way. However, many couples may wonder, “How much does it cost to elope?” While elopement can be an affordable choice compared to a traditional wedding, the cost can vary significantly based on factors such as location, vendors, and personal preferences. In this blog post, we’ll break down the typical costs of eloping and help you create a budget that fits your unique vision!
1. Choosing an Elopement Location
The location of your elopement is one of the most significant factors in determining the cost. Whether you dream of exchanging vows on a secluded beach, in a forest, or on a mountaintop, each location comes with its own set of expenses. This is where a drastic cost difference can be seen between large, traditional weddings and elopements. Instead of spending thousands on a venue, you can pick a secluded and scenic location anywhere in the world!
- Local Elopements: If you’re planning to elope somewhere close to home, you’ll save on travel and accommodation costs.
- Destination Elopements: Traveling to a scenic location can raise costs, especially if you plan to elope in an exotic destination or remote area. Popular destination elopement spots like Hawaii, Italy, or Iceland could cost anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on travel and accommodations.
2. Travel and Accommodations
If you decide on a destination elopement, travel expenses can quickly add up. The costs will depend on how far you’re traveling and where you’re staying.
- Flights: Domestic flights typically range from $100 to $800, while international flights can range from $500 to $2,000 depending on the distance and time of year.
- Accommodations: For a cozy, romantic experience, you might opt for a charming Airbnb, boutique hotel, or resort. Budget travelers can expect to pay around $50 to $150 per night for a basic stay, while luxury resorts can cost anywhere from $200 to $1,000+ per night.
3. Wedding Officiant Fees
Most locations (except one of our favorites- Colorado) will require some sort of an officiant. This can sometimes be a friend or family member who can get ordained, or an officiant who is familiar with thw wedding scene. The cost of hiring an officiant varies depending on location and experience.
- Local Officiants: In most cases, you can expect to pay between $150 and $500 for an officiant. This may include a personalized ceremony and possibly travel fees.
- Destination Officiants: For destination elopements, officiants may charge additional travel fees, which can increase costs to $500 to $1,500 or more, especially for remote locations. Consider hiring a local officiant when choosing to have a destination elopement. (Keep in mind that you may need an officiant who is comfortable with hiking depending on the location of your ceremony.)
4. Photography and Videography
Elopement photos and videos capture the essence of your special day and are a key element of your budget. Depending on the quality of service, the price can vary significantly. Most specialized elopement photo and video teams also offer very detailed planning that will help make your entire experience come together in a fun, organized way! (Like us!)
Your photographer will easily be the most important vendor, as they will preserve your elopement so that you can cherish those moments forever! While there will always be cheaper options, it’s crucial to consider how important the experience and quality of service and images are to you and your partner.
- Elopement Photography: On average, a professional photographer can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000+ for an elopement. (Keep in mind pricing is very broad for photographers as each has different packages, skills, experience, and more.) Some photographers offer packages that include both a full-day and half-day option.
- Elopement Videography: If you want a video to relive your wedding day, expect to pay anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000+ as well for a skilled videographer. You may also be able to bundle photography and videography services to save on costs. (We offer photo and video packages!)
5. Hair, Makeup, and Wardrobe
While you might not need a full bridal party, many couples still choose to hire a stylist or purchase a beautiful outfit for the occasion.
- Hair and Makeup: Professional styling can range from $100 to $500 depending on location, whether the artist travels to your venue, and the complexity of the look.
- Wedding Attire: If you’re opting for a traditional wedding dress or suit, prices can range from $200 to $3,000+. For a more relaxed style, some couples choose something casual or secondhand, reducing costs significantly to around $50 to $500.
6. Flowers and Decorations
While some elopements take place in natural settings that don’t require much decoration, others choose to add a few touches to their ceremony. Floral arrangements are a popular choice for an elegant touch.
- Flowers: A simple bouquet and boutonniere might cost around $100 to $500, while larger arrangements could reach upwards of $1,000.
- Decorations: Minimalist decor can cost as little as $50 to $200, while more elaborate setups with personalized touches can go over $1,000. Lots of couples opt for things like unique picnics to add a personalized touch to their elopement celebration!
7. Permits and Licenses
Depending on where you elope, you may need to obtain permits or licenses. For example, national parks or certain outdoor locations often require a permit for ceremonies.
- Marriage License: A marriage license typically costs around $50 to $150 depending on the state or country where you’re marrying.
- Permits: Special permits for certain venues, like national parks or beaches, can range from $50 to $500, depending on the location and the time of year.
8. Additional Costs
There are some other small costs to consider when budgeting for your elopement:
- Transportation: Renting a car or a private vehicle can cost anywhere from $50 to $400 per day.
- Food and Drink: If you’re having a celebration or intimate dinner afterward, costs could range from $50 to $500.
- Rings: Engagement rings and wedding bands vary widely in price, but you can expect to spend anywhere from $500 to $5,000+.
- Fun Activities: If you’re looking to make your favorite hobby part of your elopement day, or even looking to check something off of your bucket list, you can expect to spend anywhere from $100- $3,000 on tours and activities. If you need some fun ideas for your elopement, check out our list of 70 adventurous activities for elopements!
9. Average Elopement Cost Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of a typical elopement budget to help you visualize the costs:
- Elopement location: $500 to $2,000 (local) / $2,000 to $10,000 (destination)
- Travel and accommodation: $500 to $5,000
- Officiant: $150 to $1,500
- Photography: $3,000 to $10,000+
- Videography: $3,000 to $10,000
- Hair and Makeup: $100 to $500
- Wedding attire: $50 to $3,000+
- Flowers and decorations: $50 to $1,000
- Permits and licenses: $50 to $500
The Cost of Eloping Is What You Make It
The cost to elope can vary widely, but what’s most important is that it aligns with your values and vision for your wedding day. Whether you choose a budget-friendly, intimate ceremony or a luxury destination elopement, the cost will ultimately depend on your preferences and priorities.
One of the main advantages of eloping is the ability to tailor your wedding to your budget. Elopement allows you to prioritize the aspects of the day that are most meaningful to you, whether it’s having professional photography, celebrating in a beautiful location, or keeping the entire event simple and private.
If you’re planning to elope, take your time to research your options and create a budget that reflects the experience you desire. By planning carefully, you can have the intimate and unforgettable wedding of your dreams without breaking the bank!
