What is Eloping?
When you hear the word “eloping,” you might picture a couple running off to Vegas in secret, skipping the formalities of a big wedding. While that image holds some truth, eloping has evolved over the years and today, it’s become a popular and meaningful way for couples to say “I do” on their own terms. Let’s dive into the modern meaning of elopement, why couples choose it, and how it can be just as special (if not more) than a traditional wedding.
What Is Eloping? A Modern Guide to a Timeless Wedding Option
At its core, eloping means getting married without a traditional, large wedding. It often involves a private or very small ceremony, sometimes with just the couple and an officiant or perhaps a handful of close friends or family. In the past, eloping usually implied a rushed or secretive wedding, often without parental approval. Today, eloping is more about intentional simplicity. It allows couples to focus on what matters most: their love, commitment, and the experience of marrying each other without the pressure or cost of a big event.
There are many personal reasons couples opt to elope, and none of them are wrong. Here are some of the most common motivations:
Intimacy: Eloping creates a deeply personal and private experience, free from distractions or expectations.
Simplicity: Avoiding months of planning, vendor coordination, and guest lists can reduce stress significantly.
Cost Savings: Traditional weddings can be expensive; eloping can be a budget-friendly alternative that allows couples to spend on what truly matters to them like travel or a dream honeymoon.
Adventure: Many couples use elopement as a chance to combine marriage with travel, choosing scenic locations like mountains, beaches, or city skylines.
Flexibility: Without the need to accommodate a large guest list or book a venue, couples can get married on their schedule, anywhere they want.
Modern elopements are incredibly diverse. Some couples still opt for a spontaneous, no-frills ceremony at the courthouse, while others plan beautifully styled elopements in exotic destinations with professional photography, vows, and meaningful details. Some popular elopement styles include: courthouse weddings, destination elopements (like in Paris, Iceland, or a national park), backyard or local elopements with just a photographer and officiant, and micro-weddings (a blend of eloping and a small wedding with up to 20 guests)
Is Eloping Right for You? Here’s How to Know
Weddings come in all shapes and sizes from grand ballroom affairs to quiet vows in the mountains. And for couples craving something more personal, low-key, or adventurous, eloping has become an increasingly popular choice. Eloping is a great option if:
You Want Something Intimate: If you find the idea of a large crowd overwhelming or want your vows to feel completely private, eloping could be the perfect fit. Eloping allows you to focus solely on each other without distractions.
You’re Overwhelmed by Wedding Planning: The logistics, guest lists, seating charts, and budgets of a traditional wedding can quickly become stressful. Eloping simplifies the process and reduces decision fatigue.
You’d Rather Spend Money Elsewhere: Weddings can be expensive. If you'd rather put that money toward travel, a house, or your honeymoon, eloping is a practical and rewarding alternative.
You Love to Travel or Crave Adventure: Eloping gives you the freedom to get married anywhere, from a national park to a city you’ve always wanted to visit. It's a way to make your wedding day a meaningful adventure.
You Want Something Unique and Personal: If a traditional wedding doesn’t reflect your personalities, eloping gives you space to design a day that feels completely your own no expectations, no pressure.
Eloping isn't about “running away” it’s about choosing a wedding that feels true to your relationship. Whether you're exchanging vows on a mountaintop, in a courthouse, or barefoot on a beach, what matters most is that you're making a commitment in a way that feels authentic to you. In today’s world, eloping is more than a trend; it's a heartfelt, empowering choice.
Historic Acres of Hershey offers a variety of wedding packages, which include microweddings, elopements, and smaller gatherings. Give us a call to discuss options and to check our beautiful space and availability.