Why Have a Non-Traditional Wedding
Just the thought of having to stand up in front of a crowd, or "host" a group of people...it might send shivers down your spine. There are alternate ways to get married, and they are becoming more and more popular. Here are some reasons why you might choose to elope or have an intimate wedding.
You might feel that a traditional wedding isn't for you.
Last updated: 15 March 2024
Having no (or less) people at your wedding allows you to focus on the essence of your commitment without the distractions and pressures of a large wedding. You can exchange vows in a more intimate setting, sharing the moment with only a select few or even just the two of you. It creates a sense of privacy and allows for a deeper connection between you both, giving you every reason to show all your vulnerabilities and emotions to your partner. There's no reason to hold back!
If you're like me, then the thought of standing up in front of a crowd, displaying all your emotions, and being the centre of attention makes you feel a bit sick to your stomach. I compromised with my partner and had 2 intimate weddings (one in Canada, one in Belgium) and still I couldn't bear to say my vows or show any vulnerable emotions. I left my weddings very happy, but still feeling like I missed out on something deep, the reason that you get married. Yes, I signed the papers... but I didn't get married for the visa (at least that's what he thinks :P kidding). We got married because we wanted to show our truest commitment to one another.
It's different for everyone. Some people have no problem showing their full selves in front of an audience. But if you're like me, then definitely consider an alternate way of getting married! Happy to jump on a call with you to tell you everything I know about intimate weddings.
1. Intimacy and Privacy:
Planning a traditional wedding can be time-consuming and stressful. Eloping and intimate weddings offer flexibility and simplicity in the planning process. You can choose a date that works for you, select a location that holds personal significance, and organize the ceremony at your convenience with just a handful of people to consider. It allows you to bypass the complexities of a huge guest list, seating arrangements, and coordinating many vendors.
If you can't choose between eloping or having a big wedding, might I suggest going off to elope, then coming back and having a big party? Even organizing a party in someone's backyard or a venue is a lot easier if you can keep the ceremony bit out of it.
3. Flexibility and Simplicity:
Traditional weddings are very costly already, and sometimes you wonder where else that money could go. By eloping, you can use that money towards more rewarding experiences and most likely even spend a lot less money overall!
Instead of paying for a huge, expensive venue, you could be putting that money towards a helicopter ride with a private chef and picnic area in the Italian Dolomites, or spending a couple of days hiking and sleeping in "Hütten" through the Swiss Alps. Maybe you've decided you want to rent a sailboat and sail through the Greek islands. You've got so many options on what the two of you can do to celebrate your love for each other. The key factor being, make sure it's about the two of you!
2. Budget Arrangements:
Couple eloping in the Austrian Alps
Couple after their intimate ceremony in the Okanagan, British Columbia
Eloping and intimate weddings enable you to prioritize your relationship and the commitment you are making to each other. By eliminating the external pressures and expectations that often accompany traditional weddings, you can concentrate on the significance of the moment and the love you share. It's an opportunity to create an experience that truly reflects your values and desires as a couple.
If you're having a big wedding, there's a chance you will get stuck talking to that one drunk uncle for half the night, when you really just wanted to hang out with your friends. You can eliminate this scenario by telling Uncle Drunky that, as much as you love and appreciate him, he's not on the guest list, along with Aunt Crazy and all her cats.
4. Focus on each other, and just those who are most imporant to you:
It's important to note that the decision to elope or have a traditional wedding ultimately depends on your personal preferences, values, and circumstances. Consider discussing your desires as a couple, communicating with loved ones, and evaluating what will make your special day most meaningful for you both. And remember, you can always come home and celebrate with a backyard dinner with everyone who didn't get to join you on your special day; there's always alternative ways to celebrate with everyone else that come with a lot less planning and stress!
If you want more information about eloping, you can check out my free elopement guide. I've also got another blog that goes more in to detail about which type of wedding is for you. Finally, this useful resource is for everyone who's considering heading to the Italian Dolomites (for eloping, though this article can help for your wedding as well). Happy planning!
Eloping can be an adventure in itself. You have the freedom to choose a super scenic or an unconventional location that resonates with your personalities. It can be a memorable and unique experience that sets your wedding apart, allowing you to create lasting memories while starting your journey as a married couple.
You could have lasting memories of getting married at that tiny villa on the Amalfi coast, with just your parents, siblings and BFFs. Maybe you did your photo session at sunset on the beach, and decided to jump in the ocean for some epic dress-trashing photos. You will always remember that time he picked you up in the water and tossed you around until you fell over laughing. That feeling of being so free and in love, it will last a lifetime.
Or perhaps you chose to elope, and went to the Austrian Dolomites. You wanted a winter wedding, so you chose to stay in some incredible chalets with views like no other, said your vows on a snowy day, ventured through the woods only to stumble upon a herd of deer. The two of you silently watched the beautiful creatures graze on the land. And you shared that moment with just the two of you. Then, the next day, went for a ski/snowboard in your wedding attire with your photographer!
Maybe you wanted a challenge, and decided to hike and say your vows on a mountaintop at sunset. You go to a place that has a mountain hut to sleep in for the night, so once you've arrived, you shower and change into your wedding attire. Since the light is fading, all the other hikers have already gone back down, and you have the place mostly to yourselves. You say your heartfelt words to each other, swear on forever, then spend the night star gazing and sleeping in this cozy mountain hut. The next morning, don't forget to get up for sunrise! Welcome the new day as a married couple.
5. Adventurous and Unique Experience:
Couple eloping in Switzerland
Couple eloping in Milan
As a wedding & elopement photographer, I am very happy to share my years of expertise with you and give you more tips and tricks to help you make your non traditional wedding come true.
Need more information?
5 Reasons to Have a Non-Traditional Wedding in 2024
- Intimacy and Privacy
- Budget arrangements
- Flexibility and Simplicity
- Focus on each other
- Adventurous and Unique Experience
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