I photographed sixteen weddings last year and almost half of them were elopements.
Not your last minute/we just met kind of elopements. These elopements are people who have been in loving relationships for years who were ready to deepen their commitment to one another.
And do you know what the common denominator was when they decided they wanted to elope?
They all simply wanted… intimacy (I know what you’re thinking— how do you elope in New York City and have intimacy when there’s a million strangers walking by? Y’all, this is one of the most romantic cities in the world, it’s easy to tune out the rest of the world where your beloved is standing in front of you declaring their love for you).
So many of my couples in 2023 just wanted to enjoy their love story without too many opinions, prying eyes, or big financial commitments. They wanted their wedding day to be about them and their love. Their vows could be said freely and they didn’t have to feel awkward about being vulnerable in front of a large group of people. They didn’t have to fit any part of their ceremony into a traditional box— with our help, they were able to craft a ceremony that they loved that also fit their personalities, beliefs, and timeframes. So many couples I photographed were also just SO excited to have a vacation in New York City that was solely about them and their love. It’s so sacred to get away from work and real life and to have a few days together. Just you two or just you two and your closest friends and family. It’s the kind of destination wedding you won’t forget.
Ya know what else they all had in common?
They ALL have plans to throw a big celebratory party a few months or years after their elopement— because they love their friends and family and value getting to celebrate with them too.
I think sometimes elopements can be viewed as a selfish thing, but after photographing so many, I see how incredibly emotional and sacred they can be. The couples I’ve witnessed eloping have a presence with each other that goes uninterrupted. They can be so much more available to one another. They can really lean into one another. It’s an intimacy that rarely is had on a big wedding day.
So, it goes without saying, but I’m a huge fan of these intimate moments. These quiet elopements. These celebrations just for the two of you and the small little team of people you bring to help ya celebrate. I’m here for it. I love the idea of not putting your love story on hold just because of the stress of a wedding. I love the idea of eloping now, and when it feels right, partying later.
What do you think? Are you convinced eloping might be your thing?