Picture this: You’re standing on a mountaintop, the wind is playing with your hair, and your partner is holding your hand as you say “I do” with no awkward speeches, no cake-cutting schedules, and absolutely no Chicken Dance. Sounds dreamy, right? But what’s the cost of turning that dreamy elopement into reality?
Let’s dive in – and don’t worry, no calculators required!
Elopement vs. Traditional Wedding Costs
If you’ve ever Googled “average wedding cost,” you’ve probably spit out your coffee. A traditional wedding in the U.S. runs around $30,000 – and that’s not even counting the therapy bills from seating-chart drama.
Elopements, on the other hand, are all about doing what you want without breaking the bank. They usually range from $5,000 to $15,000 and prioritize experiences over extravagance.
Here’s how they stack up:
- Venues: Fancy ballrooms? Think $10,000 or more. A jaw-dropping cliffside for your elopement? Anywhere from $0 to $5,000 (and the views are way better).
- Catering: Feeding 100 guests at a wedding can cost $75 to $150 per person. Elopements? A romantic picnic or a swanky private dinner might cost $50 to $300 – and you can totally eat the dessert first.
- Photography: Both deserve epic photos! Wedding photographers range $3,000 to $6,000, while elopement photography pros often charge $3,000 to $10,000 (and they’ll hike up a mountain with you).
- Florals: Say goodbye to towering centerpieces costing $2,000 to $5,000. For an elopement, a bouquet and boutonnière are $150 to $500 – and won’t block anyone’s view.
- Attire: Traditional weddings often mean dresses priced between $1,000 to $3,000, while elopements give you the freedom to go simple, chic, or boho for $250 to $1,500.
The Elopement Price Tag
Eloping isn’t about cutting corners – it’s about splurging where it matters most (like pizza delivery after saying your vows – yes, really). Here’s where your dollars might go:
- Venues & Accommodation
Whether it’s a dreamy Airbnb in the mountains or a cozy beachside cabin, expect to spend $100 to $350+ per night. Bonus: No one will knock on your door asking if the garter toss is happening soon. - Attire
Whether you’re rocking hiking boots under your dress or a sleek suit, you’re looking at $250 to $1,500+ for outfits that match your vibe. - Photography
The MVP of your elopement budget. Photographers typically charge $3,000 to $10,000 for adventure coverage that makes you look like the stars of your own indie rom-com. - Hair & Makeup
Want that “effortlessly fabulous” look? Pro stylists charge about $150 to $500, and trust me, you’ll feel like a million bucks. - Florals
A lush bouquet or boutonnière for $150 to $500? Perfect for tossing in the air when you shout, “We did it!” - Officiant
Unless your BFF is ordained, hiring a licensed officiant costs around $400 to $800. Bonus points if they’ll hike to the summit with you! - Dining
Elopements skip the buffet line for something memorable – like a private chef, a candlelit dinner, or a picnic that’s too cute for Instagram. Costs range from $100 to $300. - Adventures & Activities
Helicopter ride? Brewery tour? Hot air balloon sunset ride (why not)? These extras usually cost $300 to $1,500, and they’re worth every penny for the memories.
Why Eloping Is the Ultimate Win
Here’s the secret sauce: Eloping lets you ditch the stress, focus on each other, and spend your budget on moments that matter. Want to start your day with a sunrise hike, say your vows by a waterfall, and end with a celebratory dinner under the stars? Done and done.
Traditional weddings have their charm, but elopements are for the adventurers, the romantics, and the couples who don’t want to share their cake (we get it). Your day, your way. And yes, your photographer will totally carry your snacks.
Ready to Make Your Elopement Dream a Reality?
If you’re dreaming of exchanging vows under a canopy of trees, hiking to a mountaintop for that perfect “I do” moment, or cozying up at a lakeside cabin with the love of your life, I’m here to help make it happen.
Let’s chat about your vision and create a day that’s uniquely you. Whether you’re still deciding on a location, wondering what to pack, or need someone to cheer you on when you pop champagne after your vows, I’ve got your back!
Reach out here to start planning your unforgettable elopement adventure.
Let’s make your love story one for the books (and the gram).
