‘Elope’ – verb | run away secretly in order to get married (Source: Oxford Dictionary)
A growing trend in the wedding industry that has seen a spike in popularity following COVID-19 restrictions, elopements continue to offer couples an alternative to the traditional wedding. More than just a trend, elopements have an interesting history. Did you know the word ‘elopement’ dates back to before the 18th century? The meaning of ‘elopement’ evolved over the centuries, becoming scandalous during Victorian times, before taking on a more modern slant of intimacy, spontaneity, and romance during the Roaring 20s. Throughout the decades, it has always been a form of romantic rebellion. A rejection of societal and familial norms, celebrating the love of two people on their terms. Today, it is becoming increasingly popular with couples preferring to prioritize themselves, and their life together, over the expectation and tradition that goes along with a wedding and marriage.
It is often said in the wedding industry, “Your day, your way”. Weddings are no longer one-size-fits-all. Whether it’s a quiet ceremony in a breathtaking destination or the sweet simplicity of exchanging vows over a coffee at home, elopements offer a refreshing, intimate alternative to the elaborate, traditional (and usually hugely expensive) wedding. So, why are more and more couples choosing to elope? Here are 6 of the most popular reasons couples choose elopements rather than having a traditional wedding.
1. Cost-Effective
Weddings are expensive! The average cost of a traditional wedding in Australia was more than $33,000 in 2024*. In Queensland, the average wedding cost was more than $28,000*. Nationally, the highest ticket item for weddings in 2024 was the venue, followed by catering, photography, and videography.
In contrast, an elopement offers more flexibility in terms of budget. According to Wedlockers, in 2024 elopements cost between $8000-$20,000 in Australia, with the cheapest option being a registry-style wedding which costs between $380-$750 for a weekday ceremony (prices vary per state and vendor type - registry office v celebrant). With an elopement there are immediate savings to be made with a limited guest list, many vendors classifying an elopement to include 20 guests, some up to 50 guests (like me). Fewer guests naturally reduce costs for catering, décor, and venue hire, plus there is more scope for non-traditional options like grazing tables, pop-up picnics, and private dining concepts. In addition, the requirement for other services is greatly reduced with elopement packages for photography and videography generally averaging 2 hours versus a 5-to-8-hour package for a traditional wedding. With the cost of living impacting spending choices, more couples see elopements as a better fit for their wedding dreams and future life plans.
2. Less Stress, More Time for The Two of You
It is no secret that weddings can come with a lot of stress. From coordinating schedules to managing family expectations, the pressure can leave couples feeling overwhelmed and anxious. In contrast, elopements are naturally more laid-back, easy-going affairs. There are fewer moving parts. Logistics are less complicated and there are fewer expectations to manage, which can give couples the freedom to focus on themselves and spend less energy on managing the expectations of others.
3. It’s Intimate
One of the most compelling reasons to elope is the intimacy of the experience. When you choose to elope, you’re crafting a moment that is entirely yours. There’s no pressure to entertain guests or worry about the opinions of others. Eloping allows couples to focus on each other. Whether you are exchanging vows in the mountains, on a secluded beach, in a rustic chapel, or at home, the moment and experience of getting married is immensely personal and bespoke.
4. Customisation and Flexibility
Weddings often come with a lot of expectations—customs, traditions, expectations, and the “right way” to do things. Elopements, on the other hand, offer flexibility. Beyond the legal requirements for a wedding to be solemnised in Australia, which is approx. 120 words, there is no formula or script to elope. Want to get married at sunrise on the beach with the sand between your toes? Or perhaps you have always dreamt of exchanging your vows by a stream in a beautiful national park? Or is it that you just have a few close friends to join you at a beautiful rustic setting to celebrate by a fire pit? Eloping comes with the freedom to create your day, your way. You can curate an experience that reflects your personality, passions, and love story.
5. Fewer Guests, More Meaningful Connections
The guest list is one of the most stressful, and often contentious, parts of traditional weddings. Navigating who gets invited, who doesn’t, and what if someone’s feelings are hurt alongside the juggle of budget spend can cause unnecessary stress not to mention tension. In its essence, a marriage is about two people, with an elopement you get to choose to keep it small or even just the two of you. You get to choose what and who matters most, without the pressure of trying to accommodate everyone. The result? Meaningful connections and memorable moments. You both get a chance to truly savour the day and all its moments with the people who you want to share it with. And yes, this can include your fur baby and your children – it is your choice!
6. Less Pressure, More Joy
One of the downsides of traditional weddings is the immense pressure to make everything “perfect.” Elopements, by nature, are more relaxed. There’s no need to worry about anything other than the two of you. As a result, eloping often results in a more joyful, relaxed, carefree day where you can truly enjoy each other, and celebrate your love, without any unnecessary distractions.
The Takeaway: Elopements Are A Trend To Stay
Elopements are no longer about scandal or running away in secret. They are a legitimate choice for couples who value intimacy, simplicity, and the freedom to curate a day that feels like them. This trend toward smaller, more personal weddings isn’t just a reaction to the increase in the cost of living—it’s about finding ways to cultivate a deeper connection; to create time for each other to celebrate the love you share in a way that’s meaningful to you (and only you).
For many couples, the concept of a lavish traditional wedding holds no appeal. The pressure for perfection, and the weight of other people’s expectations is a burden they reject. Instead, many couples are embracing the idea of an intimate celebration, where the focus is on what truly matters: their love, commitment, and shared journey. Whether you’re dreaming of a ceremony with a mountain backdrop in a glorious rural setting or a quiet vow exchange by the ocean, eloping offers the perfect opportunity to make your wedding day truly your own.
So, if you're considering an elopement, know that you’re not alone in this growing trend. With its mix of personal connection, romance, and cost savings, eloping might just be the perfect way to start the next chapter of your life. And remember, there are vendors that can help to make eloping even easier like the team at Scenic Rim Elope one of my vendor partners who specialises in elopements in and around the Scenic Rim or Gold Coast Hinterland. Or if you are thinking of eloping on a Gold Coast beach, in a park in Brisbane, or anywhere in between, one of my elopement packages may be just what you are after. You can read all about the inclusions and pricing HERE.
Source: *Easy Weddings, Australian Wedding Industry Report 2024
Photo by: Sarah Couturier
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