The Pros and Cons of Eloping Versus a Traditional Wedding

Congrats on getting engaged! You may have found this page because you have found yourself in the stressful wedding planning phase and you are now totally anxiety riddled at all that comes with having a traditional wedding. Well, I'm an elopement photographer and I want to help you make the decision for what is best for you and your partner. Traditional weddings have their place for the right couple, but eloping is becoming a popular choice now too! Both have their pros and cons, so it's important to weigh them carefully before making your decision.

Eloping: Pros:

1. It's typically much less expensive than a traditional wedding. The average wedding costs $26,000 where as the average elopement is anywhere from $5000-$15,000.

2. It's a much more intimate experience, as it's just the two of you. A day that the two of you can really bond over the experience and enjoy each moment with each other.

3. It allows for more flexibility in terms of location and timing.

4. It's a great option for couples who don't want the stress of planning a big wedding.

5. Great for if you or your partner are introverted and don't like to have many eyes on you at once.

6. If you have your elopement in a destination location, you can continue to honeymoon there, saving money on flights and making your big day + honeymoon much more affordable.

7. You can really make the day all about you and your partner and customizing it to make it as unique as you desire!

8. You won't hurt certain people's feelings if you make a rule to not include anyone at all.

Cons:

1. It doesn't include friends and family, so you may miss people that are important to you.

2. It may be seen as less romantic or serious by some people (typically older generations and more traditionals, although I do not agree at all).

3. You may miss out on some of the traditional wedding rituals.

Traditional Wedding: Pros:

1. It allows you to celebrate with friends and family.

2. It's a great opportunity to create lasting memories with your loved ones.

3. It's a great option for couples who want to follow traditional wedding rituals.

4. It's a chance to show off your style and personality through your wedding theme.

5. Great if you are very outgoing and love to have attention!

Cons:

1. It can be expensive.

2. It can be stressful to plan.

3. You won't be able to spend much intimate time together. You will be spending less time alone together and more time socializing with guests.

4. You might spend more time coordinating, worrying about things going to plan and conversing with relatives than being in the moment

So whether you choose to elope or have a traditional wedding is entirely up to you. As a photographer, I will be thrilled to capture all the moments of your special day and make it a memory that lasts forever. Whether you're local here in Austin, Texas or I meet you in your destination anywhere around the world, I am so honored if you choose me to photography your intimate, special occasion and I will do everything in my power to capture it perfectly. Remember, at the end of the day, the most important thing is that you're marrying the person you love. Do what fits you!