So, you've decided to ditch the big wedding and go for the adventure of a lifetime: an Australian elopement. I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again: there are so many reasons to consider an elopement (my wife and I did). They are not only intimate and oh-so-romantic, but they can also be a fun way to save money on your wedding day. You can spend less time stressing and more time enjoying quality time with each other, family, and friends.
If you are an Australian couple, you are even luckier because it's just on your doorstep! And there is no shortage of breathtaking places to choose from when planning your elopement in Australia. There really is something for everyone whether you prefer the tropical beaches in Cairns or the rugged mountains of Tasmania, or the lush rainforests of the Daintree!
We get it. You're trying to figure out what the heck an elopement is, and how you and your partner can elope in Australia. Worry not, we've got all the details covered.
We've put together an Ultimate Guide to Australian Elopements that will help you plan every last detail of your big day. From how to decide if eloping is right for you, to choosing the right location, our guide is here to help you start the process.
But first, what exactly is an elopement?
When you think of an elopement, you might picture a couple running off to a courthouse to get married, all while trying not to be seen by their angry families. But that's not the only kind of elopement.
We define elopement as any wedding ceremony that is small, intimate, and more true to you than traditional nuptials. If you really want to get down to brass tacks: if it doesn't have guests or reception, it's an elopement.
While elopements can be planned in secret, we're here to tell you that that's definitely not required. We recommend being totally open about your plans for your big day with your loved ones—and even inviting them to attend!
If you think an elopement might be right for you and your partner or if you just want to know more about how they work, read on for our guide to everything you need to know about Australian elopements.
How to know if Eloping in Australia is right for you?
Are you considering eloping Down Under? Congratulations! Eloping is one of the most romantic ways to get married, and Australia is full of beautiful places to tie the knot.
If you're still not sure if eloping is right for you, here are a few questions to ask yourself:
1. Do you get stressed out about planning a BIG wedding?
2. Are you looking for something intimate and quiet?
3. Do you hate crowds or are you an introvert?
4. Do you love the idea of a spontaneous wedding in a breathtaking setting?
5. Are you just so in love that none of this stuff seems to matter anyway and you can't wait any longer to say I DO?
If you answered YES to most of the questions then elopement is definitely an option to consider and you will not regret it!!
How to Choose Your Dream Australian Elopement Location.
Deciding where to elope is a big deal. If you've decided to do it in Australia, then you know the hard part is already done and you're marrying the love of your life in an incredible location!
But choosing your dream elopement location still requires some thought and consideration. After all, this is where you're going to make the biggest promise of your life while surrounded by some of the most amazing natural beauty on earth.
Your elopement location should be as rich with meaning as it is with beauty, and what better way to ensure that than by choosing a location that really speaks to you?
1. Know what you want out of your Australian adventure elopement location.
First of all, ask yourself what kind of experience you want to have. Do you want a rugged, remote hike? Or an easy walk from the parking lot? Are you okay with crowds and other people around? Or are you looking for something more private and romantic?
2. Consider accessibility.
It may be a good idea to consider whether or not there will be anyone to help if something goes wrong during your elopement, especially if you're planning on doing something super remote or physically risky like climbing a mountain or exploring a cave. If that's not an option, at least make sure your photographer knows how to get to your chosen location without a hiccup.
Here are some further questions to ask yourself when choosing your Australian adventure elopement location:
What's the best part of your relationship? Is it how silly you feel around each other? Is it how much you both love being outside? Is it how you love to travel and learn about new places? Or maybe it's all three! Think about what makes your relationship special and unique.
What do you want your wedding day photos to look like? When you're looking back on your wedding photos for years to come, what kind of vibe do you want them to have? Whimsical and carefree? Adventurous and outdoorsy? Classy and elegant? Romantic and intimate? Whatever vibe you’re going for if it feels right then IT IS RIGHT!
It is YOUR day!
There are many possible answers to what your elopement will look like, but know this: whatever your vision is, it can be a reality. Every couple who chooses an elopement does so with their own vision and style in mind. There are no limits, only limitations that we impose on ourselves.
After all, weddings are about love and beauty, not about rules and regulations. So my friends, if you're still reading this and you're thinking about an Australian elopement then the only question left to ask yourself is when!?!