With the pandemic crushing so many travel plans, it's often forgotten that wedding plans are part of the travel that so many were counting on this year. While much of these arrangements have been pushed back, rescheduled, and temporarily put on hold, some are turning to a new, brazen option: An isolated elopement.
According to Travel + Leisure, two-person elopements are becoming more and more popular. Many couples have come to realize that marriage consists of the vows exchanged between two people, and as such, are making plans just the two of them for a romantic ceremony. With some choosing to have larger receptions later on, the idea of a couple going away for a short time span with only a photographer and their officiant are becoming more and more on-trend.
Even more appealing is the low (if any besides accommodations) cost of an elopement such as this as well as the safety of the happy couple. The destinations couples are choosing for their elopement are equally as bold and stunning as their love for one another. Sometimes, love waits for no one, and when it's time make the promise of forever, eloping is far more romantic than many realize... check out these photos for proof.
Consider A Tropical Spot
Weddings in warm places are definitely not a new concept but it's one that's gaining popularity once again. With hotel arrangements for only two, however, wedding planning just got a whole lot easier. A destination elopement such as this takes care of itself since the honeymoon can follow in the same location.
Or Perhaps A Chillier Atmosphere Is The Key
Iceland is a breathtaking destination for just about everything - including weddings. With a backdrop such as this (a literal iceberg!), it's pretty tough to beat. The setting of a black sand beach is dramatic as well as timeless, adding an air of mystery and intrigue to potential elopement photos. It might be chilly, but that's just even more reason to snuggle up to your significant other after saying "I do."
A National Park Makes For An Easy, And Sometimes Local, Setting
This photo was taken at Yosemite but it doesn't feel like a typical trek through a National Park. There are many locations in Yosemite and other National Parks for incredible photo ops, but this one is truly stunning. Not only do couples have the chance to exchange their vows on a cliff or mountain summit, but there's something about the isolation and humbling nature of a mountaintop that makes things that much more memorable.
What About A Hiker's Elopement?
Back in the old days, couples needed to head out on foot or horseback to elope away from society. In today's world, public transportation makes that far easier, but what if that didn't exist? For the truly adventurous, there's a certain excitement about getting away from it all with the one you're deeply in love with, and actually putting in the work to make it to your elopement destination. Not to mention, it makes for a great story when you return and also some pretty awesome photos. This one is for you, nature lovers!
Renting A Boat For Vows Has Never Been Easier
In a true act of self-isolating, renting a boat and getting married on the water is a great adventure. Imagine being surrounding by nothing but aquamarine waters with the sunset in the background! Now that's a true seaside love story.
Nothing But Open Valleys For Days
The midwest is home to gorgeous prairie lands that are green as far as the eye can see. When they're in full bloom or even as the leaves are changing, these same fields can easily double as the perfect elopement backdrop. Plus, it's easy enough to maintain a distance when there's this much room to spread out and have some fun.
