How ‘bout we just elope???

Leanne Smith Civil Celebrant

I hear this so often, and mostly from couples who are so over all the stress that has accumulated around them as they try to plan their wedding. While it’s not for everyone, for many couples who want to marry, eloping is a very appealing alternative to the big family wedding

So how does it work?

Is it legal?

What do you need to consider?

Firstly, let me reassure you that all the legal requirements are the same, however you choose to get married Afterall married is married, however you choose to celebrate it!

But Elopement ceremonies are certainly a little different to bigger wedding events. They are up close, intense and very intimate. You will want to surround yourselves with those you feel most comfortable and relaxed with, the ones who can share your laughter and tears when the only audience you have is each other, your witnesses and maybe your closest family and friends. Your needs, wants and vision for the day will be intensely yours

You can have just the "legals only" ceremony, or you can choose a celebrant who will work with you to create an intimate and personal ceremony in which you can personalise the words, write your own vows and choose where you’d like the ceremony to take place

A “Legals Only” ceremony is just that- the celebrant says the legal words, the couple say the legal vows, the certificates are signed with 2 witnesses, and BOOM -you are married, takes less than 10 mins.

The celebrant lodges the documents with the registry office, the marriage is registered, and the marriage certificate is available for the couple

An Elopement could be a “Legals Only” ceremony if you want OR can include all the good stuff: the Giving Away, the I Do's, your personal vows, exchanging rings, and maybe a reading or a ritual

Check out my new li’l Facebook page CQ Elopement Weddings, or contact me any time if you have questions,

Leanne