Elopement. By current Merriam-Webster dictionary standards, it means secretly running away to get married without parental approval. This definition came to life in the 1700s, and I must say, it seems a bit outdated. Oddly enough, the earliest use of the word elopement can be traced back to 1338, when it meant the act of running away from your spouse with another lover. These days, some might think an elopement is a no-frills courthouse wedding or an officiant dressed like Elvis at an all-night Las Vegas wedding chapel. It seems there's a stigma attached to eloping that undoubtedly stems from what the word used to mean.
As a professional photographer in Myrtle Beach, I've attended many elopements over the years. Though each experience was unique, I've found them all to be intentional, intimate ceremonies that lacked the pressure and obligations often associated with traditional weddings. Elopements have evolved a lot since their early origins. They appeal to many couples because there are no rules, which means total freedom to get married however they choose.
The COVID outbreak of 2020 forced several people to elope, and from what I've seen on social media, many of those people have developed a newfound appreciation for small, intimate weddings. It seems the trend of elopements is gaining popularity, and it's no wonder. There are many advantages for couples who choose to elope.
A Few Benefits of Eloping
- Though traditional weddings are fun, the planning and coordination of them can be stressful and overwhelming. Eloping doesn't require so much fuss, which means less work and more wedding bliss.
- Without concern for accommodating an abundance of guests, elopements give couples the freedom to choose the wedding location that works best for them.
- Elopements are much less expensive than traditional weddings.
- On average, traditional weddings produce an estimated 400 pounds of trash, making elopements an eco-friendly alternative.
Elopement Etiquette
If your elopement will be private, it's good etiquette to let family and friends know you've gotten engaged and are planning to elope. Be prepared that not everyone may support your decision, especially family members. Send printed elopement announcements to your family and friends instead of posting a surprise announcement on social media. Include a portrait or two from the ceremony and consider throwing an intimate dinner party to celebrate the occasion with them.
My Most Recent Elopement Session
Congratulations to Kaitlin and Kory Peterson, who tied the knot on August 16, 2021. Many thanks to them for choosing me to photograph their beautifully intimate beachfront elopement and for allowing me to share their magical wedding story with you.
Kaitlin and Kory
Theirs was a destination elopement. Kaitlin and Kory traveled to Myrtle Beach from Reedsburg, Wisconsin, with a handful of close family and friends in tow. They choose to stay at The Breakers Resort in the heart of Myrtle Beach, the perfect choice for rolling a wedding and honeymoon into one trip. Despite eloping, the Petersons didn't downplay their wedding. Kaitlin wore a gorgeous off-white wedding gown and held a stunning bouquet of roses made by Royal Decor. Her hair, a dreamy updo done at R Salon and Spa, was perfect for the beach and gave off serious chill-bride vibes.
Kory's attire was seaside sophisticated. His classic white shirt and pink rose boutonniere perfectly complemented his beautiful bride. His khaki pants resembled the warm hues of the sand and set the tone for a low-key, relaxed ceremony. He topped off the look with a gray satin tie and flip-flops aptly suited for a beachside wedding. Kolton, Kaitlin and Kory's adorable son, was dressed to match his daddy and ready to bear the rings.
To accommodate Kaitlin and Kory's wish for a private beachside wedding, I suggested driving 25 miles south to Pawleys Island. The ceremony took place at the Pawleys Island Pier, unknown to many tourists and nestled in the southernmost stretch of the Grand Strand. Just as I'd hoped, we found the beach peaceful and pristine. The weather was perfect, and there was hardly a beachgoer insight. Performing the ceremony was a close friend of Kaitlin and Kory. The atmosphere was serene, and many smiles abounded.
The Peterson elopement was every bit as special and memorable as the big weddings I've photographed, if not more. They stripped away the pageantry of a traditional wedding and focused on what truly matters; the promises that they made to each other on that special day.
Without the pressure of a big reception and many guests to entertain, Kaitlin and Kory lovingly posed for portraits as the day turned into night and stars appeared above them. It was nice to see them immersed in the moment together.
According to a survey done by Brides Magazine, December is the most common time of year to become engaged. If you should happen to get engaged soon, eloping may be right for you. Perhaps a traditional wedding is more your style. Either way, I'd love to be your Myrtle Beach wedding photographer! I'm also available for engagement and bridal sessions. Contact me for more information. Cheers!
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