Why do people elope?

Why do people elope? It’s a question I get asked a lot. And the answer is as varied as the couples I marry. But there’s always a thread running through the choice: the pursuit of simplicity, intimacy, and meaning over tradition and spectacle.

Eloping is about stripping away the layers of a traditional wedding until you’re left with just the heart of it—two people committing to a life together. No production, no audience, just love and vows exchanged in a way that feels deeply personal.

For some couples, eloping is about escaping the noise and the “shoulds” of wedding planning. They want a day that’s about their love story, not everyone else’s opinions. It’s about crafting a moment that’s authentically theirs—free from Aunt Susan’s seating chart dramas or the dreaded chicken-or-fish debate.

Then there’s the allure of intimacy. When you elope, the focus shifts. It’s no longer about entertaining guests or managing a timeline. It’s about looking your person in the eye and saying, “It’s us against the world.” That raw, unfiltered connection? That’s the magic of elopements.

Eloping also invites freedom—freedom to choose a jaw-dropping mountaintop, a quiet forest glade, or even your cozy living room as the backdrop for your “I dos.” The options are endless, and the only rule is there are no rules.

And let’s not forget about stress—or the lack of it. Eloping is a rebellion against the anxiety and the dollar signs that come with a full-blown wedding. It’s about being present, soaking up every second, and remembering what matters most.

For many, it’s the best of both worlds. You can still have incredible photos, stunning florals, and an unforgettable setting—without the fuss. It’s intimate, meaningful, and entirely your own.

That’s why people elope. Because love deserves a spotlight, not a stage.