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By all accounts, it’s not a great year to be planning a wedding. The global pandemic—and the ever-shifting estimates as to when it might begin to subside—has made it virtually impossible to make plans just days or weeks in advance. Coordinating a celebration scheduled three, six, or twelve months from now? Forget it.
But necessity is the mother of invention, and while some couples have made the difficult decision to postpone their event, others have begun contemplating less conventional alternatives to the in-person soirees of yesteryear. For those who may have already had misgivings about hosting a formal affair, now is the perfect time to swap an unwieldy guest list for something more pared down and personal: an elopement.
Whether you’re donning matching masks on your way to city hall or live streaming your ceremony from the comfort of a remote Airbnb, an elopement allows you and your partner to create an experience that’s entirely your own. So go ahead and handpick the traditions that mean something to you and leave the rest behind—just don’t forget to bring the essentials below.
The Fit
The best part about eloping? You can wear whatever you want, full stop. Whether it’s an updated take on the little white dress or a bold, unexpected pop of color, just make sure you feel incredible in it.
A Little Something Extra
As even the most committed minimalist can attest, these bizarre times call for extra accessorizing (right?). Tie your look together with an embellished headband or bedazzled veil — and whatever you do, don t forget to mask up!
Photographic Evidence
No matter how you choose to celebrate, don’t forget to document the proceedings.
Something New
Mark the occasion with a thoughtful, personalized gift for your partner. Think of it as a souvenir from your special day.
The Go Bag
Hitting the road? If you re anything like me, your go-to weekender is begging for an upgrade.
Your Vows
The most important part! Without an audience of onlookers, it’s less nerve wracking to say what you have to say—but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t write it down.
