Many people elope each year to get married in beautiful, intimate settings that mean more to them than big ceremonies. If you’re thinking about running away with your fiancé, don’t miss out on these potential locations to start your married life. They’re some of the best places to have an elopement for any couple.
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1. Las Vegas, Nevada
People often think of Las Vegas when they picture couples eloping. You can have the classic experience of getting married to Elvis, but that isn’t the only way to get married in Sin City. There are plenty of other elopement venues around town, including Red Rock Canyon outside Las Vegas.
2. New York City, New York
Millions of people live in and visit New York City each year, which leads to plenty of marriage ceremonies. You can choose from venues like rooftops and riverside parks, depending on what you and your fiancé would love. Remember to get your marriage license a few weeks ahead so your union is legal after you say your vows.
3. New Orleans, Louisiana
Your elopement could feature the best jazz in the world if you get married in New Orleans. Pledge your love on a waterfront balcony and dine on fantastic Bayou food after your ceremony. There’s no shortage of entertainment around the Big Easy to make your wedding day extra fun.
4. Outer Banks, North Carolina
If you’ve watched “Nights in Rodanthe” enough times to memorize it, why not elope in the Outer Banks? It’s a gorgeous series of islands with plenty of beach towns to choose from for your ceremony. Whether you enjoy tourist beach towns or remote locations, the Outer Banks has a bit of everything.
Consider renting a beach house for you, your fiancé, and your loved ones to say your vows at sunset. If you’re worried about dancing on sand dunes, you can always rent a dance floor to create a stable surface for partying the night away.
5. Maui, Hawaii
Your elopement could happen on top of the rolling hills of Maui. The volcanic hiking trails and picturesque skyline offer numerous opportunities for photoshoots and private vows. You’ll also have a seemingly endless selection of hotels with romantic honeymoon suites to start your vacation immediately after pledging your love for each other.
6. Charleston, South Carolina
Couples who want to feel like their wedding is more of a relaxing vacation can fly to Charleston. The city has an intimate vibe thanks to the many family-owned businesses and colorful downtown buildings. Check out the numerous gardens and secret island getaways to find the perfect spot for the ultimate elopement.
7. Seattle, Washington
Anyone who can’t wait to hike mountain trails and find the best views can consider eloping in Seattle. It’s a great blend of urban skyscrapers and national parks, so your ceremony can be whatever you want. Enjoy the bustling nightlife after saying your vows and create a list of things to see before you leave.
You’ll return home with fun memories like taste-testing at restaurants with international cuisine and visiting unique coffee shops. There are also many photographers in the big city that have various rates for couples who want high-quality photos of their mini ceremonies.
8. Lake Tahoe, California
Lake Tahoe is famous for its scenic views, crystal clear water, and remote location tucked away within a pine tree forest. Celebrate your private ceremony on the rocky lakeside while the turquoise water laps at your feet or hike to a hilltop view for photos.
Many engaged couples also find a rental boat that doubles as their venue and honeymoon suite. It’s a great idea for adventurous people who want their wedding to look like something from a storybook. All you need is a reservation and a lake to make your elopement happen.
9. Paris, France
It’s challenging to have a bad wedding when you plan an elopement in Paris. The City of Love welcomes couples yearly to say their vows on historic cobblestone streets, under the Eiffel Tower, and in buildings built hundreds of years ago.
Talk with your partner about what they’d most want to do while you’re there. You could say your vows at a French winery or on a balcony of a chateau. However, if you’re going to get married in another country, keep in mind that your marriage won’t be legal when you get back home. You’ll need to get your license before boarding your plane and say your vows symbolically after arriving.
10. Rome, Italy
Combine your love of romance, pasta, and pizza by eloping in Rome. You could pledge your love while lounging on a classic fountain or on the roof of a five-star hotel. There’s no shortage of incredible food and adventures waiting in Itlay. It’s another destination that could function as your honeymoon, too, if you want to combine it with your wedding.
11. Edinburgh, Scotland
Scotland’s historic architecture and parks make it one of the best places to have an elopement. If you’re a fan of King Arthur mythology, you and your fiancé could say their vows while you stroll through Holyrood Park or after reaching Arthur’s Seat. Edinburgh also has crumbling castles and ancient gardens that feature an air of mystery. Just keep an eye on the weather, as locals advise that it can change quickly.
12. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
If you’ve ever seen celebrities posting about their vacations at bungalows that hover over turquoise waters, they were likely at Bora Bora. The Tahitian island is a favorite getaway for lovers who want to disconnect from the world for a week or two.
Kayak over the rippling ocean and say your vows while watching sea creatures swim beneath the glass bottoms of your boats. You could also have a beachfront ceremony with a few friends or start your married life at sunset while lounging in an infinity jacuzzi. It’s a refreshing way to escape your daily routine and experience a vacation many people only dream about having.
Plan the Ultimate Elopement
The destination that makes you and your partner excited to say your vows is the best place to have an elopement. It should be a celebration of your shared interests. Talk with your fiancé to figure out what locations they find most romantic and you’ll likely narrow your options down to one of these romantic getaways.
Author Bio: Jack Shaw works as a senior writer at Modded.com. He writes about men’s fashion, cars, sports, hiking and much more.
