Thursday, January 3, 2013

Elopement - "Keeping it Simple"

Elopement is marriage done in secret, haste and without any public period of engagement.  Couples elope because of many reasons such as in the case of arranged marriages where a suitor is disliked.  Other reasons for eloping are the lack of finances to plan a wedding, family feud, teenagers in love and parents object to their decision...the list could go on and on. Whatever the reason is, eloping is personal and secretive.


A big "DON'T" of mine when you elope is, registering for gifts.  This is not just a poor taste but inappropriate.  Don't expect friends and family members to send you a barrage of gifts when you secretly excluded everyone from your list.  I do not object to anyone eloping, it is a personal choice for whatever reason, and your happiness. Another "Don't" is to call up a loved one immediately after you are married and announce "just married."  Wait until you get back and explain in a nice note to everyone and also at the reception.  As in the case of parents, it is more respectful once you get back to meet in person and give your explanation before the wedding celebration.

A big "DO" of mine is when you both get back from eloping, send a personal note to family members and friends explaining why you eloped. Don't wait to surprise people in the grocery store, or at a family picnic, reunion, or for a loved one coming across a name change or reading about you in the Bridal column of your local newspaper. Plan and invite family and friends to a reception and again, do not expect a barrage of gifts because this is a sudden "wedding celebration."  Another big "DO" is to announce during your reception your reason to elope and, express the joy of sharing this special day with everyone in whatever setting is ideal for your budget.

Elopement is "keeping it simple" on the other hand, keep it tasteful!

Happy Planning!

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