Breaking with Tradition: Dealing with the Guilt of Eloping

OHIO ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER

PHOTOGRAPHY FOR ADVENTUROUS SOULS & REBELS AT HEART

Dealing with the Guilt of Eloping

Many couples choose to have a traditional wedding with all the bells and whistles: a white dress, a tuxedo, a big cake, and a reception with lots of dancing. But for some couples, the idea of a traditional wedding just doesn't fit. They may feel overwhelmed by the planning and expense, or they may simply want to do things their way.

For these couples, eloping can be a tempting option. Eloping means skipping the traditional wedding and instead getting married in a private ceremony, often with just the two of them and a witness or two. It can be a romantic and intimate way to exchange vows, and it can save a lot of stress and money.

But eloping can also come with a side of guilt. Many couples worry that their decision to elope will disappoint their families and friends, who were looking forward to celebrating with them. They may feel like they're breaking with tradition and going against the expectations of their loved ones.

If you're considering eloping, it's important to remember that your wedding is about you and your partner, not about pleasing others. It's your day, and you should do what makes you happy. But it can also be helpful to talk to your loved ones and let them know your plans. They may be disappointed at first, but they'll likely come around and be happy for you.

It's also important to remember that eloping doesn't have to mean skipping the celebration altogether. You can still have a reception or party after the fact, where you can share your news and celebrate with your loved ones. This can be a great way to include your friends and family on your special day, even if you decide to elope.

In the end, the most important thing is that you and your partner are happy and committed to each other. Whether you choose to elope or have a traditional wedding, what matters is the love and commitment you share. So don't let guilt hold you back from making the decision that's right for you.

Can I elope and keep some traditions?

Heck....... Yes, you can!

Eloping doesn't mean that you have to give up all the traditions of a wedding. In fact, many couples who choose to elope still incorporate some traditional elements into their ceremony.

One common tradition that many eloping couples keep is exchanging rings. This is a symbolic way of showing your commitment to each other and can be a beautiful moment in your ceremony. You can also choose to have a bouquet for the bride and a boutonniere for the groom, which can add a touch of elegance to your ceremony.

Another tradition that many eloping couples incorporate is having a witness or witnesses to the ceremony. This can be a friend or family member who is special to you, or it can be a professional officiant. Having a witness can add an extra layer of meaning to your ceremony and can make it feel more formal and official.

Another tradition that many eloping couples keep is having a reception or party after the ceremony. This can be a great way to celebrate your marriage with your loved ones and to share your news with them. You can still have a cake, dancing, and other elements of a traditional reception, even if you choose to elope.

In the end, the important thing is that your elopement ceremony feels special and meaningful to you and your partner. Whether you choose to incorporate traditional elements or do something completely unique, the most important thing is that it reflects your love and commitment to each other. So don't be afraid to keep some traditions, even if you choose to elope.

I am a LGBTQ+ friendly, body positive elopement, wedding and portrait photographer located in Cleveland, Ohio.

My mission is to create beautiful, authentic images that reflect my clients' uniqueness and celebrate love in all its forms.