Elopement is a term that refers to the practice of couples who decide, often without the approval of their families, to get married suddenly and secretly. It usually involves hastily leaving one’s hometown with one beloved in order to tie the knot without parental permission. This clandestine method of getting hitched has been utilized for centuries by lovers who are determined to be united despite outside disapproval. Many couples choose to elope rather than have a traditional wedding for a variety of reasons. Perhaps the thought of organizing and hosting a large, often expensive, event doesn’t appeal to them; or they may want to avoid the possible stress of planning such an occasion. Additionally, some couples simply prefer the intimacy and privacy that comes with eloping.
Whatever their reasons, it’s clear why many couples opt for this alternative route when deciding on how to tie the knot. For many, the idea of exchanging their wedding vows in Ireland has been a long-held dream; a romantic and unforgettable experience amidst the stunning beauty of this enchanting country. It’s possible that the Cliffs of Moher have been on their list for years as a potential location to tie the knot. No matter the motivations behind it, choosing to Elope to Ireland for your wedding ceremony will be a decision that you will never regret. Apart from saying “yes” and “I do” in the traditional sense, opting for an elopement in this beautiful country is sure to provide an unforgettable memory that you and your partner can cherish forever. The picturesque landscapes, sights, and sounds of Ireland are incomparable and make it the perfect destination for a special day of commitment and love.
Here are the 5 Tips to consider when planning your Ireland Elopement:
1. Weather
The Irish climate is notoriously fickle and always unpredictable; it’s a bit like opening up a box of chocolates – you never quite know what to expect! Despite this, I still think that the element of surprise and uncertainty adds to your Ireland elopement experience. After all, it’s part of the fun and excitement! One moment you are standing at the altar, relishing in the glory of a radiant sunbeam illuminating your surroundings and providing warmth to your skin; the next you find yourself marveling at an awe-inspiring rainbow stretching across the horizon. Generally speaking, if you are looking for warmer weather suitable for outdoor weddings then May, June, July, August, and September are your best months to do so.
2. Sunset Times
During the summer months here in Ireland, the sun doesn’t set until relatively late. Generally, during June, July, and August, you can expect the sun to remain in the sky until around 10 pm. On particularly sunny days, there is a chance that it could still be light outside at 11 pm. Consequently, if you’re keen on taking some pictures of a beautiful sunset then remember this when planning your photography session!
3. Sunrise Times
If you are eagerly awaiting a sunrise ceremony, the sun will make its appearance between five o’clock in the morning and six o’clock in the morning from May until August. During this period of time, you can expect to be able to witness a beautiful spectacle as day breaks and the sky is illuminated with light.
4. Ireland is big on locations
Ireland, although a relatively small country, offers an abundance of remarkable and awe-inspiring locations. From stunningly majestic mountain ranges to golden sandy beaches and lush green countryside, you really are spoiled for choice when it comes to the sheer variety of incredible places to explore in Ireland.
5. Elope on a weekday
On the weekends, Irish people are fond of visiting some stunning locations for eloping. To make sure that it is a peaceful and serene experience, couples should opt to elope on a weekday rather than during public holidays such as Easter week when places tend to be much more crowded due to kids being off school.
Why an elopement package is a wiser option in Ireland:
1. Elopements are permitted/legal
It’s understandable that some couples may think elopements are not real weddings, believing the ceremonies to be simply symbolic “blessings” and not legally binding. But this is a huge misconception – elopements are just as much of a valid marriage as any other wedding, and can absolutely be recognized by the state in the same way as any other nuptials. What a relief! You’ll be so pleasantly surprised to know that these marriages are completely legitimate.
If you desire, you can choose to have an elopement ceremony that lacks any legal standing whatsoever; however, if you wish to make your marriage official and legally binding, it is possible to have a fully legitimate and lawfully recognized elopement. The choice is yours.
2. You don’t have to leave your dearest people behind
Eloping is no longer seen as a clandestine or secretive affair. These days, it has evolved and couples have the option of celebrating their nuptials in a variety of ways that go beyond the traditional concept of eloping with just the two of you and an officiant in an isolated location where nobody else can find you. Couples are now able to choose how they want to share this special moment with family and friends, making it more personalized than ever before.
3. All the frills are still optional
Are you a girl who has always dreamed of a gorgeous, sumptuous white wedding gown and an extravagant, royal pampering treatment on the morning of your special day? Or perhaps a guy who sees his wedding as an opportunity to indulge in renting that beautiful Jaguar you’ve been dying to take for a spin? Either way, it’s okay to be excited about your big day! Indeed, elopements are primarily focused on avoiding excessive costs; however, that does not mean you must sacrifice the components of your special day which truly hold significance. You can still create a beautiful and meaningful celebration without spending a fortune.
4. Elopement package offers zero stress
Elopement packages offer an ultimate hassle-free way to pull off your big day without any worries – all the essentials for a seamless ceremony are ready and available. Guaranteed in each elopement package is every component necessary for you to relax, rejoice, and make lasting memories.
5. The ideal wedding providers are known by planners
Over the years, the wedding industry has evolved into an immense multi-billion-dollar marketplace, making it a daunting task for newly engaged couples to wade through the extensive array of wedding professionals (and hobbyists!) in order to locate and hire the right vendors. Even more challenging is finding suitable service providers when opting for an elopement, as these smaller ceremonies often require more specialized services than larger weddings demand.
6. Fit your wedding budget
If you’re looking to save money, then simple mathematics can provide a great solution: If you initially had a budget of $20,000 for a traditional wedding, then opting for an elopement package can easily reduce that cost by half or even more. An elopement package wedding has the potential to significantly cut down your expenses and give you far more financial freedom during your special day. When budgeting for an elopement, the primary focus is on subtracting the unnecessary costs which would be associated with having a traditional wedding. Rather than trying to calculate and add up the infinite expenses that often come with a larger ceremony, couples opting to elope can save money by simply eliminating those items they deem inconsequential or extraneous.
7. Get the intimacy your wedding deserves
Don’t let yourself forget that your wedding day is all about the two of you, not about pleasing your family, friends, or any other guests. It’s essential that we recognize this fact and make sure it is honored during the celebration. There should be a focus on the love between you and your partner—nothing else matters more than that. Deep within your soul, you know that the primary motivation for getting married is to make solemn pledges and promises that are only meant for you and your partner. By exchanging these vows, you will be bound together in a mutual union of trust, commitment, and love.
8. Honeymoon and wedding become one
Finally, you no longer need to worry about setting a separate budget or dedicating extra time to plan a honeymoon. They have specifically designed your elope-in-Ireland packages with couples in mind; carefully selecting venues that not only provide an amazing venue for your nuptials but also an incredible honeymoon experience afterward!
