Dreaming of an international elopement? While it can be a bit daunting to figure out at first, the idea of getting married in the place of your dreams is also incredibly exciting! Whether you envision a ceremony surrounded by the Swiss alps, an adventure in Iceland complete with the northern lights or vows exchanged next to a palm tree in the Maldives, planning an international elopement requires some important preparation, but nothing out of reach! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you start planning your dream elopement day abroad.
Define Your Vision for your International Elopement
Clarify Your Dream Destination and Experience
Begin by envisioning what your ideal international elopement looks like. Consider the following:
- Destination: Research potential countries and locations that resonate with you both. Think about climate, level of travel, cultural significance, and personal preferences.
- Setting: Do you imagine a secluded beach, endless mountain views, or maybe both!?
Feeling: How do you want this day to feel, and will the country + location you’re choosing, aid in creating that feeling?
Tip: Create a vision board or Pinterest board with images and ideas that capture your dream elopement. This will help you communicate your vision with vendors.
Budget and Financial Planning for your International Elopement
An international elopement can vary significantly in cost. Consider the following expenses:
Travel: Flights, accommodation, and transportation.
Vendors: Photographer, officiant, florist, and any other services.
Attire and Accessories: Wedding attire, accessories, and any required paperwork.
Tip: Build a contingency fund for unexpected expenses. Having a clear budget will help you make informed decisions and avoid overspending.
Understand Legal Requirements for Marriage Abroad
Research Local Regulations and Legalities
Different countries have varying requirements for marriage:
Documentation: Research the necessary documents, such as passports, birth certificates, or affidavits of eligibility.
Legal Process: Some countries require additional steps or processes for foreigners to marry legally.
Marriage Registration: Ensure you understand how and where to register your marriage both abroad and in your home country.
If you want to avoid the complexities of getting married abroad, signing the paperwork at home is a great way to simplify things and still make it legal, too!
Tip: Contact the local embassy or consulate of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Choose Your Vendors for your International Elopement
Finding the right vendors is crucial for a great elopement experience.
Photographer/Videographer: I personally work with all of my couples to research the best locations, activities, vendors, wedding legalities etc for their elopement. While I’m usually the bigger ticket item for couples elopements, I also help with many things that generally take away the need for hiring a full on planner. While not all photographers work like this, it’s best to hire your photographer first so that you don’t book a planner if not necessary!
Guides: Depending on the location and activities for your elopement, you may need to hire a guide. For example, if you decide to do an ice cave adventure in Iceland, or a sea kayaking adventure through Norway’s fjords, or want to hike a Via Feratta in Italy, it might be best to hire a professional guide to lead you through those adventures.
Officiant: Ensure the officiant is legally qualified to perform the ceremony in the destination country. Or if you choose to do the paperwork at home, you can read vows and design the ceremony that you’d like to have just between the two of you!
Tip: Read reviews, request portfolios, and have virtual meetings to ensure you’re comfortable with your chosen vendors.
Planning the Timeline for your International Elopement
Develop a detailed itinerary for your elopement day:
Timeline: Outline the schedule for the day so that you’re sure you have time for everything you want coverage of, and everything you want to experience on your day! This is something your photographer should help you with once you’ve chosen specific locations and activities for the day.
Transportation: Consider any travel needs. If you’re not comfortable driving in another country, perhaps hire a driver that can make that experience less stressful for you.
Meals and Celebrations: Plan for any meals through the day, such as a romantic dinner, local dining experience, or a sweet picnic! If you’re in a quieter area, it’s a good idea to have some snacks + meals at your hotel/airbnb so that you have something to munch on if everything is closed!
Preparing for your International Elopement Departure:
Travel Documents: Double-check passport validity, visas, and any other required documents. Most countries require that your passport is valid for at least 6 months, so if you’re close to expiration, it might be best to get a new one!
Packing List: Pack your wedding attire carefully, along with any essentials for the ceremony and travel. I always recommend bringing any essential wedding day things as a carry on!
Health and Safety: Consider travel insurance, vaccinations, and health precautions for the destination.
Tip: Make copies of important documents and keep them in a separate location from the originals.
Sharing the news of your International Elopement:
If you’re eloping internationally, you might want to keep family and friends in the loop:
Announcements: Decide if and how you want to announce your elopement to loved ones.
Celebrations: Plan a post-elopement celebration or gathering to share your special day with those who couldn’t join you abroad.
Tip: Consider live-streaming the ceremony or sharing updates through social media to include your loved ones in your celebration.
Embrace the Experience of your International Elopement!
After all of the planning, organizing and prepping for your international elopement, the day has finally come! Take time to enjoy the scenery and experience the place you’re in. An international elopement is a once in a lifetime experience, so make sure you fully soak it all in!
Tip: Don’t stress over the small details—focus on celebrating your love and the adventure you’re sharing together. Some things are bound to go against the plan, but the more you can stay flexible and roll with the punches, the more you’ll enjoy your experience!
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to planning a seamless and unforgettable international elopement. Embrace the journey, savor every moment, and enjoy the adventure of starting your married life in a beautiful and exotic destination.
For help getting started on planning your international elopement, come say hi!