In the realm of modern weddings, the allure of adventure elopements and adventure weddings is steadily rising. Couples are increasingly drawn to the idea of exchanging vows in breathtaking natural settings, surrounded by the beauty of the great outdoors. Yet, amidst the romantic notion of an intimate celebration, one question looms large: Is eloping really cheaper than a traditional wedding? In this guide, we'll delve into the details, uncovering the average costs of various elopement vendors and breaking down the expenses involved in planning an adventure elopement.

Debunking myths about elopement costs

Before we delve into the average costs of elopement vendors, it's essential to debunk a common myth. Many people believe that eloping inevitably leads to substantial cost savings. However, this notion is not entirely accurate. While elopements can indeed be more budget-friendly than traditional weddings, the total expenditure varies based on individual preferences and priorities.

On average, an adventure elopement may cost between $10,000 to $18,000. This figure is significantly lower than the average cost of a traditional wedding, which typically exceeds $34,385 in Washington State (source). It's crucial to recognize that modern-day elopements have evolved far beyond simply running off to the courthouse and paying for a marriage license. Instead, they involve crafting an outdoor-focused wedding experience that authentically reflects the couple's identity and values. Learn more about the meaning of eloping.

That said, let's take a closer look at these figures and explore the factors that contribute to the final tally.

Breaking down the elopement cost

Let’s begin by exploring some fundamental elements that, in our opinion, contribute to the magic of a wedding or elopement. These elements aren't drastically different from those of a traditional wedding, but they are essential components that help shape your special day. Central to these components are the vendors you choose to work with. This is where you have the opportunity to prioritize what matters most to you as a couple.

Consider this: if you're opting for an adventure elopement in a breathtaking location, a skilled photographer becomes invaluable. Their ability to capture the stunning scenery and intimate moments of your day ensures that you'll have tangible memories to cherish for a lifetime. After all, while memories may fade, photographs endure. They serve as timeless reminders of your most cherished moments, allowing you to revisit them with your loved ones and even share them with future generations.

That's why finding a photographer that resonates with you on a personal level is crucial. Their work should not only showcase technical proficiency but also evoke emotion and encapsulate the essence of your love story. When you look back at your wedding photographs, you want to be transported back to those beautiful moments, reliving the joy, laughter, and love that filled your hearts on that magical day. So, take your time to find a photographer whose style and vision align with yours, ensuring that every frame captures the true spirit of your adventure elopement.

The basics: Vendors you’ll need to plan an adventure elopement

Elopement Photographer

Depending on your location, the cost of hiring an adventure elopement photographer can indeed vary significantly. In the Pacific Northwest (PNW), where we primarily operate, prices typically range from $4,200 to as high as $10,000. These rates can be influenced by various factors, including the photographer's level of experience, the duration of coverage required, and the specific location of the elopement.

Factors such as extended hours of coverage or the need to travel to remote or inaccessible locations can also impact the pricing structure. Photographers often adjust their rates to accommodate such circumstances, reflecting the additional time and effort required to capture the perfect shots in these unique settings.

Here at Running Wild Studio, we pride ourselves on offering more than just photography services. In addition to capturing your special moments, we also serve as your planners and day-of coordinators. Our goal is to ensure that every aspect of your elopement is meticulously planned and executed, allowing you to relax and fully immerse yourselves in the experience. By providing comprehensive support and guidance, we strive to create a seamless and stress-free wedding day for you to cherish forever.

Want to know more about our pricing? Elopement Packages and Pricing

Elopement Wedding Attire

Stylish and elegant wedding attire doesn't necessarily come with a hefty price tag. In our experience, couples typically allocate between $2,000 to $3,000 for their wedding attire. While browsing through wedding dress options, you may have noticed that prices can skyrocket, reaching as high as $10,000 or more for designer gowns. However, the majority of our brides find their dream dresses for around $2,000, including necessary alterations to ensure a perfect fit.

For couples seeking more budget-friendly options, there are plenty of alternatives available. Online retailers such as Etsy, Lulu’s, Asos, David's Bridal, and BHLDN offer a wide selection of beautiful dresses at prices under $800. These affordable options allow couples to achieve their desired look without breaking the bank. Whether you opt for a designer gown or choose a more affordable option, the most important thing is to find a dress that makes you feel confident and radiant on your special day.

Are you dress shopping? Check out our Best Elopement Dresses blog.

Elopement Permits

Many natural settings, such as national parks, State Parks, and wilderness areas require permits for elopements. Permit fees vary but can range from $0 to $500, depending on the location.

Marriage License

Expect to pay $50 to $100 for a marriage license, depending on the county.

Elopement officiant

Officiant fees for adventure elopements can vary significantly, ranging from $0 for a friend or family member to $1,000 for professional services, which may include accompanying you on hikes or other outdoor activities. However, if you're looking to keep costs down, we highly recommend enlisting the services of a friend or family member to officiate your ceremony. Not only does this option often come at no additional cost, but it also adds a personal and meaningful touch to your special day.

Lodging

If you're planning an adventure elopement in a picturesque location, chances are you'll want to extend your stay beyond just a single day. The cost of lodging can vary depending on the specific area and the accommodations you choose. On average, couples typically spend between $250 and $1,000 on lodging for their elopement adventure. However, these expenses can fluctuate based on factors such as the duration of your stay, the type of lodging (e.g., hotel, cabin, Airbnb), and the seasonality of the destination.

Travel

Traveling adds a unique and exciting dimension to your adventure elopement, but it does come with associated costs. Depending on your plans and preferences, travel expenses can range anywhere from $500 to $15,000. The variability in costs is influenced by factors such as whether the couple needs to fly to their destination, the duration of their stay, accommodations (such as multiple nights in Airbnb or hotel stays), and whether the elopement takes place in another country.

However, there are strategies to mitigate travel expenses and save money. For instance, couples can leverage flyer miles credit cards to earn rewards for future travel, request money or Airbnb gift cards as wedding presents from friends and family, or explore budget-friendly options for rental cars. Additionally, if travel isn't a priority, couples can opt for a location near their residence and turn the elopement into a weekend getaway, eliminating the need for extensive travel expenses.

Ultimately, the decision to include travel costs in your elopement budget depends on your priorities and preferences. Whether you choose to embark on a grand adventure or keep things closer to home, there are options to tailor your elopement experience to fit within your budget while still creating unforgettable memories.

Additional elopement vendors

Now that we've covered the essential components of any adventure elopement or intimate wedding, let's explore the additional elements that can elevate your day to something truly extraordinary. These are the finishing touches, the cherry on top, or as some might say, the glitter on the unicorn.

Florals

Floral arrangements add beauty and elegance to your elopement setting. Prices for florals vary depending on your preferences and requirements. Most couples opt for a bouquet and a boutonnière, which typically cost between $400 and $500. However, some couples choose to incorporate additional floral decor for their ceremony or reception, which can increase costs. For those looking to save money, alternatives such as dried bouquets from Etsy or DIY floral arrangements can be more budget-friendly, costing approximately $100 to $250. 

Food

Including food in your elopement plans is essential to keep everyone fueled and happy throughout the day. Whether you opt for a picnic for two or a meal shared with family and friends, the options are endless. Prices for food can vary widely depending on your choices, ranging from $500 for takeout to $3,000 for a private chef experience.

Videographer

Hiring a videographer is a wonderful way to capture the moments and emotions of your special day. Rates for videographers in the Pacific Northwest typically range from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on factors such as location, package options, and the videographer's experience.

Wedding Cake

Cutting a wedding cake together is a sweet tradition that can add a touch of romance to your elopement. Prices for wedding cakes vary depending on the design and complexity, typically ranging from $500 to $1,000 for a custom creation. For those looking to save money, opting for a simple cake from the grocery store can cost as little as $40.

Hair & Makeup

Looking your best on your wedding day is important, and professional hair and makeup services can help you achieve your desired look. Costs for hair and makeup services range from $300 to $1,500, depending on factors such as the extent of services required, whether there's a team involved, and any additional travel expenses. For couples looking to save money, DIY options or enlisting the help of a skilled friend can be more budget-friendly.

Planner

While elopement planners are available, some couples may choose to forgo this expense, especially if working with a vendor like Running Wild Studio, where planning services are included. Typically, elopement planners can cost between $2,000 and $10,000.

Decor

While not essential, decor can enhance the ambiance and aesthetic of your elopement setting. Prices for decor items can range from $100 to $5,000, depending on your preferences and the extent of decoration desired.

Activities

One of the perks of choosing an adventure elopement is the freedom to tailor your day to your interests and passions. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or prefer a more relaxed experience, there are endless possibilities for activities. Costs for activities can vary widely, from free hikes to pricey helicopter rides costing thousands of dollars.

So, is eloping cheaper than a traditional wedding?

Yes, in general, eloping tends to be much more cost-effective than a traditional wedding. One of the primary reasons for this is the significantly smaller guest list. With elopements, you typically don't have to accommodate a large number of guests, which means you save on expenses such as catering, venue rentals, and decor.

When you elope, you're also free from the pressure of having to decorate a big venue with thousands of flowers and arrangements. Instead of focusing on elaborate decorations, you can allocate your budget towards creating a unique and meaningful wedding experience that reflects your personalities and desires as a couple.

Whether you choose to exchange vows atop a mountain peak, embark on a guided tour of a national park, or take a helicopter ride to a glacier ceremony location, the possibilities are endless. Your elopement or intimate wedding can be a reflection of your love story and a celebration of your adventurous spirit.

By embracing the flexibility and freedom that eloping offers, you have the opportunity to craft a day that you'll never forget. Whether it's an intimate ceremony in a stunning natural setting or a spontaneous adventure to a dream destination, your wedding day can be whatever you envision it to be.

So, seize the moment, create memories that will last a lifetime, and embark on the adventure of a lifetime with the one you love.