Elopements have come a long way from the days of getting married at the local courthouse to the last-minute trip to Las Vegas and maybe getting married by an Elvis impersonator. And although elopements have evolved over the years, myths still linger. Somewhere along the line, eloping got labeled as selfish, secretive, or “less than” a traditional wedding. The truth? Modern elopements are intentional, meaningful, and with deep personal meanings to them that look nothing like the outdated stereotypes. Let’s clear the air and break down 6 Elopement Myths That Need to Die.
Myth #1: Elopements Are Just Running Away
The myth about elopements as just “running away” is an outdated myth rooted in old social norms. Historically, couples sometimes choose to elope was to escape disapproving families, getting a young lady pregnant or strict cultural expectations, which gave elopements a bad name and a rebellious reputation. Today, however, most elopements are actually intentional and planned out. They are often thoughtfully planned celebrations that focus on intimacy and authenticity of the wedding ceremony rather than secrecy, which elopements of the past were… secret. Now, couples choose to elope not to hide, but to prioritize their relationship, reduce stress, avoid large wedding costs, or create a meaningful experience in a setting they love. Far from being impulsive or irresponsible, modern elopements are often deeply personal and empowering choices.
Myth #2: Elopements Aren’t “Real” Weddings
The idea that elopements aren’t “real” has been around for ages and are part of outdated traditions. In reality, a wedding is defined by the commitment being made to each other for a lifetime and not the size of your guest list or the scale of it all. As mentioned, today elopements are intentional, deeply personal experiences where couples choose intimacy, meaning, and authenticity over spectacle. Whether it’s on a mountaintop, on a beach, or at a courthouse, the exchanged vows carry just as much weight as those spoken in a church or a grand ballroom. A wedding is real because of the love and promises shared, not because of how many people are watching. On a similar note, when Covid hit in 2020, wedding ceremonies were cut back to short intimate ceremonies called Micro Weddings, which is very similar to a modern-day elopement but usually took place in a quiet backyard or something similar.
Myth #3: You Can’t Include Family or Friends
The myth that you can’t include family or friends in an elopement simply isn’t true. While elopements are often thought of as just the couple running off alone, modern elopements are about intention, not isolation. Often times, couples choose to invite a small group of their closest friends and/or family to witness their vows, have a meal, or celebrate in a meaningful way that is important to the married couple. An elopement can be as private or as inclusive as you want. It’s about creating a day that feels authentic and stress-free, not about excluding the people who matter most.
Myth #4: Elopements Are Only for Adventurous Couples
The myth that elopements are for only adventurous couples is not only a true myth but overlooks the true heart of what an elopement really is… a marriage. Now you will come across eloping couples that are adventurous, or having their ceremony on a beach or mountaintop, but it’s actually rare. Most couples we have taken their wedding photos, are quite opposite of adventurous. For them, it was more about the intimacy and freedom that an elopement allowed them. For others, they simply did not want a large group, the pomp & circumstance with a wedding or simply it was outside their budget. At its core, eloping is about creating a wedding experience that feels authentic and personal, not about how daring the setting may be.
Myth #5: Elopements Are Cheap and Last an Hour
One of the biggest myths about elopements is that they’re cheap and only last an hour. That’s because back in the day an elopement was something that was done because you were in a hurry before the families found out. While elopements can be more budget-flexible than traditional weddings, they aren’t automatically inexpensive. Couples getting married often invest in meaningful details such as travel, photography, attire, florals, and personalized experiences that make the day special. And far from being a quick and rushed event. Elopements aren’t about cutting corners—they’re about intentionally crafting a wedding day that feels authentic and unforgettable.
Myth #6: Elopement Photography Is “Just a Few Photos”
One of the biggest misconceptions about elopement photography is that it’s “just a few photos.” In reality, elopements often require even more intentional storytelling than traditional weddings. Without a large guest list or rigid timeline, the day is built around meaningful moments such as the private vows, perhaps sunsets or sunrises, a quiet hike to a scenic overlook, or an intimate first dance under the stars. Elopement photographers don’t simply show up and snap a handful of images; they help plan timelines, scout locations, navigate permits, and capture the full emotional arc of the day. The result isn’t just a few photos; it’s a carefully documented experience that reflects the couple’s unique story from beginning to end. I guess in many ways, elopement photography is a lot more intricate than the same old wedding ceremony photos.
So… What Is an Elopement Really?
An elopement is an intentionally small, intimate wedding focused on the couple’s connection rather than a large guest list or elaborate 
production. While the term once implied running away in secret, today it usually means choosing a meaningful, low-stress way to get married, that is often with just two partners, an officiant, and perhaps a handful of loved ones. Elopements can happen anywhere, from a courthouse to a mountaintop, and they prioritize authenticity, flexibility, and personal experience over tradition.
At its heart, an elopement is about stripping away expectations and celebrating commitment in a way that feels true to the couple. Without the pressure of planning a big event, couples often find they can be more present, spontaneous, and intentional. Whether it’s exchanging vows at sunrise on a beach or in a quiet forest clearing, an elopement centers on the meaning of the moment rather than the scale of the celebration.
Is an Elopement Right for You?
If all that intimacy and simplicity sums up you and your partner up, then an elopement over a grand ceremony might be right for you. It can also be a great option if you love the idea of exchanging vows in a meaningful location with just the two of you (or a small handful of loved ones). If you and your partner are all about creating a day that feels authentic and intentional, and centered on your relationship, then take it into consideration for your big moment.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, elopements aren’t about hiding. They’re about choosing what truly matters: love, connection, and authenticity. They’re intentional, meaningful, and entirely your own. So, forget the myths, let them die and skip the stress, and celebrate your marriage on your terms — because a wedding is real when it’s real to you.
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About the Author:
Jerrick O’Connor is the owner of Three16 Photography and has 15 years of experience in the world of photography. He specializes in Weddings, Engagements, Family and Corporate photography and loves connecting small business owners with other small business owners in hopes they can benefit each other’s production. When he’s not working, you can find him spending time with his wife Josie, playing board games or just spending time with his many friends.
