New Year's Eve Elopement Link Love

Happy New Year everyone!  I hope that your holidays have been filled with lots of food, friends, laughter, and most of all, LOVE.  There are only a few more days before the big ball drops and for all of you that might be planning that last minute New Year's Eve elopement, I rounded up some of my favorite links that feature some fabulous inspiration.

Green Wedding Shoes has tips for a sparkly fête.

Wedding Chicks shows us golden ideas for a New Year's Eve wedding.

If you're seeking a little goth inspo for your elopement, look no further than Ruffled.

The sweetest Real Elopement that happened on New Year's Eve.

I'm completely smitten with this sweet Real Elopement in New York.

Not really an elopement but a fantastic New Year's Eve wedding with wedding tattoos on Offbeat Bride.

Real Elopement Inspiration - Jennifer + James: France

Today's inspiration comes from Wedding Light by way of Wedding Light Events.  Jennifer + James eloped to the very romantic gardens of Marie-Antoinette.

Their elopement was so simple, so sweet, and radiated with love.  I especially loved the part with the tourists jumping in for a picture.  Adorable.

Elopement Announcement Wording

elopement announcement from LawStudentCrafts on Etsy

Hooray!  You decided to elope.  Now you want to share the news all of your loved ones.  Here are some examples of wording you can use in your elopement announcement.

❤❤❤❤❤

Although we couldn’t have

you there in person,

you were with us

on our special day!

We were married on 

Tuesday, September 18th, 2012

San Francisco, California

Our new residence:

Lynn and Dominic McNandez

742 Evergreen Terrace

Springfield, OR

❤❤❤❤❤

Because you’ve shared in our lives

by your friendship and love, we are

very proud to share the happy news.

Lynn Inez Warren

and

Dominic Roque McNandez

were married in a small wedding

on Tuesday the Eighteenth of September

2012

Paris, France

Our new residence:

Lynn and Dominic McNandez

742 Evergreen Terrace

Springfield, OR

❤❤❤❤❤

With stars in their eyes

and love in their hearts,

Lynn Warren

and

Dominic McNandez

were married on

September 18, 2012

in New Orleans, Louisiana

Lynn & Dominic are now at home

at 742 Evergreen Terrace

Springfield, Oregon

❤❤❤❤❤

"Grow old along with me!

The best is yet to be..."

— Robert Browning

With great love

we joyfully announce

our marriage,

which took place

Tuesday, September 18

2012

at City Hall

New York, New York

Lynn Inez Warren

and

Dominic Roque McNandez

❤❤❤❤❤

Making their friendship so true after great

times and happiness, they’ve said

“I do!”

Lynn & Dominic

were married on

September 18, 2012

Miami, Florida

Please join us at a

Brunch Reception

on Saturday, October 6, 2012

at 10:00 a.m.

Gotham Hall

1356 Broadway

New York, NY

You can find more elopement announcement wording ideas here and here.  Also, see some visual elopement announcement inspiration here.

5 Different Elopement Packages for Under $1000

image courtesy Murski Homestead Bed & Breakfast

Who says you can't get married for under $1000?

1. San Francisco, CA - Hornblower Cruises Elopement Package
This package is perfect for you seafaring couples looking to elope.  You get a dockside ceremony for just the two of you performed by the yacht's uniformed captain, up to 30 minutes of private yacht time, chocolate truffles, a bottle of champagne, 2 keepsake champagne flutes, and a reserved window table.

2. Miami, FL - Intimate Miami Beach Weddings
Want to elope on the beach?  Get some sand between your toes?  Here you go.  This package includes your officiant, a small fresh flower bouquet for the bride, keepsake copy of your vows, they'll process the wedding license paperwork for you, 1/2 hour of photography with a high-res CD of at least 50 images, and planning/consultant time.

3. smack dab in between Austin and Houston, TX - Murski Homestead Bed & Breakfast
Planning a romantic Texas elopement?  This "Just the Two of You enhanced" package sounds quite lovely.  The package includes ceremony in the setting of your choice, your officiant, a photograph CD with photos that will be taken by the Innkeeper, a hand-tied fresh bouquet for the bride, a boutonniere for the groom, petite wedding cake, champagne or sparkling juice toast, overnight stay in one of their guest rooms, and breakfast delivered to your room the following morning.

4. Los Angeles, CA - Albertson Chapel
I'm looking at you, urban love couples. Albertson Chapel has some customizable options for you.  I started with the Basic Civil Ceremony which includes the venue (prime Miracle Mile location), your officiant, designer fresh flower decor, private bridal room, wedding coordinators, free parking, and free wi-fi.  Then I added The Chapel Package for some wedding portraits and the Priscilla bouquet option that included a bouquet and matching boutonniere.  All totaled, the cost was still under $1000 for a romantic elopement for two.

5. Las Vegas, NV - A Little White Chapel
Don't worry, I didn't forget about those of you wanting a Las Vegas elopement!  If you're gonna do it, why not do it right and elope to A Little White Chapel.  At one of the most famous chapels in Las Vegas, choose the Romance Package and you'll receive the chapel fee included in the price, traditional music, a witness if needed, 36 professional photographs, a bridal bouquet, a boutonniere, bride's garter, and a DVD of the ceremony.

Please check each business's website for up-to-date package information and pricing.

Real Elopement Inspiration - Stephanie + Chris: Lake Tahoe Cliff

Today's Real Elopement Inspiration comes to you courtesy of Logan Cole. Stephanie + Chris eloped on a cliff in Lake Tahoe and the pictures couldn't be more beautiful.  Pine trees, snow-capped mountain backdrop, shimmering Lake Tahoe.... sigh.  Here are some of my faves from their day.

I really feel like that last image does a great job of capturing what eloping is really all about.  Just you and your beloved, no distractions, no drama, just simply enjoying each other.  

There are several more images of their day over on Logan's blog.  Go check it out now!

Perfect Bohemian Elopement Dresses

Ladies! I just happened upon a treasure trove of fabulous bohemian style dress that would be perfect for you to elope in.  Imagine with me for a moment - a green field full of tall grass, your officiant, your soulmate, and you in one of these dreamy frocks.

and my faaaaavorite......

If you're searching for other Elopement Dress ideas, go here to see my past inspiration posts.

Destination: Big Bear, California

I have to confess, you guys.  I am still daydreaming over the snowy elopement ideas.  AND my handy little stat meter tells me some of you are looking for Big Bear elopement information so this post is for you.

image courtesy Sara Lucero

What's to love: Perfect for the nature lovers - winter, spring, summer, or fall.  Big Bear has so many options to choose from if you want to get married outside: in the forest, in a meadow, by Big Bear Lake... Big Bear has it all.  There are a ton of romantical cabins you can rent for just the two of you.  Many of them are pet friendly, just in case you want to bring Fido as your witness to your elopement.  Some of them even have private outdoor jacuzzi's - so perfect in the winter time!

What you'll need and what you need to know:  

• There are two types of marriage licenses in the state of California - public and confidental.  
• For a public license: $88, open to the public, may be used anywhere in the State of California, one witness required (besides person performing ceremony).
• For a confidential license: $90, not open to the public, photocopies issued to couple only, ceremony must take place in San Bernardino County, no witnesses required, applicants must be living together as husband and wife. Note: Confidential marriage licenses are also offered by certain authorized notaries. For a list of San Bernardino County authorized notaries by location, please click here.  TIP: Some officiants can provide a private license for you.
• Applicants must be an unmarried man and an unmarried woman and at least 18 years of age with a valid photo ID.
• If either of you have been divorced or had an annulment within the last year, you will need to bring a certified copy of the Judgment of Annulment or Final Decree of Dissolution before issuing a license.
• At this time, California does not support same sex marriages.
• Unusual need: All persons who are members of a religious society or denomination not having clergy for the purpose of solemnizing marriages, must let the clerk know they need a VS 115 form (Family Code, Section 425).
• You two lovebirds will have to go to the San Bernadino County Clerk's office together. First call 909-387-8334 to schedule an appointment from Monday-Friday 8:00a-3:30p except holidays.
• When you're there, you'll be directed toward a kiosk to fill out a questionnaire.  TIP: Go here to read the questions and have your answers ready to save time.

Helpful Links:

San Bernadino County County Clerk

Pet friendly accommodations in Big Bear

Big Bear Wedding Officiants

And one more Big Bear elopement shot, just cause....

image courtesy J and J Creative

Wedding Ring Alternative

image courtesy Offbeatbride.com

There are many reasons one would choose not to wear a wedding ring - comfort, medical, work, lifestyle, or matters of principle being the majority of them.  You can still show your lifelong commitment to your spouse by sporting a wedding tattoo.  Here are a few options to get the cogs turning in your brain if you are feeling like a traditional wedding band may not be for you.

Source: thenicholsblog.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest

LOVING this Owl + Tree tattoo.  Check out the adorable couple behind them here.

Source: flickr.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest

Matching Infinity symbol tattoos.  Saying forever in more ways than one.

Source: ratemyink.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest

I super love the story behind why this gentleman chose to have E2 tattooed instead of wearing a wedding ring.  He says, "I'm married 32 years, I don't wear a wedding band. I'm Ernie my wife's name is Elaine. Hense E Squared....". CUTE!

Source: ratemyink.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest

And how cool is this? A diamond tattoo instead of a real diamond? This diamond really is forever.

Destination: Anywhere Snowy!

It's almost winter - I know, I know, Autumn hasn't even officially begun yet - but I've already got the winter  itch.  No, not the dry, flaky skin winter itch... the sweaters and boots and hot chocolate and gray day itch.  This is not going to be my typical Destination post as this post isn't destination specific.  This post is more to sway those who think they have to either head to the courthouse or wait until spring to elope outdoors.

image courtesy Carly Mitchell Photography

How cute are those two? LOVING the faux fur throw detail. Perfect to protect your tushy from catching a chill.

image courtesy Green Wedding Shoes, Jenny Haas, & Ashley Krogman Designs

What's that I spy with my little eye?  A bouquet made from pine cones, twigs, and ribbon.  Chic AND cheap.  Snaps all around.

image courtesy Peter Bang Photography

What a lucky couple - snow is actually falling for their photographs!

image courtesy Green Wedding Shoes & Benji Haisch

Wedding snow boots! Falling snow! Smiley-happy couple! *swoon*

image courtesy Orange Girl Photographs

The red in that cape makes a lovely contrast against an almost all white background.


So go ahead, plan your winter elopement and send me the pics after!

Elopement Announcement Inspiration!

image courtesy jesslively.com

If you've been searching the web, as I have, for fun elopement announcements, you've probably found that there are slim pickings.  I saw some fun Save-the-Date ideas that could easily translate into elopement announcements. Take a peek at these and get some inspiration!

Source: urbanstyleblog.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest

Source: weheartit.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest

Source: bellethemagazine.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest

Source: bellethemagazine.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest

Engaging Style - Moissanite

Don't want a diamond engagement ring? Behold! Moissanite - born of meteorite with more fire than a diamond. These unique engagement rings all feature a unique center stone - moissanite. Never considered any other stone besides a diamond? Moissanite makes a fabulous alternative to often over-priced diamonds.  It's a tough gem ranking in at 9.25 on the Mohs hardness scale (diamond is 10.0 and sapphire is 9.0) which means it's extremely resistant to scratches.  I invite you to open your mind to this beautiful stone.

Source: etsy.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest

Eloping the Old-y Fashioned-y Way! At the Courthouse!

I'm not talking as old fashioned as the groom crawling up a ladder to your bedroom in your parents castle and whisking you away in the dark of the night, I'm talking as simple and as old fashioned as just the two of you heading to the courthouse and tying the knot.  It's stress free.  You can dress up or dress down.  And best of all, it's budget friendly.  How could you not fall in love with this idea?

Check out this real elopement from Adam + Emily whose wedding was featured on Style Me Pretty.  These gorgeous shots were taken by Tana Photography.

 

Destination: North Carolina

image courtesy of BBOnline/Timber Wolf Creek Bed & Breakfast

What's to love:  Can this state have any more romantic elopement locations?  Seriously.  I am swooning here as I ponder all of the possibilities.  Beaches, grand estates, wineries, quaint little cabin in the forest, in the mountains, or next to a bubbling stream.  This state is bursting with elopement packages for those who want the no muss, no fuss treatment.

What you'll need and what you need to know: 

• You do not need to be a resident of North Carolina to elope.
• The location of where to go to get your license varies from county to county.  Simply Google the county you have chosen to elope to and "marriage license application" to find your local bureau.
• You must be 18 years of age to get married and will need to show proof of age.  Accepted forms of identification are drivers license, passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate.  North Carolina does allow marriages of those 16-18 years of age under special circumstances.  Please go here for more information.  Applicants 18-21 years of age must show certified birth certificate.
• You will both also need to show proof of your social security number.  Social security card, paycheck stub, or W-2 are all acceptable forms of proof.
• If either of you were married before, you will need to list the official divorce date.  If you were divorced in the 30 days prior to your elopement, you will need to show a signed copy of the divorce decree.
• No blood tests are required.
• At this time, North Carolina does not allow same sex marriages.
• The fee for the license is $60 and payable by cash only. 
• Witnesses are required.  You will need two of them.
• There is NO waiting period once your license is issued.
• Want a courthouse wedding in front of the magistrate? The fee is only $20 + the license fee.
• Your license is valid for 60 days.

Helpful links:

• North Carolina Elopement Packages - (just a few to get you started) Big Mill Bed & Breakfast, Mountain Magnolia Inn & Retreat, or Spring House Farm.  Google is full of them!
• North Carolina Magistrates Association

Elopement Style for Her - 6/28/12

In case you didn't know, NOW (late spring/early summer) is the time to be looking for white/ivory/light color dresses for your elopement.  Before long, the stores will be switching over to fall colors and pickings for a non-wedding dress will start to get super slim. 

Today I bring you some of my favorite picks from Urban Outfitters that would be perfect for eloping in!

Pins and Needles Crochet Top Chiffon Dress 

Source: urbanoutfitters.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest

TBA Silk Scalloped Ella Dress 

Source: urbanoutfitters.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest

Thistlepearl Idyll Dress 

Source: urbanoutfitters.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest

Pins and Needles Cotton Eyelet Strapless Dress 

Source: urbanoutfitters.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest

Announcing your Elopement

image courtesy of Lynn McCurdy/Pinterest

You've made the decision to let your loved ones know that you and your sweetie have eloped.  One of the ways you can let everyone know at once is the elopement announcement.  Similar to the wedding announcement/invitation, the wording is just a little different - rather than saying "please come to our wedding", you might say "we eloped" instead.  Here we've got some really creative elopement announcements from around the web.

How cute are these kitties? These announcements are fully customizable as far as the text goes. Maybe you've written a cute little poem about your day?  Get it printed on the inside!

Cat Bride and Groom Elopement Announcement - by AllabouttheWedding 

Source: zazzle.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest

We've ANTELOPED! Get it?  Hahaha!  

Elopement Announcement - We've Eloped - by hellosmallworld 

Source: etsy.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest

These letterpress announcements are simply lovely.  Alissa was able to carry the theme of the elopement through quite nicely.   

A Road Trip Elopement Announcement - by Alissa Bell Press 

Source: greenweddingshoes.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest

 Photo announcements are great because even though all of your family and friends couldn't be there, they can still get a visual of your big day. 

Mod Love Elopement Announcement - use your own photo - by FotoCrush 

Source: etsy.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest

 And for you DIY'ers out there, here's an option for you. 

We've Eloped Elopement Announcement DIY Printables - by DeFine1Lady 

Source: etsy.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest

Destination: Las Vegas

image courtesy of Jim Wilson/The New York Times

What's to love: First of all, it's so easy! That's why loved up couples have been running off to this town for decades. Besides that, there are a myriad of options for the type of wedding you can have: in a chapel, drive-through chapel, in a helicopter, on the strip, off the strip, in one of the flashy casino resorts, or outside underneath the "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign! 

What you'll need and what you'll need to know:

• To obtain your marriage license, you and your beloved will need to go to the Clark County Marriage License Bureau together.
• The fee is $60. (current as of 6/18/12)
• No blood test is required.
• You can save time by printing off the application and filling it out before you go to the marriage bureau. Go here to print the application.
• At this time, Nevada does not allow same-sex marriages.
• You must be 18 or older and you will be required to show proof of age. Acceptable forms of ID are driver's license, passport, military ID, and voter ID card (must show birth date).  Go here for more in depth ID requirements.
• If either of you is divorced, you will need to supply the exact date the divorce was declared final and the city it was finalized in.  You do not need a copy of the divorce decree.
• Waiting period: There is none! Yee-haw!
• Witness: You will need one.  Luckily most chapels have one on hand you can borrow.

 Helpful links:
Clark County Marriage License Bureau
List of Las Vegas Wedding Chapels with price ranges
Vegas Vacation deals from Expedia

A Match Made in Heaven

Matching wedding sets! Totally traditional and romantic!

Wedding Ring Set His and Hers Frosted Frosted Sterling Silver Diamond Bands by LiliaNashJewelry
Source: etsy.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest

We Hold One Heart in 14k White and Yellow Gold - Handmade Wedding Band Set by LichenAndLychee
Source: etsy.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest

14k rose gold custom rustic wedding band set by GoldenSparrowDesign
Source: etsy.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest

Wedding Band Engagement Set in 9kt Rose Gold and White Gold with Pine Trees by ashhilton
Source: etsy.com via Let's Elope! on Pinterest