Eloping is often seen as a more affordable alternative to a traditional wedding, but for many couples it's not just a cheap way out. Elopements are intentional and are centered around the idea that your wedding day could be your actual best day ever with the person you love most in the world. You can take even a small portion of the average wedding budget and plan the greatest adventure of your life that you just happened to get married on! But how much does it really cost? While elopements can be significantly less expensive, the total cost varies based on location, travel, vendors, and personal preferences.
In this guide, we’ll break down typical elopement costs, highlight hidden expenses, and help you create a realistic budget for your dream day.
Average Cost of an Elopement
Elopements can range anywhere from $2,000 to $15,000, depending on factors like destination, guest count (if any), and vendor choices. Below is a general breakdown of potential costs:
Elopement Budget Breakdown
Expense Category | Estimated Cost Range |
Marriage License | $50 - $200 |
Officiant | $200 - $600 |
Photographer | $2,500 - $10,000 |
Travel & Lodging | $500 - $5,000 |
Attire (Dress/Suit) | $100 - $2,500 |
Bouquet & Boutonniere | $150 - $500 |
Hair & Makeup | $200 - $600 |
Permits & Park Fees | $50 - $500 |
Private Venue (if applicable) | $500 - $3,000 |
Meals & Celebration | $100 - $1,000 |
Videographer (Optional) | $1,500 - $5,000 |
Adventure Activities (Optional) | $100 - $1,000 |
Hidden Expenses to Watch For
Beyond the main costs, there are a few hidden expenses that couples often overlook:
Travel & Parking Fees – If eloping in a remote area or national park, there may be additional transportation costs, shuttle services, or parking fees.
Permit Applications & Timing – Some locations require permits for ceremonies and photography, and they may need to be secured months in advance.
Marriage License Requirements – Some states require a waiting period before issuing a marriage license, meaning you may need to arrive earlier and stay longer.
Weather-Related Expenses – Backup plans for inclement weather, such as renting a small indoor space or extra gear for an adventure elopement, can add unexpected costs. Make sure you speak with your elopement planner or consultant about alternative options.
Last-Minute Upgrades – Many couples decide to splurge on nicer accommodations, upgraded attire, or additional photography coverage after finalizing initial plans.
How to Save Money on Your Elopement
If you're looking to keep costs low while still having a magical experience, here are some budget-friendly tips:
Choose a drivable destination to cut down on flights and lodging costs.
Consider a weekday elopement when vendors and accommodations are more affordable. Plus the parks are less busy on weekdays and parks can be less restrictive on those days.
Opt for a national park or public land instead of a private venue.
Skip unnecessary extras if they don’t align with your vision. If it's not something you value (fresh flowers, a fancy dinner, an expensive outfit) then don't feel bad about saving money in that area.
Bundle vendor services by working with an elopement photographer who also provides planning guidance.
Sign up for a travel credit card and rack up travel points you can use for your trip. I personally have found that the Chase Sapphire card has given me the best return on rewards, as have many other people in my industry. Use it responsibly of course!
Look into using a travel agent. Many of them don't charge extra to help you but instead get paid by the companies they book with. They're able to find great values for couples on flights, accomodations, and other activities. I personally refer my couples to Curated Compass Travel Co, who's been my travel agent in the past as well!
Final Thoughts
Eloping is about creating an intentional and intimate wedding experience, and the cost should reflect your priorities rather than traditional wedding expectations. Whether you go all-out with a luxury elopement or keep it simple with a budget-friendly adventure, the key is to plan ahead and be mindful of hidden expenses.
Ready to begin planning your dream wedding?
I'm Carly, a destination wedding and elopement photographer + planning guide who's documented weddings from Hawaii to Scotland. My top priority on elopement days is to help you create an experience, not just deliver great photos. I want to tell your wedding story, share the emotions you felt that day and the fun you shared together, and provide you with memories that you'll love forever. And in addition to photography, I'll also provide:
✓ Location Scouting & Research
✓ Vendor Recommendations
✓ Customized Timeline Building
✓ Activity Recommendations
✓ Assistance with Permits
✓ An exclusive elopement planning guide
If you're ready to take the first step towards your best day ever, fill out the contact form on my site! We'll talk about all of the possibilities, ease your mind of any hesitations you may still have about eloping, and get planning!
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