How far in advance should you plan an elopement? Much less time than a big wedding, because there is no venue to book for a crowd and no guest list to manage. Even so, a little time makes the day calmer.
I'm Leon, an accredited celebrant and photographer based in Llandudno. Here is a realistic timeline, from the first conversation to the day itself.
The Legal Minimum
If you want to be legally married, you give notice at your register office at least 29 days before the legal ceremony, and marry within 12 months of giving notice. If one of you is from outside the UK, it can take longer. Is eloping legal in Wales has the details.
Choosing Your Season
Your season shapes the plan. Spring brings fresh woodland, summer long evenings, autumn colour and winter dramatic quiet. The best time of year to elope walks through each one.
Planning the Ceremony and Vows
Give yourselves time to write. I craft your ceremony around your story, and you can co-create it with me or let me keep it as a surprise for the day. How to write your elopement vows is a good place to start.
Who and Where
Decide who stands with you, keeping it as small as possible, with kids and dogs welcome. Then choose your setting, perhaps Llyn Gwynant, Cemlyn Bay or the hills above Llangollen.
After the Day
Photographs arrive in about four weeks and video in about eight, so leave room before any celebration with family. Both packages are on the live packages page.
Just Engaged?
If you proposed with Where Two Bloom, you receive 10% off your elopement.
Anywhere You Choose
You can elope at home, in your garden, elsewhere in the UK or abroad, as well as across North Wales.
Start early enough to enjoy it, and late enough to keep it simple. Read how to elope to North Wales, then book a call to talk through your dates.