The Pros and Cons of Eloping: What to Know Before You Say ‘I Do’
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Eloping isn’t what it used to be, and that’s a good thing. Today, elopements are beautifully intentional, deeply personal celebrations that focus on what truly matters: your love story. Whether it’s just the two of you exchanging vows beneath an ancient tree or an intimate ceremony surrounded by your closest people, eloping offers a refreshing way to say “I do” without the pressure of tradition.
We’ve been lucky to witness and document elopements all over Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, and Ventura counties. And while we absolutely love how meaningful and freeing these days can be, we also know it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding if it’s the right choice for you.
Gretchen and Kyle’s sweet Santa Barbara Courthouse elopement is the perfect example of what makes these small celebrations so powerful. They invited their immediate families, chose a setting that reflected their love, and surprised everyone with the most beautiful announcement, they were expecting a baby.
Let’s dive into what makes elopements so special, and what to keep in mind as you plan your own.
Why More Couples Are Choosing to Elope
A Day That Feels Like You
When you choose to elope, you get to create a day that reflects your relationship from start to finish. No compromises, no expectations, just meaningful choices that feel aligned with your love story.
Gretchen and Kyle’s ceremony at the Santa Barbara Courthouse was quiet, heartfelt, and full of joy. Surrounded only by immediate family, they focused on what mattered most to them: presence, connection, and celebration. And when they shared the news of their growing family, it was such a tender, unforgettable moment.
Intentional Spending
Eloping doesn’t necessarily mean spending less, it means spending differently. You’re not budgeting for 150 dinners or a large reception space. Instead, you can invest in the things that truly matter to you, like beautiful photos, a unique location, or a slow, luxurious morning getting ready.
Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, and Ventura all offer stunning locations that double as both your wedding backdrop and honeymoon destination. Many of our couples make a weekend of it, enjoying a peaceful getaway and savoring every part of the experience.
Less Planning, Less Stress
Let’s be honest: traditional weddings can be overwhelming. Guest lists, timelines, seating charts, family dynamics… it’s a lot. Elopements naturally offer a simpler, calmer alternative. With fewer moving parts, you have more freedom to go with the flow, and to be fully present on your day.
We help guide couples through the whole experience, whether it’s choosing the best courthouse garden or figuring out when the light hits just right for portraits, so your day feels easy and effortless.
Things to Consider Before Eloping
Some Loved Ones May Feel Left Out
Choosing to elope can come with big emotions, especially from family members or friends who may have imagined a larger celebration. And that’s okay. It’s worth thinking about how you’ll communicate your decision and how you might include loved ones in other ways.
Gretchen and Kyle’s approach, inviting their immediate family, was a beautiful balance. Others opt to elope privately and host a celebration later. There’s no wrong way to do it, just what feels best for you.
You May Miss the Energy of a Big Wedding
Some couples truly dream of a packed dance floor, the energy of a grand entrance, or being surrounded by everyone they love in one place. If that sounds like you, a traditional wedding might be a better fit. Or you can combine the best of both worlds: elope now, party later.
That’s one of the many reasons we love the flexibility of elopements. They can be whatever you want them to be.
Why Southern California is Perfect for Elopements
From the Spanish architecture of the Santa Barbara Courthouse to the quiet beaches of Malibu and the peaceful hills of Ojai, Southern California is made for intimate weddings. You have incredible light, beautiful landscapes, and venues that suit both private elopements and micro weddings with a few guests.
At Loverlane by The Gathering Season, we specialize in creating personalized elopement experiences across Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, and Ventura counties. We combine planning, photography, officiating, and celebration into one seamless experience, so you can focus on each other and the moment.
We’re here to help with everything, from finding hidden gem locations to guiding you through your timeline and making sure every detail is taken care of. Eloping doesn’t mean you have to go it alone.
Is Eloping Right for You?
Elopements aren’t second-best. They’re bold, beautiful, and deeply personal. If you’re dreaming of a day that feels easy, authentic, and focused on your connection, an elopement might be just what your heart’s been searching for.
Inspired by Gretchen and Kyle’s story?
Let’s talk about how we can bring your vision to life, whether it’s at the courthouse or along the coast.
Getting Ready Location: Palihouse Santa Barbara
Ceremony Location: Santa Barbara Courthouse
