Happy National Decide to Get Married Day! If you’ve been flirting with the idea of ditching the big wedding for something more intimate and intentional, consider this your sign. In this guide, we’re breaking down exactly how to elope, including choosing the perfect destination, what to wear, and how you can still celebrate with your people (even from afar).

What Does It Mean to Elope in 2025?

Gone are the days when eloping meant running off to Vegas in secret (though we still love a neon-lit chapel and LWD moment). Today, eloping is a choice—and a powerful one. It means choosing intimacy over spectacle, experience over tradition, and a day that’s fully about you two.

Modern elopements can look like:

• A barefoot ceremony on the beach
• A mountaintop vow exchange at sunrise
• A courthouse “yes” followed by a family brunch
• A destination adventure for just the two of you (and maybe your dog)

How to Elope in 5 Easy Steps

1. Decide What Kind of Elopement You Want

The beauty of eloping is that it can look however you want. There’s no one-size-fits-all—just the size that fits you two. Start by imagining the kind of experience you want to have—then find a setting to match the moment. Some ideas:

• A sunrise hike in Yosemite followed by vows on the cliffs
• A city hall ceremony in New York with rooftop cocktails after
• A courthouse elopement in your hometown—then dinner at your favorite spot
• A beachfront vow exchange in Tulum with just your toes in the sand
• A fall foliage elopement in the Blue Ridge Mountains, complete with cozy cabin photos
• A desert elopement in Joshua Tree under the stars

Think about what matters most—privacy, adventure, scenery, or simplicity—and let that guide your plan. Once you have a vision, the rest gets easier.

Tip for Today: If you’re feeling spontaneous (it is National Decide to Get Married Day), check your local city hall or county clerk’s office—you might be able to tie the knot this week with just a license, an officiant, and the right outfit!

2. Make It Legal

You still need a marriage license! Just remember, every state has different laws. Check:

• If there’s a required waiting period
• Whether or not an officiant or witnesses are required
• If virtual ceremonies are allowed

Pro Tip: Pearl Planner can walk you through the checklist based on your wedding location!

3. Choose the Date

If you’re eloping today, you’re a legend. If not, consider:

• Off-season weekdays (for better travel deals)
• A sentimental date you already share
• A symbolic moment, like sunrise, solstice, or your anniversary

4. Pick Your Looks

Even a low-key elopement deserves a dream outfit. Whether you’re rocking a bridal jumpsuit or a flowing gown, David’s Bridal has:

• Wedding dresses starting at just $99.95 from The Edit by DB Studio
• Styles perfect for travel, elopements, and rewearing
• Looks for every climate, size, and vibe

5. Celebrate Your Way

Just because you’re eloping doesn’t mean you can’t party later! Consider:

• A “we eloped!” brunch or dinner back home
• Mailing wedding announcements with photos from the day
• A sequel wedding or backyard bash next year

How to Elope Without Regret

The biggest tip? Make it meaningful. Eloping isn’t about skipping the celebration but about redefining it on your terms. Some couples do still feel a bit of regret afterward, and it’s usually not because they eloped…it’s because they didn’t make the moment feel big or personal enough to reflect their story.

Here are a few reasons couples sometimes feel post-elopement regret—and how to avoid them:

• They didn’t document it well. Even the most intimate “just us” elopement deserves photos or video. Hire a professional (or ask a talented friend) to capture the day—you’ll be glad you did.
• They didn’t tell loved ones in a thoughtful way. It’s your day, but it’s still part of your loved ones’ story too. Plan to send a heartfelt announcement, share photos, or even host a small post-elopement get-together so no one feels left out.
• They skipped the traditions they secretly wanted. Just because you’re eloping doesn’t mean you can’t wear a gown, carry flowers, say formal vows, or have a first dance. Include the moments that matter to you, no matter how small.
• It felt rushed. Elopements can be spontaneous, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be intentional. Take time to write vows, plan a dinner, or stay somewhere special—even if you’re eloping on short notice!

Bottom line: Eloping should feel like a full-body yes—not a backup plan. If you keep the focus on each other and carve out space to celebrate (in whatever way feels right), you won’t look back. 

How to Elope: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the easiest way to elope?
A: The easiest way to elope is to plan a courthouse ceremony in your city or county. You’ll typically need a marriage license, a valid ID, and maybe a witness or officiant. Keep the day simple with just the two of you—or bring a couple of close friends to celebrate after.

Q: Where can you legally elope in the U.S.?
A: You can legally elope in any U.S. state, but the rules vary. Some states require a waiting period or an officiant, while others (like Colorado) let you self-solemnize. Always check the local marriage laws for your elopement destination before booking travel or vendors.

Q: How much does it cost to elope?
A: Eloping can cost as little as $50 (just the marriage license fee, which varies) or several thousand dollars for a destination elopement with travel, outfits, a photographer, post-ceremony celebration, etc. On average, most couples spend under $2,000 when they elope.

Q: Can you have a wedding dress for an elopement?
A: Absolutely! Many brides choose special looks for their elopement—from sleek gowns to short dresses, bridal jumpsuits, or rewearable styles under $300 from The Edit by DB Studio. The best part? You can wear whatever feels right to you.

Q: Do you need witnesses to elope?
A: It depends on the state. Some states require one or two witnesses, while others do not. For example:

• California: 1 witness required
• New York: 1 witness
• Colorado: No witness required—you can self-solemnize
  Always check your location’s legal requirements before your ceremony.

Q: How do I tell friends and family we eloped?
A: Send a cute “we eloped!” card with a photo from your day, host a post-elopement brunch or dinner, or announce it on social with a thoughtful caption. Eloping doesn’t mean leaving people out—it just means celebrating differently.

TL;DR: How to Elope (And Love Every Second)

• Pick a destination that fits your vibe and budget
• Check local marriage laws and plan ahead
• Choose an outfit that feels like you
• Celebrate on your terms, in your time
• Use tools like Pearl Planner to stay organized from “yes” to “I do”

So, if you’re wondering how to elope, let today (National Decide to Get Married Day) be your green light. Whether you’re tying the knot on a mountaintop, in a courthouse, or in your backyard, eloping is all about intention, intimacy, and starting your forever your way. No rules. No stress. Just love. 

And when you’re ready to plan it all (from outfits to after-party), Pearl Planner is here to help you turn your vision into something unforgettable.

Looking for more tips? Check out Pearl by David’s for all the latest trends, advice, and more.