Let’s run away together: All you need to know about eloping in The Bahamas

Eloping: Is it right for you?

If you’ve ever thought about running away with your fiancé and getting married just the two of you, you have eloping on your mind. Between the hustle and bustle of wedding planning and the expenses that can add up when planning a big event, eloping has become a popular option for couples who just want to focus on one thing: their significant other. Elopements are often sudden or secretive, with the couple later announcing that they tied the knot. Although some couples choose to head to the courthouse in their own city or state, a lot of couples are choosing to catch a flight and escape to some of the most beautiful and romantic destinations in the world to say “I Do.” Can you say wedding and honeymoon in one?

As romantic and cost-effective as eloping is, it doesn’t come without its downsides. If you’ve always dreamt of having all your friends and family members cheer you on and gaze at you while you walk down the aisle, with an elopement, this is obviously out of the question. Something else to think about, is that you might be stepping on some toes and hurting some feelings when the people nearest and dearest to you find out that you had a wedding without them. All that aside, if you’ve considered all the facts and choose that intimate, one-on-one moment with just you and your partner above all, then eloping might just be right for you!

The Bahamas: the perfect place for just the two of you

With its 700 islands and cays, The Bahamas is one of the best options for elopements. Firstly, there are several islands to choose from. If you want to completely escape the world and retreat just the two of you, the Family Islands are a perfect option for this kind of vibe. You will literally feel like you’re on a private island with some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world, the friendliest people around and the most gorgeous sunsets to admire. If you’re more about adventures and having a big party for two once you’ve tied the knot, Nassau, which is the capital of The Bahamas, might be more of what you’re looking for. Not only are there amazing beaches and sights to explore, but there are plenty of other adventurous activities you can get into as well.

Secondly, The Bahamas is one of the top honeymoon destinations in the world, which makes for the perfect “two birds with one stone” scenario. Once you’ve spent the money to get here, you can stay and enjoy all the island has to offer on your first vacation as husband and wife.

Finally, because The Bahamas is such a popular destination wedding spot, it’s easy to get the help you and your partner need when planning. Whether you want to go for a luxury elopement or a simple beach ceremony followed by a private dinner setup on the beach, our local wedding planners and hotel wedding teams will be more than pleased to walk you through the options available, help with getting your official documents together and make the process as stress-free as possible.

Things to do before you elope

If your mind is set on eloping, there are still a few things you will have to take into account before you become Mr. & Mrs:

Gather your documents: You’ll want to gather all the official documents needed in order to apply for a marriage license. It’s always a good idea to ask a wedding planner or your resort wedding department for help in this area.

Book your travel and choose a venue: Whether your dream is to get married just the two of you on a white or pink sandy beach during the ”golden hour”, or you’d like to say ”I Do” in a place of worship, you’ll need to decide what your vision is and book your spot. The Bahamas also has some great boutique hotels you can choose from that are sure to make your wedding and honeymoon magical.

Choose a theme: Are you going for a super chic elopement or a simpler laid-back look and feel? The beauty of eloping is that you can choose exactly what you and your partner want for your special day. Decide on your dress, cake, florals and all the wedding details together to make your day extra special. And don’t forget to stick to that budget.

Find a local photographer and videographer: It’s just the two of you, so you won’t likely have people snapping pictures of you all day long. Although your family and friends won’t be there for the big day, showing them some pictures and video at a later date (at a post-elopement party perhaps?) will help everyone feel a part of your journey to becoming husband and wife.

Getting married just the two of you and coming back home as husband and wife is definitely an exhilarating and adventurous option when it comes to planning your destination wedding. Planning to do it on one of the most beautiful islands in the world is only a plus!