Everything you need to know about elopements: the complete guide to a successful intimate wedding

Do you want to get married but avoid the stress of a big traditional wedding? An elopement might be exactly what you’re looking for.

In this article, we’ll explain what an elopement is, why more and more couples are choosing it, and most importantly, how to organize the perfect intimate wedding, step by step.

Photos by Visuals By Abbi

What is an elopement?

An elopement, or intimate wedding, is a small-scale celebration with very few guests – sometimes just the couple, or a handful of close loved ones. The goal is simple: focus on what truly matters – love, the ceremony, and a stunning setting – instead of the heavy logistics of a large wedding.

Why choose an elopement?

• Total freedom: choose the location, timing, and format without compromise.

• Less stress: no endless guest lists or overwhelming vendor choices.

• Flexible budget: fewer guests means lower costs, with the option to invest in a dream venue or a talented photographer.

• Perfect for destination weddings: ideal if you want to marry abroad or in a natural setting.

Popular examples: private beaches, historic estates, remarkable gardens, mountains, forests, vineyards, or unique and unconventional venues.

Photos by Visuals By Abbi

Key steps to planning an elopement

1. Define your vision

Before anything else, ask yourselves:

• How many guests? (Just the two of you, or 5–10 loved ones?)

• What type of ceremony? Civil, symbolic, or religious?

• Wedding style: boho, elegant, modern, luxurious?

• Destination: local or abroad?

2. Choose the perfect location

• Intimate venues: estates, châteaux, private villas, or secluded gardens.

• Nature settings: beaches, mountains, forests, vineyards.

• Check logistics: parking, accommodation, accessibility for guests.

• For an elopement on the French Riviera, La Bastide du Roy in Antibes is an exceptional choice: sea views, private gardens, and a venue classified as a Historic Monument.

3. Decide on date and logistics

• Book your venue early.

• Select the right vendors: an elopement photographer, officiant (symbolic or civil), hair & makeup artist, and florist for a simple yet elegant bouquet.

• Prepare all legal documents if you want a legally recognized wedding.

• Consider the weather and plan a backup option for outdoor events.

4. Focus on the details that matter

• Outfits: choose comfortable yet stylish wedding attire suited to your venue.

• Minimalist décor: flowers, an arch, and a few symbolic touches.

• Photography & videography: a must for capturing intimate moments.

• Activities: wine tasting, a private stroll in the venue, or sunset photos.

5. Guest management

• Keep it limited to close family or just the two of you.

• For a small group, arrange simple but high-quality accommodation and meals.

6. Budget & costs

An elopement allows you to focus your budget on:

• A unique venue

• Professional photography

• Wedding attire and accessories

• Florals and minimalist décor

• Travel and accommodation (if planning a destination wedding)

7. Real-life elopement examples

• Beach in Corsica: sunset ceremony for two, followed by a light dinner.

• Private garden in Provence: civil ceremony + family brunch, with photos in olive groves.

• French Riviera estate: intimate seaside ceremony with minimalist décor and sunrise photos.

Tips for a successful elopement

• Plan ahead, even if the concept is simple.

• Hire an experienced elopement photographer – they know how to capture emotion and intimacy.

• Choose a venue that reflects you, not just what looks good on Instagram.

• Don’t overlook legal details if you want your marriage to be official.

• Live in the moment – the true luxury of an elopement is time and freedom.

Conclusion

An elopement wedding is the perfect choice for couples seeking an intimate, chic, and stress-free celebration. Less pressure, more emotion, a breathtaking setting, and the flexibility to design a wedding that’s truly yours – whether it’s just the two of you or with your closest loved ones.

If you’re dreaming of an elopement on the French Riviera, La Bastide du Roy offers private spaces, remarkable gardens, and stunning sea views – the ideal backdrop for a unique and unforgettable wedding.