Congratulations!  You’re engaged!  Planning your forever life with someone special can be so exciting.  Whether you decide to plan a little gathering or secretly run away to somewhere special, I have absolutely no doubt that your day will be AMAZING! 

If you’re considering getting married without a wedding, you’re not alone. After all – not everyone wants a conventional wedding.  In fact, one of the most popular questions asked online is if it’s even possible to get married without a wedding…and if so, how? 

 Although tradition encourages all of the glitz, glam, and experience that comes with a wedding, a couple doesn’t need to plan a wedding at all…and not planning a wedding doesn’t automatically mean you have to settle for a spur-of-the-moment, courthouse ceremony either.  

It is beyond possible to have a very special wedding-free ceremony that celebrates you and your partner – without all of the logistical stress!

Below, I’ve listed a couple of fun ways to get married without a wedding to help you build your dream elopement. Let’s get into some of the top ways to elope in 2023 (and beyond!) 

Can You Marry Without a Wedding in 2023? 

Yes, yes you can! It’s really a more simplified elopement. While eloping has carried some stigma in the past, modern-day brides-to-be have completely broken that – creating a new vision around elopement that promotes individuality, intimacy, and the true undying love that you and your partner have to share. Whether you’re looking for a “secret” and more intimate experience, or you’re wanting a more casual ceremony for a larger group of family and friends, elopement makes it all possible. After all – the beauty of an elopement is the freedom it gives couples.

Some couples desire to take eloping a step further by planning a trip to somewhere special for an intimate ceremony and turning it into a destination event.  The possibilities are endless!  

The best part about eloping or marrying without a wedding is that you can be married anywhere you want. As long as the two of you are getting married and follow the rules and regulations of the state or country where you marry, most everything is perfectly doable with an elopement.

The Destination Elopement Budget

Choosing your destination elopement is exciting! You can marry on the beach, on open land, in public parks or buildings, or even in the backyard of a close friend. 

Usually with an elopement, you won’t have to worry about expensive deposits set for months up front. While there will be costs involved (especially if you opt to travel far or luxuriously), they are generally more controlled. 

Feel free to dream big as you plan your destination wedding – just be prepared! No matter how small or big the ceremony is, working within a realistic budget is essential. This will help you stay on track and start your marriage strong, minimizing wedding debt as much as possible. 

On average, most couples will budget anywhere between $2000 to $15,000 to elope. Compared to the traditional formal wedding that usually can cost upwards of $30k, choosing to elope might be a much more affordable choice. With modern-day elopements, couples are free to swap things that are less of a priority for the details that matter most – often resulting in more cost savings. 

Planning a Destination Elopement in Canada 

Although there are many beautiful places to choose from when planning an elopement, one of the most beautiful places is right here in Canada! I’ve made suggestions below for some beautiful location ideas that would be a dream to tie the knot at. I’m confident that these will be some of the most magical venues you’ve ever seen! 

So, you already know that Canada offers amazing places for memorable elopements…The only difficult decision you will have to make is choosing what province of Canada you plan to marry in. 

Niagara Falls, Prince Edward Island, and Banff are only a couple of beautiful places to tie the knot – there are plenty of other options that are more niche or tailored to your interests. Looking for more specific recs? VIsit the Contact Me page and let me know. I’m happy to give you my insider experience and list of top venues in 2023! 

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is one of the favorite destination elopement locations that offer breathtaking backdrops.  Whether you wish to say “I do” intimately by Niagara Falls Lake or in the little log chapel onsite, the location is the perfect fairytale wedding venue to tie the knot at.  One of the best parts about marrying at Niagara Falls is that it can fit just about any budget and preference. We love versatility! 

Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island has miles of rocky beaches, sand dunes beaches, and wineries available for couples wanting to get married. A simple reservation to the National Park can secure an intimate space for you and your someone special.

 Banff National Park

Banff is one of the most beautiful national parks.  You can choose to hike into the park to tie the knot or choose a picturesque lake backdrop for the less adventurous ceremony.  Banff offers several lakes and hiking passes to choose from – all you have to do is purchase your marriage license. 

Book your destination wedding photography today 

Hey! It’s Lydia! I specialize in capturing the “perfectly imperfect,” candid, and unposed images you see on your Pinterest feed. If you’re a wild-hearted, adventurous soul, I would love to have the privilege to snap your special day. If you’re looking for affordable wedding photography near you, let’s book in for a time to chat–I would love to connect with you and see how we can make your special day a reality through the lens!