How to have an elopement in Tauranga, New Zealand

Did you know that having an elopement wedding is a growing trend? Some couples know from the outset that en elopement is the right choice for them, while other couples start planning the bigger wedding then start to wonder about a simpler, cheaper option of an elopement.

Desiree and Matt were married in Te Puna Quarry Park with about 15 guests. They chose to bring a picnic to have after the ceremony.

So what is an elopement? Traditionally, it is a tiny ceremony where the couple get married without telling family or friends until after the marriage has taken place. The reasons for doing this are varied, but most commonly it’s about privacy and shyness or price. Some couples bring just a few close friends or family members. Others don’t want to bring anyone, and then ask me to provide the two witnesses that are required (more than once I’ve asked random people walking by to be the witnesses - they are always so delighted to be asked!)

In my ceremony packages, I consider an elopement to be the couple, a small number of people to support them, and no bridesmaids or groomsmen. I write a personalised ceremony, telling the love story of the couple, and make beautiful vow cards for them. You choose the music, and I’ll make a Spotify list and play it on my PA system.

An elopement can be held anywhere: on the beach, in a garden, in a park, on top of a hill or in a restaurant. Bring a photographer and have a relaxed, beautiful ceremony!

Contact me if you want to talk about an elopement ceremony: celebrantdebbie@gmail.com