Reasons You May Want to Elope
Ready to skip the big wedding? Discover why eloping is so much better
Weddings come in all shapes, sizes and price tags - but have you ever thought about skipping the big bash and eloping instead? Over the past few years, I've noticed a significant rise in couples choosing to elope here in Muskoka - and I totally get why.
Elopements are the perfect mix of romance, intimacy and adventure, minus all the stress that comes with planning a traditional wedding. If you’ve been thinking about it, here are a few reasons why you might want to consider getting married in a more low-key, yet unforgettable way.
1. Save Some Serious Cash
Let’s be real - weddings can cost a small fortune. The average wedding in Canada runs around $30k and that number only goes up when you start adding in the extras. Eloping keeps your hard-earned cash in your pocket. Think about it - no big venue fees, no 150+ guest meals to pay for and no expensive flowers that’ll end up in the compost the next day. Instead, you can use that money for a honeymoon experience, put a down payment on a home or invest it to help grow your family’s future.
2. Less Stress, More Fun
If you’ve ever helped someone plan a wedding, you know the drill - endless decisions, long to-do lists and a tonne of moving parts to manage. It can feel like you’re juggling flaming swords while trying to stay calm. Eloping takes a lot of that pressure off. You don’t have to worry about picking the perfect tablecloth colour or stressing over whether your second cousin is offended they didn’t get an invite. Instead, you can focus on what actually matters - celebrating the two of you without the overwhelming to-do list.
3. A Wedding That’s Truly Personal
Traditional weddings can sometimes feel a little... impersonal. With a huge guest list, strict schedules and a bunch of wedding norms to follow, it can be hard to feel like your day is truly yours.
Eloping? Not the case. Whether you’re saying "I do" on a Muskoka waterfront, a secluded beach, atop a mountain or in a charming little chapel, your elopement is 100% tailored to what you want. No rules, no compromises - just a ceremony that reflects your personalities, your love story and your vision.
4. No Drama, Just Love
Let's be honest - family dynamics can sometimes bring a little wedding drama to the table. Whether it’s pressure to invite distant relatives, stickhandling divorced parents or managing differing expectations, weddings can sometimes cause more stress than excitement. Eloping lets you skip the drama and celebrate your love without any outside interference. It’s just the two of you (or maybe a couple of close family and friends) enjoying a stress-free celebration.
5. Invite Close Friends and Family
If you think eloping means being completely solo on your big day, think again! Eloping doesn’t mean you have to ditch your loved ones altogether. Many couples choose to invite a few close family members or best friends to witness their vows. You can still share the moment with your closest people without the pressure of a massive guest list. Plus, you can throw a fun post-elopement celebration or reception later if you want to keep the party going!
Is Eloping Right for You?
Eloping isn’t for everyone, but it’s definitely a wonderful option if you're looking to save money, reduce stress and have a wedding experience that’s totally your own. Whether you’re dreaming of a quiet ceremony surrounded by nature, a spontaneous adventure, or a simple celebration with just a few people - eloping can give you the freedom to create an experience that’s totally unique.
If you’re thinking of eloping in Muskoka or beyond, I’d love to help you capture those incredible moments.
More About Elopements
