How to make eloping and intimate weddings special

With Covid-19 continuing to cause various strict rules and lockdown measures with regards to weddings, more and more engaged couples are opting for elopements or intimate weddings. While these measures might leave you with no other choice, it does not mean that your wedding day can't be beautiful and special.

There are various ways in which couples can still create the big day they have dreamed of, and to still make it a special day to remember. You don't have to rush to the courthouse and go sit at home afterwards. Here are the top 5 ways in which brides and grooms to be can make their elopement or intimate wedding a special day:

[1] Outdoor Restaurants

During some of the most strict lockdown regulations, restaurants usually stay open. Our country is home to some of the most beautiful outdoor restaurants with amazing views, colourful gardens and breathtaking vineyards.

Surf the web for your favourite spot and give them a call to see if they can reserve a special table outside for you, and if you and your closest family (Moms & Dads and Siblings for example) can do your vows somewhere in the garden before eating a special lunch or dinner.

By doing so, you still have spectacular views, can wear a stunning dress and tux, and can have a beautifully decorated table to celebrate at afterwards. You also get to share the moment with a few loved ones while keeping the time spent safe by being outside.

[2] Picnic

Another safe (and affordable) way to have your wedding during these times are through a picnic wedding. Here couples are able to invite a few guests, ask them to bring their own picnic basket and drinks, and scatter blankets socially distanced from each other. Your picnic wedding will have a beautiful backdrop of trees, greenery and flowers (without having to pay for it! Bonus!), and you can therefore enjoy stunning photos afterwards.

[3] Church and Dine

A courthouse does not have to be your only option. Even with just 2 or 3 witnesses present, you can still make it special by getting married in a church or chapel. This will give you the special moment of walking down the aisle with Dad, and give you a beautiful backdrop for the photos.

Book a private room or table at a restaurant for after the ceremony where you and your special "witnesses" can dine and celebrate afterwards. Ask the restaurant if you are able to decorate the table beforehand - they should be open to the idea. The special touches and celebration will add so many memories to your special day.

[4] Digital Wedding

Wishing more people could experience the moment with you? Why not invite all of your loved ones to a virtual wedding. Get a big screen so that you can see everyone's faces and enjoy the special moment with them. Make it extra special by having a specific dress or colour code for your guests.

[5] Pure Romance

Is just the two of you the only option? Then it's time to turn on the romance and make it a day/night to remember. Book a private table somewhere secluded for a special dinner with champagne and roses. Splurge on a fine dining experience for the two of you and book a hotel room for the evening. Should hotels be closed, why not make it extra special at home?

Opt for a christmas bed surrounded by rose petals. Or run a bubble bath and create soft lighting in the room. Turn your house into a scene from your favourite rom com! Either way, there is no need to go back to a boring room after the wedding. Make it special, after all, it is an occasion worth celebrating.