What are the ceremony options for your elopement in the UK?

Wondering what the ceremony options are for your elopement in Wales? Let me break it down for you!

If you’re a couple planning to elope in the UK it can feel like quite an exciting whirlwind; just the two of you, sharing your vows in a wild setting for moments that are intimate, meaningful, and uniquely yours – sounds pretty epic! But let’s be real: it can also feel a bit overwhelming, especially when you start wondering, “What are the actual ceremony options for an elopement?”

If you’re feeling a little stuck right now, don’t worry – you’re not alone. These are the most common questions couples ask me:

• Does it have to be legal on the day?
• Who will do the ceremony?
• Can we skip the formalities and just have something symbolic?

The good news is that when it comes to elopements, there’s no “one size fits all.” The beauty of eloping is the freedom to craft a ceremony that fits you perfectly, without worrying about traditions that don’t resonate. Let’s look at the options to help you find the one that feels just right for you.

Option 1: The legal (indoor) ceremony

If you want your elopement to be officially recognised, a legal ceremony is the only way to go. In the UK, this means choosing a licensed venue or registrar-approved location – anything from a simple registry office to a ceremony-only licensed venue. This option is perfect for couples who want to make it official on their special day while keeping things small and 100% stress-free.

Worried a registry office elopement might not feel quite right? Don’t be! The beauty of eloping is that you can style your day however you like – and within a budget that feels good for you. Imagine an early morning trip to the Town Hall for the legal bits, followed by an adventure around Eryri (Snowdonia) planned (by me) just for you. Imagine a leisurely dog walk, a mountain adventure with a symbolic exchange of vows or rings (or both!), and then wrapping it all up with a cosy evening at a local pizzeria before heading back to your dreamy Airbnb for stargazing in an outdoor hot tub.

Not based in Wales? No problem! Here’s an idea: Wales is super easy to reach from just about anywhere in the UK. In fact, one of my couples got legally married in the heart of London, then made their way to the stunning Welsh mountains for epic wedding photos at sunset. Talk about the perfect combination of city vibes and wild, romantic landscapes!

Your elopement is about you, so make it the perfect mix of ‘official’ and unforgettable – whatever works for you.

Not sold on the idea of a basic Registry Office ceremony?

Why not choose a gorgeous ceremony-only venue for your elopement? Over the past six years, couples have trusted me to help plan adventurous elopements here in Eryri (Snowdonia), and I’ve been fortunate to photograph ceremonies in some truly romantic venues that align beautifully with my wholesome wedding values – happy to suggest my faves to you.

If a romantic small wedding venue feels like the perfect fit, consider adding a Celtic touch to your day with a handfasting ritual. Official registrars can often include this meaningful tradition in your ceremony – just ask when ‘giving notice’ (which is as simple as letting your local registry office know you plan to get married).

How about adding a private vow exchange, just the two of you, overlooking the mountains for ultimate romance vibes? Add a little family time beforehand, maybe share some cake together, and you’ve got the perfect mix of love, connection, and unforgettable scenery. 100% an option!

Option 2: The legal (outdoor) ceremony

While getting legally married on top of a mountain or on a beach in England and Wales isn’t possible just yet, there’s still an incredible option to say your vows surrounded by nature. With elopements growing in popularity, more and more licensed venues now offer the chance to hold your legal ceremony outdoors (weather permitting, of course).

If this sounds like your dream, you’re in luck! There are some truly breathtaking venues that make it happen, and I’d love to point you in the right direction. Spoiler alert: the views will leave you speechless, and your day will be nothing short of magical!

Option 3: The ‘Best of Both Worlds’ Approach

If you’re dreaming of an elopement in a location that isn’t legally recognised (like a mountaintop in Eryri | Snowdonia), there’s a simple solution. Take care of the legal paperwork before or after your elopement day at a registry office. Then, plan your dream ceremony wherever your heart desires. This way, you can enjoy the freedom of a symbolic ceremony and have everything legally squared away.

We’ve decided on a symbolic elopement ceremony – who can lead it?

Planning your elopement is exciting, but it’s easy to feel a little stuck when you start thinking about the ceremony itself – questions like, “Who can actually lead it?” or, “Does it even have to be someone official?” might be running through your mind. Here’s the good news – no legal restrictions mean you can have anyone lead your ceremony so choosing someone who feels 100% right for you is an option. A close friend or family member who knows you & your story can make it incredibly personal and heartfelt. Or, if you want an experienced guide, we have some amazing independent celebrants in North Wales who specialise in creating a unique and personalised ceremony tailored to your relationship. There is no right or wrong way of doing this – ultimately what it comes down to is budget and what feels good – for you!

Elopements come in all shapes and sizes, and I’ve been lucky enough to photograph them in so many incredible ways! From cosy registry office ceremonies (sometimes starting with the legal bit, sometimes not) to romantic ceremony-only venues, with just the two of you or surrounded by friends, family, kids, or even your dogs, led by friends, family members or celebrants.

Whether it’s on a mountain top, a windswept beach, in the rain, under a blazing sun, wrapped in misty mountain magic, or even during a dramatic Welsh storm, every elopement has been absolutely amazing. The beauty of eloping is just that – it’s entirely yours for you to plan as authentic, unforgettable, and (im)perfect as you like.

Feeling the Pressure? You’re Not Alone

One of the biggest challenges for couples planning an elopement is feeling like they have to “get it right.” There’s often a fear of missing something important or not knowing where to start. But here’s the thing: there’s no right or wrong way to do it.

Whether you want a quiet legal ceremony, a wildly romantic symbolic moment, or a mix of both, your elopement can be whatever you want it to be.

I can support you every step of the way

As someone who’s been lucky enough to capture countless elopements, the goal is to make this part of your planning as stress-free as possible. Need help finding a licensed venue? Got questions about creating a symbolic ceremony that feels meaningful? Want to hike to a remote spot for breathtaking views? Get in contact and let’s talk about your options – it’s all part of the journey.

Your elopement is about celebrating you, and no matter what ceremony option you choose, it’s going to be magical. So take a deep breath, trust your instincts, and know that your day is going to be nothing short of amazing.

You may also enjoy:

What is an elopement and is it for me?

How much does an elopement cost in the UK – understanding the real cost of eloping.

Making the most of your elopement day if it rains;

How to plan a simple wedding in the UK;

Elopement wedding dresses: how to pick one that’s perfect for you;

A wholesome, fun and intimate wedding day with your children in glorious Wales;

Seaside romance: The magic of a coastal elopement in North Wales;

Enchanting winter micro wedding at Penarth Fawr;

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