If you landed on the blog you might be considering eloping in Indiana. Or maybe you did a quick Google search on getting married in Indiana? Either way, we are excited you are here! In this blog we will dive in all about the topic, “Elopement Packages Indiana”. Not only will we chat about what an elopement is, we will also discuss why we think elopement interest is growing. Then we will review Indiana Elopements, logistics, sample timelines, and so much more! Let’s jump on in!
What is an elopement?
Eloping used to be when a couple would run off (without anyone else’s knowledge) to the courthouse, Vegas, or wherever their hearts desired and get married! Modern day, elopements have taken on a different meaning. Most of our couples plan to elope, and tell their family in advance as well. Some invite a select few family and friends, and some elope just by themselves!
The Merriam Webster version states that the definition of an elopement is changing towards “a small destination wedding”. Although we say that it doesn’t necessarally have to be a “destination” it truly can be anywhere!
But we will leave it up to you to define, because after all it is YOUR DAY and you can define it however the heck you want 🙂
Growing Trends of Elopements
During the pandemic we saw elopements and searches for elopements increase. But the truth is, people were eloping prior to COVID. I think the real reason the interest in elopements have continued to rise is because couples want to have a wedding day that celebrates what matters most to them. In addition, it can save you a lot of money that could be spent on a downpayment for a house, paying off student loan debt, etc.
According to an article published by Newsweek on March 6, 2023 some of the top reasons Modern couples chose to elope were:
- Saving Money (Couples could save an average of $19,480 by eloping),
- Protecting their Peace (AKA some family members might not have approved of the relationship),
- To do what we wanted to do (Didn’t want disagreements of how the wedding “should” be by other family members).
As you can see, there are a lot of reasons why couples choose to elope! Regardless, it is no surprise that elopements are on the rise!
Why You Should Have your Indiana Elopement Documented
Having your elopement photographed is the one way to ensure that you’ll have tangible memories that you can forever look back on. Elopements are just as important as big weddings, and they should absolutely be documented!
Each elopement has a story, and our goal is to tell that story, from beginning to end. And after the day is over, you’ll be able to replay the day by looking back at photos from the experience you crafted.
Even if your elopement is just the two of you, sharing the moments with friends and family might be Important to you. Photographs provide a visual narrative that allows others to feel a part of your special day.
Years from now, when you and your spouse are old and grey and the great grandkids are flipping through the photo book you had printed, you are sharing the legecy and history with them. These images literally are a visual legacy and how beautiful will it be when you can share that with them.
Need we say more?!
Elopement Packages Indiana Continued…
Why should you choose Indiana for your elopement?
First off, FALL. In the fall, Indiana has some of the most vibrant colors that we have ever experienced. Imagine hiking through a wooded area with the leaves painted orange, yellow, and red. It is pure magic!
Second, we have some pretty awesome state parks! From Brown County State Park, Turkey Run State Park, Clifty Falls, McCormick’s Creek, to Shades, Indiana isn’t short of great options! And, did you know we even have a National Park in Indiana now?! Indiana Dunes officially became a National Park in February of 2019, and yes you can offically have a “beach elopement” in Indiana! SAY WHAT!?
Legal Requirements of an Indiana Elopement
First, you’ll need a marriage license! To obtain a marriage license in Indiana you’ll need to provide a valid ID (license, passport), and make the required payment. Currently it is $25.00 for Indiana residents and $75.00 for those outside of Indiana.
Once you have applied for the license, you have 60 days to tie the knot! You can even grab your license the same day of your wedding (we don’t have a waiting period!).
Click HERE to read more about the requirements for an Indiana Marriage License.
Cost Effectiveness of an Indiana Elopement Vs. an Indiana Wedding
In 2023 the average cost of an Indiana Wedding according to Wedding Report was $25,000 to 30,000. The average price of an Indiana Elopement can vary but we have found our couples spend about $3,500-$8,000. Much of this depends on the cost of outfits, accommodations, and catering.
Our Elopement Packages Indiana
Our elopement packages include exactly what you’ll need to help you plan out the perfect day! All packages can be custom made to be tailored to your day and your needs. So included, but not limited to:
- Location Scouting
- Airbnb Scouting
- Permit Help
- Anywhere between 4 hours to Multiple Day Coverage
- Full Online Gallery with Downloadable Images to Share with Friends/Family
- Curated Slideshow with Music
- 100+ page Elopement Guide
- Questionnaires to help you plan perfect activities
- and so much more 🙂
Sample Indiana Elopement Timeline
1:00- Photogs Arrive- & Detail Photos from the day
2:00– Couple Enjoys Tea Together while playing their favorite board game
2:30-Getting Ready together
3:00- Ceremony & Post Ceremony Activities at The Yurt
- Charcuterie board and tea
- Photos with the Pups
3:45 – Leave for Turkey Run
4:15– Couples Portraits & Hiking/Exploring
- Read letters from family
- Hike to Waterfall
6:15– Head Back To Yurt
6:45– Dinner Under the Lights and Post Hiking Activities
- First Dance
- Champagne/Cake/Toasts
- Campfire Snuggles & Smores
8:00 Photographers Leave
Choosing The Right Elopement Photographer
It is so important to find the right elopement photographer for you! You’ll want to make sure you both see eye to eye and vibe because you’ll be hanging out with them on the most important day of your lives! We suggest doing the following before reaching out to a photog!
- Research their portfolios – Check the gram’, their websites, and blogs to be sure you feel inspired and can see yourself in their photos. If you like what you see, read, and feel after viewing their socials, reach out!
- Client Testimonials- Don’t forget to look at their reviews on Google and Facebook! See what others are saying about them and make sure you like what your read!
- Meet up or chat! We always chat with our couples to make sure we both feel the connection! Ask them important questions that you might have and see if you like what they are saying!
Real Indiana Elopement Stories
We have photographed tons of Indiana Elopements! We are going to share a few that can help inspire you for your wedding day! Checkout their stories and photos below!
- Katie & Jess– A Turkey Run Elopement
- Chris & Rebecca– An Indianapolis Elopement at a brewery
- Josie & Joe – Another Turkey Run Elopement (Bonus: This one has a pup included!).
- Jared & Stephanie – Nature Inspired Indianapolis Elopement
- Morgan & Kyle – Lafayette Nature Elopement
- Jacki & Sam– West Lafayette Elopement at Historical House
Tips For Planning an Elopement in Indiana
- Secure Necessary Permits- Don’t forget this step! It is super important to secure the appropriate permits for wherever you are eloping. State Parks, local parks, hotels, etc all have certain requirements. We will apply for some of them for you, and sometimes we will direct you to the right spot (if it requires the couple to apply!). But don’t worry, we will help you through this whole process to make sure you are all LEGAL!
- Weather Considerations- We know Indiana is well, a little crazy. It could be snowing one day, and 100 degrees the next. Just make sure you consider the time of year you’d like to get married before choosing your location! And be equally as prepared for it to be polar opposite on your day because well with Indiana, you just never know haha!
- Local Vendors – We recommend working with other local vendors to ensure your day is everything you’d hoped and dreamed of. From florals to catering, we will send you a list of exactly what you need for your day!
- Backup Plan- It is ALWAYS good to have a backup plan for your location due to weather. We will work with you on making sure you are equally as happy with your backup plan! (AKA we always suggest airbnbs that can allow for the ceremony & activities to take place!).
Summing It Up// Elopement Packages Indiana
We hope that this helped you understand a little more about eloping in Indiana, what it could look like, and some of the logistics that might be included. Whether you’re contemplating an intimate ceremony in the Hoosier State or stumbled upon our blog during a quick Google search on tying the knot in Indiana, we were thrilled to have you along!
We hope we have left you youinspired and equipped with insights to embark on your own elopement adventure in Indiana. Now, if you are ready to hear more about our Elopement Packages in Indiana, reach out by clicking HERE! We’d love to capture your day!
XOXO,
Sam & Bryt
