How to Elope

Instructions

• Step 1: List the pros and cons Eloping is a big decision, since you might disappoint some of your nearest and dearest. Then again, the money everyone will save on a big wedding might be appreciated. Make a list of pros and cons. If you still want to elope—go for it!
• Step 2: Decide where to elope Decide where to elope. Is the purpose just to get a quickie marriage or to have a fun romantic escapade? Is it Vegas, City Hall, or Paris? An ordained Elvis or a justice of the peace?
• Step 3: Get a marriage license How you get the marriage license will depend on where you’re eloping. Some places require a waiting period and/or a blood test. Towns like Las Vegas require neither. Consult the county clerk’s office—either online or over the phone—where you plan to marry.
• TIP: Eloping to Paris is not easy. It requires at least one person to reside in France for at least 40 days prior to marriage. It also requires piles of documents.
• Step 4: Get a witness or two You’ll need to have one or two witnesses, depending on the local law. Certain wedding chapels in places like Vegas will provide their own.
• TIP: Know who can perform your ceremony. This can vary depending on the location, from a judge to a friend who has recently been ordained on the internet.
• Step 5: Just do it You’ve got the license, the witnesses, the 35 to 55 bucks for the ceremony. Just do it! Elope!
• Step 6: Make the announcement Now that you’re Mr. and Mrs., it’s time to let everyone know. Prepare cards announcing your elopement—and promising everyone a party when you hit 10 years. Invest the money you saved on a wedding, and in a decade the interest alone will pay for the party! Congrats!
• FACT: Each year 110,000 marriage licenses are issued in Las Vegas.

You Will Need

• A partner
• A marriage license
• Witnesses
• An official to preside over the ceremony
• A place to get married
• Some money
• Airline tickets and hotel reservations