We're seeing a big shift in weddings come 2021. Thanks to COVID-19, the days of large-scale, massive wedding ceremonies are falling to the wayside. More and more couples have decided to cut the guest list and elope, focusing instead on the gorgeous scenery, fabulous food, and immaculate outfits. Eloping allows you the opportunity to have a truly unique backdrop for your ceremony! If you're thinking of eloping, here are some inspiration combinations from the minds of our stylists - dresses & places we think will be totally stunning.
St. Augustine, Florida
If you're looking for a romantic, dreamy, tropical destination for your big day, we absolutely love St. Augustine, Florida. The oldest city in the United States, this city is dripping in rich history and historic architecture. Add in some gorgeous tropical scenery and you're guaranteed to have photos that will take your breath away. One of our favorite places we've found is Villa 1565, a local hotel featuring a stunning courtyard and hanging branches!
Our bridal gown recommendation for this location? Rebecca Ingram's Darby, a fitted and sexy crepe dress featuring a modern neckline, frosted sparkle detailing, and an effortless train.
Coeur d'Alene, Idaho
There are few places in the United States as gorgeous as Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Nestled in the top corner of Idaho, this area is known for its' gorgeous lakes, fabulous hiking trails, and perfect weather. Whether you're wanting a lakeside ceremony or a gorgeously intimate backyard bash, Coeur d'Alene features venues to fit every vibe of wedding.
If you're thinking about this fabulous Pacific Northwest getaway for your big day, we'd style you in Essense of Australia's style 7115. A flattering soft a-line dress featuring an off-the-shoulder neckline and a bold yet feminine lace pattern. Combined with a fabulous champagne under color (lovingly called 'moscato'), this gown is just waiting for a bride to wear wildflowers in her hair and frolick through the fields!
Thorncrown Chapel in Eureka Springs, Arkansas
If you're a bride who wants to stay a touch traditional while still having a breathtaking elopement, look no further than Thorncrown Chapel based in Eureka Springs. A short 5 hour drive from Wichita, this Ozark getaway totally transports you into a totally different world. This gorgeous glass chapel allows for the ultimate natural lighting while also highlighting the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains. We can only imagine this location at sunrise!
If this whimsical and romantic getaway seems like the location for you, we'd recommend something bohemian and natural, like Chic Nostalgia's "Celina." Part of their 2021 collection, she features a bold lace pattern, frosted beading, and the ultimate champagne undertone. We think this gown, surrounded by the gorgeous trees and foliage, would make the ultimate bohemian dream look!
Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis, Missouri
Elopements don't automatically mean a rural, wilderness area. If you're more of a city type of couple, finding a great metropolitan location can create some fabulous backdrops for you. We have absolutely fallen in love with garden elopements; you can save on flowers & decor by choosing a venue, like Missouri's Botanical Garden in St. Louis, that comes ready-to-wed with their gorgeous florals!
We think that a botantical-themed wedding like this is just asking for a flowy, whimsical a-line gown like Rebecca Ingram's Iris. The long-sleeves add a touch of modesty while the blush undertone will capture the surrounding flowers perfectly. Style with a flower crown like the model's and you're guaranteed to be the most perfect garden fairy!
The Gathering Place in Wasilla, Alaska
If there's one place that's collectively on the Dress Gallery bucket list, it's Alaska. This gorgeous Northern state is literally full of gorgeous back drops for your wedding. We're biased, but we love The Gathering Place in Wasilla - they're owned by family members of one of our stylists! This rustic yet elegant rural bed & breakfast is a perfect getaway for your elopement. Plus, during certain months, you're able to see the Northern Lights! How perfect would those wedding photos be?!
We think that a dress like Allure's 9774 would be breathtaking with a wonderful wintery setting. The gorgeous Mikado skirt would perfectly pair with fresh snow and the off-the-shoulder neckline keeps you feeling sexy, yet covered. Style with a stylish fur wrap for both warmth and fashion and you're guaranteed to feel like the most regal snow queen!
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park in California
If you're looking for some drama for your wedding elopement, you can't get much more dramatic than the largest trees in the world. For real, they literally have the world's largest tree - its' name is the General Sherman tree and it's so large, you can't capture it standing straight up and down in a single photo from the ground. This gorgeous area has recently been closed down to the wildfires on the West coast, which makes this area all the more special and unique as firefighters work tirelessly to save these ancient trees.
If you think that hiding up in the tree branches might be a great idea for your wedding, we recommend something flowy and fabulous like Morilee's 2191. This soft a-line gown features illusion straps, a subtle plunging neckline, and trickling lace throughout the skirt. This is the ultimate dress to go hiking in!
Which destination / dress combo is your favorite?! Let us know in the comments or on Facebook and keep on the lookout for our next installment!