Escape weddings are a type of marriage that takes place suddenly and secretly, often involving a hasty flight from the place of residence with the intention of marrying without parental approval. This type of marriage is made without the knowledge of the couple's family and friends, particularly their parents. Usually, those who escape have only one ceremony and do not organize a reception or celebration. The coronavirus pandemic has caused many couples to postpone or cancel their weddings, but some have chosen to go ahead with smaller ceremonies, now known as minimonies.
A minimony is a sweet word to describe a smaller, more intimate wedding that takes place on the intended date of the wedding. It typically involves an officiant (in-person or virtual), a small group of loved ones, and select vendors that would include a larger wedding. A microwedding is another option for couples who want to respect their original wedding date. I define an intimate wedding as 65 guests or fewer, but aside from the smaller number of guests, these weddings are like any other.
A typical microwedding includes a 10- to 15-minute ceremony followed by a brief reception (2 hours or so). With a guest list of 35 of your loved ones, a weekend wedding in a tropical destination, a designer wedding dress or an exquisite brunch at a five-star restaurant becomes much more feasible. Even if you get discounts from some vendors, once you consider travel and accommodation, your getaway can cost you that small wedding cost you were trying to flee from in the first place. A classic or traditional wedding is often a fairly formal occasion that includes a three-course seated dinner at a reception. Organizing a nautical-themed wedding is an intimate and timeless affair, from color combinations inspired by the ocean to anchors and buoys.
We spoke to getaway and wedding planner Lindsey Nickel (founder of Lovely Day Events) and Britt Cole and Francie Dorman (founders of Mavinhouse Events) to give us their thoughts on what to do and shouldn't do when you escape. In fact, we know that when it comes to an escape in front of a big wedding, couples who elope tend to have longer-lasting marriages than those who spend, spend and spend on a big wedding. A minimony is also designed to reduce the budget and the number of guests.
