To elope is to capture the feeling of running away together, mixing romance and rebellion, creating a one-of-a-kind origin story. Kansas City, known for its speakeasy's, jazz, and art deco architecture, is the perfect backdrop for a stylish elopement.
While an elopement can be defined in many ways, from the simple and quick to the detailed and highly styled, I'm speaking to the dreamers who are putting intention behind every choice. You might pay particular attention to personal styling, or want to write your vows in a handmade book, or setting up a wedding table in front of the sunset. I wrote this guide to help couples just like you plan a personally meaningful, stress-free elopement in Kansas City.
One: Prep Work
The first step to planning your elopement is to sit down with your partner and lay a strong foundation for your celebration. For a strong foundation, you'll need to be on the same page about your vision, priorities, budget, and guest list.
For an elopement, your vision will describe the overall style, mood, and intentions of the day. Slow, romantic, natural? Adventurous, stylish, modern? This will help you create the container for your experience. Be sure to identify your priorities and what matters most. While you're at it, be sure to discuss why you're eloping. There are so many ways to celebrate your marriage- why is this right for you?
Budgeting for elopements is just as tricky as budgeting for any other type of wedding celebration, because no two are the same. While you can get married for as little as the cost of a marriage license ($50 in Jackson County), you likely also want some services or accoutrement. Photography, attire, hair and makeup, location fees, and personal flowers are just a few of the expenses that get your average elopement cost to $10-15,000. Be sure to create a line item budget based on your own vision and priorities.
And finally... a guest list for an elopement? While we typically think of elopements as only involving the couple and an officiant, many couples consider involving a handful (>20) of witnesses, immediate family, and/or best friends. You can still keep the emphasis on the ceremony, and have some loved ones to witness/and or hang out with afterward if that's your vibe. Some couples also consider having a separate, larger celebration before or after their elopement.
If you are planning these celebrations in tandem, especially if they work together to create your vision or share a budget, you will want to consider it when doing your prep work.
Two: Location, Location, Location
There are some gorgeous spots right here in Kansas City that can provide a beautiful elopement backdrop. Whether you're looking for...
Rivers, lakes, and bluffs
Parks
Quaint towns
Artistic structures
Wide open landscapes
Many locations offer discounts for elopements, small weddings, off-season dates, and/or weekdays. With a smaller guest list, it will be easier to wiggle around these parameters for major savings on dream spaces.
I have a few of my favorite small wedding venues here, or you can get a custom list of recs by reaching out here. Photographers are also an excellent research for scouting out amazing locations. Don't be afraid to consult with a pro for personalized recommendations.
Once you've booked a location, photographer, or elopement planner you can consider your elopement date official!
Three: Line Up Key Services
Whether you're considering photography, videography, flowers, or dinner reservations, you'll want to get started creating your team. Your list of vendors will be smaller than a traditional wedding, but you'll still get to work with each creative to design something personally meaningful.
Find wedding vendors who love elopements and small weddings, especially if they offer special packages for celebrations like yours. Just like with venues, many vendors even offer specialized packages for elopements and micro weddings.
Four: Get Ready
While you're waiting for your elopement date, you have a handful of personalizing elements to pull together.
You'll need to figure out what you're wearing, for one, as well as how you want to style your hair, makeup, and nails. Perhaps there is a salon in the area that can pamper you in the morning, or a stylist who can come on site.
Your ceremony and vows are another important element. Your officiant can work on your ceremony "script", and I always recommend recording vows in vow books. You might also want to consider any special music.
If you have any guests or witnesses, it also helps to get them on the same page. You can print invitations, and/or create a wedding website to help spread the message.
Five: Get Married
Within 30 days of your elopement date, you'll want to apply for a marriage license. If you're getting married in Jackson County, can do so online here.
You will need valid ID for the both of you, plus the $50 fee. Once your application is approved, you will need to go into the courthouse together to pick up your license. After your ceremony (anywhere in Missouri), your officiant will sign the marriage license and submit it back to the courthouse, making it official!
Please Note: State and county marriage license requirements often change. The above information is for guidance and should not be regarded as legal advice. If you're looking to elope in Kansas City and need assistance coordinating your wedding logistics, contact us for the most current information.
More Kansas City Elopement Tips
Elopements bring a certain type of magic to the wedding scene, including flair, intentionality, and a focused experience. For the right couple, an elopement is the perfect solution for an undeniably you celebration, with all of the elements you care about, and none that don't.
Curious about working with an elopement planner? I offer special packages for weddings under 20 guests that keep a focus on the ceremony. It includes location scouting, custom vendor recs for creatives who love elopements, as well as all the styling, organization, and expertise it takes to make it happen all right here in Kansas City. Reach out to get started.
xoxo
Comments