There is no right answer when it comes to choosing between a Hawaii civil wedding and an elopement. For some couples, this is a no-brainer, but for others, it is a tough choice. If you consider the family and societal expectations, the overall experience, and the difference in cost, there are a few things to consider. It’s what makes the difference when deciding between a Hawaii civil wedding and an elopement.
So, join us as we take a closer look at the differences between these two types of weddings.
The Difference in Guests
One of the main differences between Hawaii civil weddings and elopements is the guest size. You can have a super intimate development where it’s just you, your partner, and your offenders, or you can enlarge the ceremony with the attendance of his few special guests. In general terms, a Hawaii elopement is a ceremony where 20 or fewer guests attend. And then there is also an adventurous elopement, which is a unique and outdoorsy experience for couples who seek thrilling experiences.
Hawaii civil weddings, on the other hand, can be small, with only around 30 guests, or 300 or more. This means you have to schedule your day, book a venue to hold that many people, and organize transportation and entertainment for your guests. Contrary to this, elopement can take place anywhere you want and at any time you decide. It’s a much more free-flowing event.
Think About the Budget
If you’re planning to get married in Hawaii, one of the main items you should consider is the budget. You will find that there is a very big difference between the budget for an elopement and the one for a civil wedding. Once you start planning, you will realize that weddings can be crazy expensive. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $150 and much more per person.
When it comes to hosting a Hawaii civil wedding, you have to think about booking a venue, hiring a caterer to provide your food and drinks, and hiring a decorator (if needed). Then there is transportation and entertainment, which is also something that will take up a lot of your budget. Hosting a civil wedding means that you are paying to celebrate your love with a big party that all your favorite people will attend.
However, eloping in Hawaii is typically the less expensive version of a wedding. No need to think about vendors, booking venues, setting specific dates, or creating seating charts. All that’s needed is for you two to show up and maybe a few of your family and friends. This doesn’t mean that you settle to get less from your celebration. You are just deciding on having a more budget-friendly and personal ceremony, after which you can surely party.
Choosing Venues
For the most part, elopements can happen just about anywhere. You can’t go wrong if you choose Hawaii’s local beaches, its exquisite mountain tops, or forests. Couples usually choose a place that is meaningful to them, like a special vacation or the place where they had their first date. Since you’ll be getting married without the hassle of organizing the attendance of a huge number of guests, a Hawaiian beach wedding may just be what you’re looking for.
A traditional Hawaii civil wedding may require a lot more involvement and planning, depending on your guest count. You may need to choose a venue that fits the number of people that will be attending. Also, a small setup may be required. You will need to think about keeping them entertained, hiring a caterer, decorating the venue, and much more. Keep in mind that venues where you can host a reception with a larger number of guests are usually booked well in advance, so you will require early planning and booking.
Questions to Ask About an Elopement or a Civil Wedding
Still not sure whether you want a Hawaii civil wedding or an elopement? Start by thinking about whether you want guests to attend your ceremony and how many. If you are craving a private and intimate ceremony, elopement is the answer. If you have any urge to call family and friends to celebrate with you, it is a traditional civil Hawaiian wedding.
How much are you two invested as a couple in planning the whole event? With most couples having a busy daily schedule, they feel that their ideal option is to elope in Hawaii. It provides them with an easy and stress-free experience. Then, there are those who wish to go all in and dedicate their time to the details. These couples want a traditional civil wedding.
Hawaiian destination weddings are all about the natural beauty, but this doesn’t mean you can’t have either of the options. What you should ask yourselves is whether you dream of a ceremony deep in the forest, standing in front of a waterfall. Or maybe you wish to have the wedding take place at a luxury resort where everyone will have their designated seat? This will give you the answer to whether you go with a Hawaii elopement or a traditional wedding.
Although both ceremonies are legally binding, the civil wedding follows an official process with a state-appointed officiant. For an elopement, you can just choose to exchange your vows and swear to eternal love on the top of a cliff without the presence of any officiant.
Conclusion
Regardless of what you choose, Hawaii offers an unforgettable setting for your big day. All you have to do to make your day special is decide on the type of wedding you wish to have. After all, this is your day, and you decide how you spend it. Make it intimate and very personal, or share your love and joy with the world – it’s up to you two.
That said, we offer a range of wedding services to suit your vision. Choose between a simple beach elopement or a structured Hawaii civil wedding. We can help you create a ceremony that reflects your love story.
Still deciding on the best option for you? Fill out our contact page to get expert advice on planning your wedding in Hawaii. Or, explore our Locations and Wedding Services pages, plus the rest of our blogs, to make the decision much easier!