Elopements

Eloping in Texas: Everything You Need to Know

Eloping in Texas

Eloping in Texas can be a very exciting and rewarding experience, especially if you’re looking to have a small intimate ceremony. There are so many beautiful places around the state that will allow you to elope without any hassle. 

The process of eloping in Texas is surprisingly easy, but there are a few things to take into consideration before making the decision. We have put together everything you need to know about eloping in Texas without all the fuss and fanfare.

1. What is the difference between getting married and eloping?

In its literal sense, to elope means to run away and get married secretly and without consent. But in recent years, it’s also come to take on a slightly different meaning. Today, eloping can also look like a very intimate wedding ceremony between either just the two of you or including 2-10 of your closest friends/family. It can be a simple affair at a courthouse or it can be an incredible adventure in a national park. The options are endless when it comes to your elopement in Texas. 

Eloping in Texas with Stefani Ciotti photography

2. How much does it cost to elope in Texas? 

According to The Knot the average wedding in Texas is around $30,000. Between the venue, all of your vendors, decorations, food for all of your guests, etc., a wedding can quickly and easily become a big financial undertaking.

Eloping in Texas on the other hand can be organized for significantly less and is a great alternative for couples who still want to celebrate their union with their closest friends and family, but would prefer to avoid the costs and/or stress associated with planning a big traditional wedding.

3. The process of eloping in Texas

When it comes to planning your elopement there are a few things to consider:

  1. Choose a location and date
  2. Hire an ordained minister
  3. Hire a local elopement photographer and any other wedding vendor you may like
  4. Collect the necessary documentation to apply for a marriage license in your county*
  5. Apply for a marriage license at your local County Clerk’s office
  6. Wait 72 hours for the marriage license to become valid
  7. Elope in Texas within 90 days
  8. Sign your marriage license and return it to your County Clerk’s office

*We recommend that you check your local marriage laws and requirements.

Read more about the best place to elope in Texas!

4. How do I find an officiant to marry us? 

You can ask a family member or one of your friends to become an online ordained minister in Texas. Or you can hire one very easily from one of the following websites:

Texas Wedding Ministers

Wedding Wire

Eventective

5. Do we need witnesses for our ceremony?

In the state of Texas, it is not required by law to have witnesses present during your ceremony.

In case you are not eloping in Texas, please check the local state laws. Every state in the US has different requirements and laws.

Romantic sunset session during elopement in Texas

6. Eloping in Texas – The Takeaway

An elopement is a beautiful way to tie the knot in an intimate setting surrounded by your closest loved ones. For all of those who feel more comfortable having a smaller wedding with fewer wedding guests, eloping is a great option, especially during this time.

If you’re looking for help with your wedding or would be interested in more information about eloping in Texas in general, please contact us here!

If you’re ready to start looking for an elopement and wedding photographer in Texas, we’d love to chat!

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