HOW TO PLAN A FABULOUS ELOPEMENT

If you were planning on getting married this year chances are you weren’t planning an elopement.  While they have always sounded like fabulously romantic affairs (and something we’ve probably all threatened to do in the heat of any wedding-related disagreements) it’s something that very few of us have actually gone through with. 

But as more couples find creative ways to adapt to the disruption caused by the coronavirus, elopements are becoming more popular. In fact, one of the most searched terms of the past 90 days has been “Gretna Green” - the Scottish parish famous for impromptu weddings since the 18th century.*

Of course, it’s not for everyone. BUT if this is a bit of you, here’s everything we think you need to organise a fabulously chic elopement. 

 

WHAT TO WEAR 

 

Elopements are informal affairs. There are no rules or restrictions telling you what to wear so keep it relaxed and understated. We’ve talked to lots of eloping brides who are planning to do a big party in 2021, so perhaps think about buying something you’ll be able to rewear at that event too (and long after). We love the idea of using it as an opportunity to wear something different - channel your inner Bianca Jagger and opt for a jumpsuit or suit. 

 

LOOK ONE: THE SUIT

Inspiration image: Off-White 2020 Resort; Suit Jacket and Trousers, The OWN Studio; Scent, Loewe 001 Woman Edp; Scrunch earrings, Completed Works, Sandals, Gianvito Rossi

 

LOOK TWO: THE JUMPSUIT

 

Main image: STYLE 007 Jumpsuit, The OWN Studio; Sunglasses, LEOWE; Mules, Bottega Veneta; Gold hoops, Otiumberg

   

LOOK THREE: THE COCKTAIL DRESS 

 

Main image: @theindiaedit in BM 005 halter dress (also available in ivory), The OWN Studio; Croc bag, Staud; Scent, Tom Ford; Bracelet, Third Crown; Mules, Kurt Geiger

 

HOW TO CELEBRATE 

So you’ve said your vows and it’s all official - what next? Typically it’s an opportunity to go to a fabulously swanky restaurant and drink lots of champagne with your nearest and dearest. While it’s not possible to dine out at the moment, don’t let that hold you back. Instead, organise an intimate, socially distanced picnic in the park - think bunting, streamers, soft rugs and luxury hampers to dine al-fresco in style. Ask your friends to dress it for you beforehand, so you can arrive and it’s already set up. Try Meri Meri and Party Pieces for cool decorations.

 

 

Or if you want to dine in style at home, takeaway services like Supper are bringing your favourite fine dining restaurants to your doorstep. Other posh restaurants like Hakkasan are now on Deliveroo or if you live in East London, our favourite restaurant Bistrotheque also delivers. 

Music is a big one when it comes to creating a fun and memorable atmosphere - read our blog on how to make an incredible wedding playlist along with a few must-have music recommendations here. 

 

DON'T FORGET ... 

 

While it might not be the big wedding celebration you had planned, in years to come you’ll want to look back and see the moment you got married. Think about booking a photographer for an hour or so to take pictures of you after the ceremony. We love Benjamin Wheeler, Joanna Brown Photos and Hannah Lovemore for their fashion forward approach to wedding photography. 

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The studio will be open again from late July!  Email us at info@theownstudio.com to book an appointment. If you can’t wait that long, we are continuing to run our sample postage service. Get in touch for more details 

*The Sunday Times’ Style Magazine