Though it might sound a bit ridiculous and zany, many couples still have to make the hard choice between an elopement and arranged marriage. Yes, even today, young adults have to go against their family’s wishes to be with the person they love, crazy as that might be! But whatever the choice, arrangements have to be made in both instances for a lovely marriage.

However, elopement removes a lot of financial strain. Also, unlike traditional marriages, the goal is to tie the knot as fast as possible before parents or any other third party can interfere. But financial relief isn’t the only difference. Here’s a rundown of the major differences between marriage and elopement so you get a better idea about the distinctions between the two.

Elopement vs. Marriage: The Key Differences

Event Cost

The first key difference between traditional marriage and elopement is event cost. Weddings can be simple or glamorous. However, even for a simple wedding, the costs can easily cross the average $30,000 mark. You can also consider ways to bring down costs, like using an open field instead of renting halls, hiring a local DJ, ordering food from local catering services, etc.

As for glamorous ones, they entail huge expenses that can cross six-digit figures, which few can afford in today’s economy. Elopement, however, allows you to save lots of that expense on the ceremony itself as often it’s nothing more than taking vows at the church under a priest’s supervision unless you plan a small lunch or dinner afterward, which won’t cost much compared to a proper event.

Obligation for Family and Friends

The second key difference is the bride and groom’s obligation to family and friends. Though a family might find throwing a wedding financially taxing, that doesn’t mean they won’t spare expenses to make their children’s big day a blast. As such, you can usually expect a lot of guests in a traditional marriage ceremony.

Elopement, on the other hand, doesn’t require any obligation to anyone unless the bride and groom choose to. As such, in most elopements, only a few close friends or acquaintances are invited to an elopement marriage ceremony. However, if an elopement is planned, the bride and groom can opt for customizable wedding invitations to invite their near and dear ones.

Glamour and Authenticity  

The third factor that differentiates a traditional marriage and elopement is how much glamour and authenticity the bride and groom want. Usually, people want their marriages to be a memorable affair as it’s often the most important day of their lives, which is why they often try to make it as lavish as possible. But, of course, simple wedding ceremonies are still in style, as they’re more authentic.

For those who dislike all the glitz and glamour, an elopement ceremony is a perfect choice as it doesn’t involve any lavishness. This is probably why introverts usually opt for elopements as it fits them. Elopements are best for introverts who want that “just us” experience. But to be honest, a simple marriage is the better choice unless the families are against a couple getting together. 

Values

Among all the differences between marriage and elopement, the biggest difference is probably in the values. People who want traditional weddings often have more traditional values and want their loved ones to be part of their big day. They also want to commit to each other publicly to show they’re willing to endure all hardships even if the times are tough.

Couples who prefer to elope are often forced out of necessity since their families are the biggest obstacles in their union. However, many millennials and Gen X-ers tend to keep things as simple as possible, which is why they just enter into marriage with a simple church vow or signing marriage documents.

Studies show that in most instances, married couples tend to have stronger marriages than elopement couples due to the differences in values. However, since the family members are not involved in the marriage, it becomes difficult for couples to reconcile disagreements without more experienced supervision.

Making the Right Choice for Your Future

No matter how you look at it, a planned marriage is always much better than elopement for a multitude of reasons. Though elopement might sound cheaper, it comes with a lot of complications that might not be good for couples in the long haul. You should probably keep that in mind if you ever find yourself torn between traditional marriage and elopement.

But, in the grand scheme of things, no matter what path you prefer, the most important element is the love you share and securing that diamond ring on her finger. This symbolic gesture signifies the unbreakable bond and deep love you both hold, whether you exchange vows at an extravagant wedding or a private elopement. So, as you navigate the choices ahead, remember that the value lies in the love you cherish and the commitment that a precious diamond ring represents.