Eloping in Virginia: Ideas of How to Get Married Privately
Over the years getting married in the United States has become associated with lavish ceremonies, long receptions, and costly expenses. Not only do you have to pay for food, cake, venue rental fees, photography, and more, you are also presented with stressful challenges. Those include choosing a date, whom to invite, whom to exclude, travel logistics for guests, and many other headaches.
While large weddings can be fun, they are not for everyone. Some couples only desire a small private ceremony between the two of them to tie the knot.
In Virginia, having a small, private wedding ceremony (or elopement) between the two of you could not be easier. You only need three things to get married in Virginia. Oneis a marriage license, which is very easy to get (read how). Two, is yourselves, and three is a marriage commissioner / officiant to perform the quick ceremony (me!). Once you have those these three things the options are endless as to where, when and how you can be married.
Here are some ideas on how to elope and get married in Virginia:
Get Married at a Scenic Spot in Virginia
Do you want to be married on the top of a mountain? How about exchanging your vows at a favorite spot along the Appalachian Trail? If you love the beach, you can be married at any public spot on the coastline of Virginia. Or, you can say your “I dos” at a local park not far from where you get your marriage license. If you like, add in a small photography package that I offer as well to capture both of you at your scenic spot together, and have some photo memories of your day to cherish. Check out my recommended locations in and around the Winchester, VA area that I suggest to couples looking for a nice spot to get married at.
Get Married at the Courthouse
If you are looking for only a super-quick marriage, it can’t be much quicker than getting married right at the spot where you get your marriage license. I have married many couples right outside the entrance to the courthouse in Winchester, VA right after they obtained their marriage license. Sometimes couples will request this as they are having a ceremony out of the country, and want to be sure everything is legal in Virginia, their state of residence. Other times couples simply want to be married with as little frills as possible so they can go about enjoying their day together.
Get Married at Your Home
If you do not feel like choosing a public spot to get married, or going out to the courthouse, I will gladly come to you! I have married couples on their front lawn and even in their living room. No witnesses are required at all…again all that is needed to make a marriage legal in Virginia is a marriage license and someone who is legally able to perform marriages.
Get Married at My Home
For couples looking for a completely private and intimate civil elopement ceremony with only the two of them in attendance, I always offer my Woodland Package which is held at my own personal residence. My home is located on a quiet mountain side property with a well-maintained hiking path leading to a wooded deck overlooking the woods. I have married many couples here who want their wedding day to be something special shared by only the two of them. You can exchange your vows in the peacefulness of the woods, surrounded by only the sounds of nature. Plus if you are animal person, you are welcome to visit our pet pigs too!
In Virginia, You Can Get Married Your Way!
As you can see in Virginia you can get married at any place, on any day, at any time you like. It is all about giving both of you the options to choose how you would like to exchange your vows to your significant other.
If you have any other questions or have made the decision that you would like to get married, contact me through my online form or text me at 540-686-1220. I will respond ASAP and do my best to help you get married YOUR way!
