Over the last few years, there has been a growing trend for couples to elope for their wedding day. Not only can this make the day more affordable, but it drastically reduces the need for planning and can keep the day more personal. In this guide, we’ve covered five romantic destinations for British couples to elope to, along with some useful tips.
Paris, France
The City of Love is not only romantic, but it’s just a short trip over the Channel. With the Eiffel Tower as a backdrop, newly-weds can indulge in fine French cuisine, munch on delicious pastries or take early morning strolls through Montmartre.
To marry in France, Britons must be in France for at least 40 days before the wedding. The couple must bring translated and authenticated birth certificates and a completed “Certificate of Non-Impediment to Marriage” from a UK register office. A French civil ceremony is legally required, but can be followed with a symbolic ceremony at another location.
Las Vegas, USA
While Las Vegas has long been the cliché for elopement, there is a good reason for this. Marriages can be processed in as quick as fifteen minutes at small chapels or in lavish hotel ceremonies. Couples simply need to obtain a licence at the Clark County Marriage License Bureau and certify the certificate when back in the UK.
There are endless activities to do in Las Vegas, with the city known for being an entertainment capital, dining hotspot and of course, gambling Mecca. Before arrival, visitors should familiarise themselves with online gambling games such as the Spin Till You Win Roulette table game, with its immersive gameplay and high rewards replicating a Vegas-style gambling experience.
Bali, Indonesia
Celebrated for being one of the most beautiful tropical paradises in the globe, Bali is hard to beat when it comes to affordable luxury and romance. This Indonesian island offers a rich cultural history and breathtaking natural surroundings, offering couples a chance to swap the church aisle for a white sandy beach.
To legally marry in Bali, couples will need to declare a religion on their certificate, with both couples of the same faith. Required documents such as passports and birth certificates must be translated into Indonesian and certified at the Indonesian Embassy in London before travel.
New York City, USA
New York City is another popular elopement destination for British couples due to its iconic cosmopolitan setting and the relative ease of the process. Popular wedding spots include Central Park, outside the New York Public Library, or along the banks of the Hudson.
British couples will need valid passports, an appointment at the City Clerk’s Office for a marriage licence, and two witnesses to successfully elope in NYC. The licence has a 24-hour waiting period, so visitors should plan their ceremony at least a day after their appointment.
Gibraltar
An especially easy elopement destination for British residents is Gibraltar. As a British Overseas Territory, the bureaucratic process is straightforward and a ceremony can be arranged within 48 hours of arrival. Only valid passports, birth certificates, and proof of single status are required.
Visitors can expect a warm climate all year round with beautiful surroundings including the Alameda Botanical Gardens or sandy beach with Rock of Gibraltar views. This option provides convenience and is more affordable than most British cities.
As you can see, there are many far off destinations to elope to for marriage that will stay close to your heart forever – and they all have experience performing ceremonies and producing documents for British visitors.
Leave a Reply