Elopement – What Do I Need to Do?

Firstly you will need to apply for a marriage licence with BDM and a celebrant willing to do this and two witnesses.

When planning an elopement, there are a few key steps to consider. First and foremost, you will need to apply for a marriage license with the appropriate authority, such as the Bureau of Births, Deaths, and Marriages in New Zealand (BDM) in your jurisdiction. This legal requirement ensures that your marriage is recognised and officially registered. Next, it’s important to find a celebrant who is willing to officiate your elopement. Collaborating with a celebrant who shares your vision and understands the intimate nature of an elopement can enhance the experience.

They will guide you through the process, help you craft personalized vows, and ensure that the ceremony reflects your unique love story. In addition to the celebrant, you will need two witnesses to be present during the elopement ceremony.

These witnesses play a vital role in signing the marriage documents, attesting to the authenticity of your union. It’s advisable to choose individuals who are close to you and can share in the joy of your special day.

An Elopement Can be Fun and Adventurous!

While eloping offers a sense of adventure and intimacy, it doesn’t mean you have to forgo capturing the moment.

Consider hiring a videographer to document the elopement, allowing you to share cherished memories with your friends and family at a later time. This way, even if they couldn’t be physically present, they can still be a part of your journey by witnessing your love story unfold through the footage.

The couple pictured eloped on the Mountain. They had two witnesses to sign. I married them and then they climbed the mountain. They carefully planned their elopement, ensuring that all the necessary legal requirements were met with the breathtaking mountain as their backdrop.

Remember, eloping allows you the freedom to create a unique and intimate wedding experience tailored to your desires.

Whether it’s an enchanting mountaintop elopement, a tranquil beach ceremony, or any other location that holds meaning for you, it’s an opportunity to celebrate your love in a way that resonates deeply with both of you.