Elopement is a term used to describe when a couple gets married in secret or without the consent of their families. The word “elope” comes from the Middle Dutch word “lopen,” which means “to run away.” While elopement used to carry a negative connotation, it has become a popular choice for many couples looking for a more intimate and private way to tie the knot.
Reasons Why Couples Elope
There are many reasons why couples choose to elope instead of having a traditional wedding. Here are a few:
Financial reasons: Weddings can be expensive, and elopement can be a more affordable option for couples on a budget.
Family disagreements: Sometimes, families may not approve of the couple’s relationship or wedding plans, and elopement can be a way to avoid conflict.
A desire for intimacy and privacy: Elopement can provide a more intimate and private experience for the couple, free from the distractions and expectations of a traditional wedding.
Spontaneity and romance: Some couples may choose to elope on a whim, as a spontaneous and romantic way to start their marriage.
Pros and Cons of Eloping
Like any wedding option, elopement has its advantages and disadvantages. Here are a few:
Advantages of elopement:
- More affordable
- Less stress and pressure
- More intimate and private
- Can be more romantic and spontaneous
Disadvantages of elopement:
- May disappoint or upset family and friends
- May miss out on traditional wedding experiences
- May have legal and financial consequences
Examples of the word “elope” in regular use:
- The young couple eloped to Las Vegas to get married in a spur-of-the-moment decision.
- After facing opposition from their families, the pair decided to elope to a remote island for a private wedding ceremony.
- The story of Romeo and Juliet involves the two lovers eloping to escape their feuding families.
- The woman’s father disapproved of her relationship with her partner, so they decided to elope in secret.
- The celebrity couple eloped to a scenic location to avoid media attention on their wedding day.
Synonyms for “elope”:
- Run away
- Escape
- Flee
- Abscond
- Bolt
Elope main verb and tenses
| Infinitive | Present Participle (continuous) | Past Tense | Past Participle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elope | Eloping | Eloped | Eloped |
Simple / Indefinite Present Tense
I elope
You/We/They elope
He/She/It elopes
Present Continuous Tense
I am eloping
You/We/They are eloping
He/She/It is eloping
Present Perfect Tense
I have eloped
You/We/They have eloped
He/She/It has eloped
Present Perfect Continuous Tense
I have been eloping
You/We/They have been eloping
He/She/It has been eloping
Past Simple Tense
I eloped
You/We/They eloped
He/She/It eloped
Past Continuous Tense
I was eloping
You/We/They were eloping
He/She/It was eloping
Past Perfect Tense
I had eloped
You/We/They had eloped
He/She/It had eloped
Past Perfect Continuous Tense
I had been eloping
You/We/They had been eloping
He/She/It had been eloping
Future Simple Tense
I will/shall elope
You/We/They will/shall elope
He/She/It will/shall elope
Future Continuous Tense
I will/shall be eloping
You/We/They will/shall be eloping
He/She/It will/shall be eloping
Future Perfect Tense
I will/shall have eloped
You/We/They will/shall have eloped
He/She/It will/shall have eloped
Future Perfect Continuous Tense
I will/shall have been eloping
You/We/They will/shall have been eloping
He/She/It will/shall have been eloping
FAQ
Can anyone elope?
Yes, anyone can elope if they choose to do so. There are no specific requirements or restrictions on who can elope.
Is elopement legal in all states/countries?
The legality of elopement varies depending on the state or country in which you are located. It’s important to research the laws in your area and obtain any necessary legal documents before eloping.
Can we still have a reception after eloping?
Yes, many couples choose to have a reception or celebration after eloping to include their family and friends in the joyous occasion.
Is eloping cheaper than having a traditional wedding?
Eloping can be a more affordable option for couples on a budget since there are no venue, catering, or decor costs to consider. However, the cost of elopement can vary depending on the location, photography, and other factors.
How do we tell our families that we eloped?
Telling your families that you eloped can be a sensitive topic, but it’s important to be honest and communicate your reasons for choosing to elope. Consider sharing photos or videos from your elopement to include them in the celebration.
