Outer Banks Elopements: More Popular Than Ever!
I think I’ve performed more elopements on the Outer Banks this year than ever before. That fact has caused me to wonder….’Why?’. Is it because we’re coming out of the craziest two years in modern history? Is it because no one wants a big wedding anymore? Or is it because weddings have a tendency to mushroom and it’s easy for plans to evolve into something never desired? Most elopements are just the two, but it’s not uncommon to also have 3 or 4 guests. This blog has two parts: #1…Reasons why couples are choosing to Elope. And #2…How to Elope on the Outer Banks.
5 TOP REASONS WHY COUPLES ARE CHOOSING TO ELOPE TO THE OUTER BANKS
*** Avoiding all the Drama: Couples tell me all the time, “We are eloping because we just wanted it to be the two of us and that big ocean.” No one else to worry about. No one else to try to please. Total focus on the two of you: your promise, your moment, your love.
*** Tired of Waiting: I wish I had a dollar for every time a couple have told me they were eloping because they were just tired of waiting for the stars to all align. Family schedules. Pandemics. You name it, there’s always something. It’s very common for a couple to call me and say, “Rev. Jay, we’re getting married next week! Can you help us make this come true?”
*** Been There, Done That: Lots of couples have already had that big production wedding and are just longing for an intimate moment with the love of their life. “We’re doing this for us this time, and we’ll have a party later at home to celebrate with others.”
*** Saving Some Serious Bank: Let’s be honest, inflation is impacting everyone, and $500 compared to $10,000 (or more) is a no-brainer for many. You could have one heck of a honeymoon with the money saved.
*** The Outer Banks is the Perfect Elopement Option: This barrier island that laces along the Atlantic Ocean is a natural, laid back, accessible getaway. There’s something magical about it that makes it truly perfect for a sunrise or sunset elopement. With your toes in the sand, the world fades away and the awareness of what really matters comes to life.
HOW TO ELOPE ON THE OUTER BANKS OF NORTH CAROLINA
It doesn’t get much easier than an Outer Banks elopement. The following is what you will want to know.
*** NC Marriage License: North Carolina has made it about easy as it comes to get a Marriage License. There is no waiting period and it usually only takes carrying a valid driver’s license or legit ID. You’ll be leaving the Register of Deeds office after about 15 minutes with the legal documents in your hand.
*** A Legal Officiant Recognized by the State of North Carolina: There are ultimately only two things that you absolutely need in order to be legally married on the Outer Banks. A NC marriage license, and an ordained officiant recognized by the state. The two witnesses required to complete the marriage license can be two random adults on the beach or in the area (never a problem). Be sure to choose an legit officiant that will help you create a life moment that you’ll always treasure.
*** Ceremony Location: Most couples choose to use the beach for their ceremony but there are other options on the Outer Banks that are used as well: Jockey’s Ridge, The Whalehead Club, The Sanderling Resort, Elizabethan Gardens, Roanoke Island Festival Park, lighthouse grounds, a pier, a park, or even the backyard of a beautiful rental home. Some locations have fees, but there are many free options, including the beach.
*** Potential Additions: Even though the elopement couple is not looking for the show and production, they often times will want a few others on the team to make the dream come true. The most common elopement team addition is a professional photographer, but it’s very common for others to be involved; hair and makeup, florists, etc. A great resource is the Outer Banks Wedding Association.
