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Elopement
&
Small Weddings

Here are 4 reasons why we think elopement is for you!

Experience the Intimate & Magical Elopement

Sunset serenity: Yui and Tham sharing a moment, staring into the sunset on a bamboo raft. Captured by Wellington wedding photographer Kent Chua Photography.

Authenticity

When singer Kelly Clarkson eloped with Brandon Blackstock, she told ABC that her mum "was happy about it, that I wanted to do something for me because I usually walk on coals for everybody.” Remember, for many people, that the traditional white wedding just isn’t them. If you are beginning to feel like you’re putting on a show for hundreds of guests instead of hosting a celebration of your love, then maybe it’s time to turn your mind to an intimate ceremony that is authentically you? For those of you that aren’t natural entertainers or used to being the center of attention, elopement can give you that special day, unique to your love story.

Elopement romance: Kent and Annie sharing a kiss in My Ruapehu, New Zealand, captured during their intimate elopement shoot. Photo by Wellington wedding photographer Kent Chua Photography.

Extended Honeymoon

If you’re the intrepid type, it’s likely that you’ve been more excited about the honeymoon than the wedding itself. Eloping gives you the option to do the things you love on your wedding day. Love hiking, camping, travelling or climbing together? Then head to your favorite spot (or somewhere you’ve been dreaming of) to host the perfect ceremony. Life is an adventure and you’re about to begin the next, amazing chapter so why not start with it a bang? If you want to capture the precious moments, invite an elopement photographer along. Our details can be found here.

Romantic embrace: Kelly and Florian kissing at Wellington Waterfront. Captured by Wellington wedding photographer Kent Chua Photography.

Avoiding family drama and seating plan politics

For couples that are close to their families, a big wedding can be a beautiful way to bring loved ones together, but not everyone has tight-knit family bonds. If this is the case, arranging a large do could be distressing and your wedding day is no place to resolve awkward family dynamics. On the flipside, you might have a large, close family making the ever-growing guestlist an expensive headache. Choosing to elope will help you carefully consider who you really want to be there when you tie the knot, and if that is a small group (or just you both), then eloping might be the answer.

Exquisite moment: Groom holding up the bride in his arms at Makara Beach. Captured by Wellington wedding photographer Kent Chua Photography.

Weddings are Expensive

In New Zealand, the average wedding costs around $35,000! Could that money fund your next adventure, next home or vital childcare? If a traditional wedding isn’t high on the agenda then consider spending your hard-earned cash on your other priorities. Eloping allows you to create those special wedding memories, without the immense financial cost and without compromising on intimacy, romance and passion.

Chris & Loran Wedding - St Patrick's Church - Makara - Skinny Love Weddings - Kent Chua We

Elopement Packages & Pricing

  • $900 - 1 Hour

  • $1800 - 2 Hours

  • $2400 - 3 Hours

1 Photographer 

1 set Hair + Makeup

Unlimited Exposure​s

Short Video Clip

Consultations

Online Gallery

*Standard rate for travel outside of Wellington City (95cents/km)

Eloping in Wellington can be an incredibly romantic and intimate way to tie the knot. The capital city of New Zealand offers a diverse range of stunning landscapes, from rugged coastlines to lush green forests, making it the perfect destination for an intimate and unforgettable elopement.

One of the biggest advantages of eloping in Wellington is the flexibility it offers. With a smaller guest list, you have the freedom to choose a location that is meaningful to you, whether it's a secluded beach, a hidden waterfall or a secret garden. You can also plan your wedding day around the time of day that is most suitable for your chosen location, whether it's a sunrise or sunset ceremony.

Another advantage of eloping in Wellington is the cost savings. Traditional weddings can be expensive, with large guest lists, elaborate venues, and expensive catering. Elopements, on the other hand, are more cost-effective, allowing you to allocate more of your budget towards the things that matter most to you, such as a beautiful dress, a romantic honeymoon or a professional photographer to capture the memories.

Eloping in Wellington also gives you the opportunity to truly make the day your own. With a smaller guest list, you can personalize every detail of your wedding day, from the flowers to the music, making it a truly unique and intimate experience. You also have the freedom to create a wedding ceremony that is tailored to your preferences, whether it's a traditional wedding or something more relaxed and casual.

Wellington is also an amazing destination for elopement because of the range of outdoor activities, restaurants, and accommodation available. The city offers a wide range of activities for the couple and their guests, from hiking and biking to wine tasting and cultural tours.

Eloping in Wellington is a wonderful way to start your journey as a married couple, surrounded by natural beauty and the memories of an intimate and unforgettable day. With the help of a professional wedding planner or photographer, you can create a special and unique elopement experience that you will treasure for a lifetime.

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