DIY Life

We've come a long way since the days when eloping was a scandal and something couples did on the sly. Though most people still opt for a fancy wedding with all the trimmings, some couples want their Big Day to be, well, not quite so big.

There are lots of reasons to elope and many ways to do it without going to Las Vegas or upsetting your friends and family. If you want to say "I do" in this non-traditional but still romantic way, here are a few tips to keep in mind.
Don't lie - Unless you really must keep your wedding a secret, don't lie to your friends and family about your plans to elope. If you want your nuptials to be just you and your sweetheart, then simply tell people you're planning a small ceremony for just the two of you and will "celebrate with everyone afterwards."

Have a reception - A wedding reception doesn't have to be an elaborate affair. Consider a backyard barbecue, a simple Sunday afternoon get-together, or a quiet dinner at a local restaurant. Even a simple cocktail party will give everyone a chance to congratulate you and feel like a part of the celebration.

Picture it - Wherever the ceremony takes place, be sure to take lots of pictures or better yet, video. Not only will you be glad to have it in years to come, but it will also be a great way to share the event with those who weren't there.

Stay local... - If you plan to have your ceremony locally, check into all the laws and regulations so you're not caught by surprise on the big day. A quick call to your local courthouse will tell you all you need to know about how to obtain a license, what kind of paperwork you'll need, and if there's a waiting period between getting the license and getting married.

...or take a trip - There are plenty of tourist destinations, from Disneyworld to overseas beach resorts, that offer wedding packages with everything you need, right down to an appointment with the officiating clergy.

Be unique - Put your own individual twist on the event. Did you meet your beloved while scuba diving? Have your ceremony underwater. Do you both like skydiving? Say your vows at 14,000 feet. Are you both geeks? Take a cruise tailor-made just for you and get married by the ship's captain.

Enjoy yourself - Above all, relax and have fun. Don't agonize whether your friends will mind and your family will be upset, everyone will be fine. Do what's right for you and make it your day to remember.