So what is an elopement, really?

Gone are the days when ‘eloping’ meant sneaking off in secret. These days, the meaning of elopement is more about stripping things back to what actually matters to you. It’s choosing connection over convention, presence over performance. Whether it’s just the two of you on a cliffside or a few close people in a forest, eloping is an intentional, intimate way to celebrate your love.

As an Aberdeen elopement photographer, I’ve had the honour of capturing these moments right in the heart of Aberdeenshire, in ethereal woodlands, rugged coastlines, and quiet places where you feel at ease.

How to Budget for a Wedding or Elopement Without Losing the Plot

Even if you’re planning a small wedding day, it can still feel like a lot. If you’re wondering how to budget in a way that actually feels right to you, try this:

Step 1: Make It Personal

Each of you write your top 3 wedding priorities. The things your heart really want when you imagine the day you marry the love of your life

Then compare your lists.

• If something overlaps—like “photography” or “an outdoor ceremony” make those a core focus.
• Your individual #1s? Those are keepers
• The rest might be optional or flexible.

Let that list be your compass when the pressure builds or opinions start flying.

Step 2: Choose Where to Invest

Your wedding is a story you’ll tell again and again.

• If you’re visual, make space in the budget for photography.
• If you’re foodies, don’t skimp on that. Have a buffet of favourites, hire a food truck!
• If dancing matters, get a great playlist or a musician who moves you.

It doesn’t have to be everything. Just the right things.

Step 3: DIY With Care

You can DIY some details, but don’t burn yourselves out.
Pick the bits that feel joyful, not overwhelming. Ask friends for help. Or keep it simple.

Thinking of Eloping Instead?

To elope in Aberdeen means you can have the landscape, the emotion, and the love, without the pressure of pleasing a crowd.

Elopements can be:

• A ceremony in the woods
• A handwritten vow exchange in a wildflower field
• A dreamy picnic after tying the knot

They’re more affordable (though still an investment), intimate, stylish, and just as rich with meaning.

As someone who loves storytelling with an artistic touch, I’d love to help you document something that’s all your own.

Explore my elopement & wedding packages
Or get in touch to chat about how you can elope near Aberdeen with wonder, style, and soul.