Are you dreaming of a wedding that’s as unique as your love story? Look no further than Virginia Beach! This stunning coastal paradise is beckoning couples to ditch the traditional wedding hustle and embrace the magic of elopement. Imagine saying “I do” with the soft sound of waves crashing in the background and a golden sunset painting the sky just for you. Let’s take a closer look into all the steps you’ll need to follow as we cover how to elope in Virginia Beach!
Why you should elope in Virginia Beach
With access to talented local vendors and plenty of romantic activities to enjoy afterward, Virginia Beach is the perfect destination for creating unforgettable memories together! Here are a few key reasons why couples choose to elope right here on the coast:
The ocean is the perfect backdrop
Picture this: miles of pristine sandy beaches, the Atlantic Ocean shimmering in the sunlight, and a breathtaking sunset that seems to set the stage just for you. Virginia Beach is a photographer’s dream and a romantic’s paradise! Whether you want a quiet corner of the beach or a vibrant local park, this location offers a gorgeous backdrop that will make your vows unforgettable. Your photos? They’ll be pure magic!
Elopements are intimate and personal
Eloping means you can throw out the stress and focus entirely on each other. It’s all about creating a moment that truly reflects YOUR love. Virginia Beach allows you to choose a setting that resonates with your journey together—whether it’s a spot you’ve cherished for years or a beautiful new place that feels just right. Together, you can craft a ceremony that feels authentic and deeply personal.
Virginia Beach has incredible local vendors
The cherry on top? This charming coastal city is brimming with talented local vendors who specialize in elopements! From charming officiants who will make your ceremony heartfelt to photographers who capture every joyful moment, your elopement will be in expert hands. Many local businesses even offer fabulous elopement packages to make planning a breeze! You can focus on the love while professionals take care of the details.
Endless costal activities and experiences
Once you’ve tied the knot, the fun doesn’t stop there! Virginia Beach is the perfect playground for newlyweds. Spend your days basking in the sun, enjoying delicious seafood at waterfront restaurants, or exploring cozy local shops. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try kayaking or paddleboarding, or take a romantic sunset cruise? The possibilities are endless, and every moment spent together will be a cherished memory!
With its serene beaches and warm, welcoming vibe, it’s the perfect place to celebrate the beginning of your forever. So, if you’re ready to learn more, let’s take a step-by-step approach on how to elope in Virginia Beach!
How to elope in Virginia Beach
- Research and Choose a Date
Start by selecting a date that works for you and consider the weather and local events that might affect your plans. - Obtain a Marriage License
Visit the Virginia Beach Circuit Court Clerk’s office to apply for a marriage license. Both partners must be present, and you’ll need to provide identification and pay a fee. After the ceremony, the officiant must return the signed marriage license to the circuit court where it was issued to officially record the marriage. - Select a Ceremony Location
Choose a location that reflects your vision for the day. This could be a beach, park, or a private venue. Many locations may require a permit, so check in advance. - Hire an Officiant
You’ll need an officiant to perform the ceremony. Virginia allows various officiants, including religious leaders, judges, and even friends or family who can be ordained. - Plan Your Celebration
Decide if you want a small celebration after the ceremony. Consider dining at a local restaurant, hiring a photographer, or planning a fun activity to commemorate the day. - Define Your Style – Consider the type of atmosphere you want, such as beachy, rustic, or elegant, to narrow down your options.
- Set a Budget – Determine how much you can spend on the venue, including rental fees, catering, and any additional costs.
- Guest Capacity – Make sure the venue can comfortably accommodate your expected number of guests, keeping in mind any social distancing guidelines if applicable.
- Visit in Person – Schedule tours of potential venues to get a feel for the space, lighting, and overall vibe.
- Check Availability – Ensure the venue is available on your desired date, and consider alternative dates in case your first choice is booked.
- Read Reviews – Look for feedback from previous couples who have used the venue to gauge their experiences.
Checklist for couples who want to elope in Virginia Beach
I’ll be honest, using a wedding planning checklist is a total lifesaver for keeping everything organized and making sure you don’t forget any important details. It helps you tackle the planning process in bite-sized pieces, so it all feels way more manageable. Plus, having a checklist takes a lot of the stress off your shoulders, letting you focus on enjoying the journey instead of ticking boxes off your “how to elope in Virginia Beach” planner. Check out this cool printable guide to keep you organized while prepping for the most romantic day of your life!
Recommended vendors for a Virginia Beach elopement
Florists
Virginia Floral Design & Events | @virginiafloraldesign on instagram
Fairfield Flowers | @fairfieldflowers on instagram
Wedding Attire
Studio I Do Bridals | @studioidobridals on instagram
Here and Now Bridal | @hereandnowbridal on instagram
Philip Michael Fashion for Men | @philipmichaelfashion on instagram
Dapper Luq Custom Suit & tailoring | @dapperluq on instagram
Elopement venues and locations
- The Founders Inn and Spa – Featuring lovely gardens and a charming indoor space, this venue offers a romantic setting for ceremonies and receptions.
- Ocean View Beach Park – A picturesque outdoor location with sandy beaches and stunning sunsets, ideal for a beach wedding.
- First Landing State Park – Offers scenic views of nature, sandy beaches, and wooded areas, perfect for intimate ceremonies amidst the beauty of the outdoors.
- The Norfolk Botanical Garden – Provides stunning gardens and peaceful landscapes, ideal for a romantic outdoor wedding surrounded by flowers.
- The Oceanfront Boardwalk – A vibrant backdrop with ocean views and the sound of waves, suitable for a casual beach wedding.
- Marina Shores – A waterfront venue with lovely views of the marina, offering a serene setting for small outdoor weddings.
In conclusion, if you’re thinking about how to elope in Virginia Beach, let me tell you—it can be such a fun and joyful experience that ultimately brings you closer together! With its stunning coastal scenery and a variety of charming venues, this destination offers the ideal backdrop for your intimate ceremony. By focusing on what really matters—your connection—you can create a memorable day that celebrates your unique relationship!
Don’t forget to check out my recent post on my top 3 wedding venues in Virginia Beach, and peruse other helpful publications like Brides magazine, Southern Bride Magazine. Are you ready to book your very own Virginia Beach elopement photographer? Head on over to my Wedding & Elopement page to learn more about my process and inquire about your date!
Hugs,
Shannon
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