Top 3 Best Spots to Elope in Illinois
Hey there, Love!
Something I love that I don’t talk about enough, is elopements! Elopements aren’t what people used to think they are. Although I love a cute little white chapel moment, going to Vegas to get hitched isn’t the only way to elope!
Your wedding doesn’t have to look like everyone else’s wedding. As much as I love the traditional, big weddings, tradition and celebration looks different for everyone, so weddings should be different for everyone as well. Eloping can be so intentionally intimate… It’s just you two (or maybe a few guests) celebrating the love and life you two have built together. You’re saying your vows in a location that feels personal, yet secret, like in that very moment you two are the only people on the planet.
No matter if you’re eloping due to shared love of adventure, not wanting something traditional or if it’s just because you two know that’s exactly what your hearts want to do for your wedding day, I got your back! Here are 3 of my favorite spots in Illinois for elopements…
- Garden of the Gods
If a breathtaking view is what you dream about for your elopement (other than your partner), Garden of the Gods is perfect for you two! I swear this location leaves me breathless every time, but it really is one of my go-to spots for elopements. I mean, how can it not be with a view like that? Although this is a beautiful elopement destination year round, the blossoming spring trees and the turning fall leaves would add the most stunning scenery to an already extra special day.
2. Downtown Courthouse
Nature isn’t for everyone and you can never go wrong with a courthouse elopement! Courthouse elopements used to get such a bad rep, but personally, I love them so much! Just you two, the courthouse and the city as your backdrop. This is also a great location choice if you wanted to celebrate your union with your loved ones in Downtown after you say “I do”! If you’re looking to elope at the Courthouse, you’re in luck because this location is a solid choice year round, however, I do love all the dreamy and snowy photo opportunities that winter brings.
3. Rosewood Beach
If you’re looking for some romance on the shoreline, Rosewood Beach is the elopement spot for you two. From the lush greenery, the soft crashing waves and the sun on the horizon, this is definitely a special spot (especially if you’ve been pinning sunrise or sunset photos onto your wedding pinterest boards). If you two are lovers of warm weather, this would be a perfect spot for a dreamy, Nicholas-Sparks-inspired, summer elopement… and who doesn’t want that?
Elopements may be smaller and more intimate than your average wedding, but don’t let that keep you two from getting married in the most authentic way possible for the both of you. From Illinois to beyond, I’m here to help with all things elopement planning. You two deserve to have the wedding day you both have dreamed about, however you want to say “I do”, I want to be there with you!
Make sure to follow my Instagram and Pinterest to see even more wedding and elopement inspiration, oh and don’t forget to say hi when you visit!
I’ll be thinking of you! Until next time friend,
Nichole x
