So now that you’re engaged, the big question is: should we elope and keep it intimate, or plan a big, full-blown wedding with all the fanfare? Here are thoughtful reasons to choose elopement and reasons to opt for a larger wedding celebration:

A full-blown wedding is an immersive celebration that transforms a couple’s commitment into an unforgettable event, complete with a carefully chosen venue, a meaningful ceremony led by an officiant, lush floral designs, a DJ/MC, a catered reception with toasts and a first dance, professional photography to capture every moment, and thoughtful details like signage, seating charts, and favors that reflect the couple’s personality. While the planning can be complex—coordinating vendors, a timeline, permits, and guest logistics, the result is a shared, celebratory experience that brings together family, and friends to witness vows, make memories, and mark the start of married life in style.

Large weddings tend to suit outgoing, extroverted personalities, while intimate elopements often appeal more to those who prefer quieter, low-key celebrations. Elopements in Hawaii are often done on our beautiful beaches or at our lush botanical gardens. The average cost of a large wedding at a venue is $34,000-$50,000. The average cost for a beach elopement on Oahu typically ranges from $2,000 to $15,000, with many couples spending between $6,000 and $10,000 when including travel and accommodation.