After users complete an online questionnaire that asks for their desired location and guest count, the website presents a selection of venues and booking packages. At a minimum, packages typically include an officiant, a photographer for one hour and the ability to invite up to 20 guests. For an additional cost, couples can invite more guests and purchase other services, including videography and on-site hair and makeup. Those who would rather book a venue on their own can still use the website to arrange vendors.
As part of any package, Simply Eloped also helps navigate the process of getting a marriage license in whatever state a couple chooses to wed. “Maneuvering through all the rules and regulations in a spot you’re unfamiliar with can be complicated,” Ms. White said.
The service has a human element, too, in the form of a point person who is assigned to each couple and introduces them to their vendors and officiant ahead of the wedding, to ensure the day unfolds as desired. “We organize and personalize anything that’s part of your ceremony,” she said.
Laurel Anderson, 35, a case manager at an environmental services company, and Matthew Herndon, 44, a senior I.T. director at Major League Fishing, used Simply Eloped to plan their nuptials, which took place June 9 at the Garden of the Gods park in Colorado Springs.
“It’s such an interesting way to do a wedding,” Ms. Anderson said of planning with Simply Eloped.
The couple, who live in Paducah, Ky., went with a basic package but added an extra hour of photography, for a total cost of roughly $2,000. Though their package allowed them to invite guests, they chose to marry before just their officiant and photographer.
“We wanted something that was just us,” Ms. Anderson said, “that was stress free.”
