Can You Have a Wedding With Just Two People?

The simple answer is: yes, absolutely! You can have a wedding with just two people. However, the intricacies lie in understanding the different types of ceremonies and the legal requirements involved. While a legally binding marriage requires specific elements, a commitment ceremony or an elopement can be a beautiful and meaningful way for a couple to celebrate their love with only each other present. This article will delve into the nuances of having a two-person wedding, explore alternative options, and answer some frequently asked questions to help you plan your perfect, intimate celebration.

The Appeal of a Two-Person Wedding

More and more couples are opting for a more intimate wedding experience. The appeal is clear: focus on the couple. With no guests to manage, a two-person wedding allows for complete freedom and flexibility. There are no seating charts to fuss over, no long guest lists to appease, and no external pressures on what your big day “should” look like. Instead, you can concentrate on creating a truly personal and meaningful moment for the two of you.

Elopements vs. Commitment Ceremonies

It’s important to distinguish between an elopement and a commitment ceremony, as they have different legal implications.

• Elopements: Traditionally, an elopement refers to a marriage conducted in a sudden and secretive fashion, often with a small number of guests or none at all. While modern elopements can be planned, they often involve fewer guests and a focus on simplicity and intimacy. An elopement can be a legally binding marriage, but this is dependent on the local laws of where you are getting married.

• Commitment Ceremonies: A commitment ceremony is a celebration of love and dedication, but it does not carry any legal weight. It is a symbolic gesture where couples promise themselves to each other in a meaningful way. This is a fantastic option if you are not able to legally marry in your chosen location or if you would prefer not to be legally married at this point in your relationship.

Legal Requirements for Marriage

If you wish to legally marry with just the two of you, it is essential to research the specific marriage license requirements of your chosen location. Some states, and indeed some countries, require the presence of an officiant or witnesses to legally register the marriage. Therefore, you may need to have a third party present during the ceremony for it to be legally valid. However, if you are opting for a commitment ceremony, there is no legal requirement and the two of you can celebrate in whichever way you like!

Romantic Places for Your Two-Person Wedding

The beauty of a two-person wedding is its adaptability. You can choose any location that is special to you, without needing to accommodate a larger group. Here are a few ideas:

• Natural Settings: Consider a mountain meadow, a quiet beach, a secluded forest, or a dramatic desert landscape for a breathtaking backdrop.
• Boutique Hotels: A stylish hotel can offer elegance and intimacy. Look for options like The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, The Foundry Hotel in North Carolina, or The Conrad in Washington D.C., which are mentioned in the reference text.
• Unique Destinations: Explore destinations like Lake Tahoe, the British Virgin Islands, or the Scottish Highlands for unforgettable scenery.

The Advantages of a Two-Person Wedding

Beyond intimacy, a two-person wedding also boasts other advantages:

• Cost Savings: Without the expense of catering, venues, and large guest lists, you can significantly reduce wedding costs.
• Reduced Stress: Planning a wedding for two is undeniably less stressful than coordinating a large event.
• Flexibility: You can choose any date, any time, and any location, unconstrained by the needs of guests.
• Authenticity: A two-person wedding is a deeply authentic way to celebrate your relationship, focusing on your personal love story.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further assist you in planning your two-person wedding:

1. What is a micro wedding?

A micro wedding is a smaller version of a traditional wedding, with 30 or fewer guests. It’s an intimate celebration that usually lasts for a few hours, combining the ceremony with drinks and light bites.

2. How many guests are typically at a small wedding?

A small wedding usually involves 50 people or less. This differs from micro weddings and significantly smaller elopements and two person weddings.

3. Can a wedding have two officiants?

Yes, it is possible to have co-officiants at your wedding ceremony.

4. What is a minimony wedding?

A minimony is a smaller, more intimate wedding ceremony that takes place on the planned wedding date, often when a larger wedding cannot proceed.

5. What is the average cost of a wedding?

According to a 2022 study, the average wedding in the UK costs around £18,400. However, a two person wedding or elopement can significantly reduce this cost.

6. What do you call a wedding with no guests?

A wedding with no guests is often called an elopement. This does not necessarily mean that you can not be legally married, it is simply the name given to a wedding with no or very few guests.

7. How can I have a small wedding without offending anyone?

To avoid offense when having a small wedding, consider limiting plus-ones, inviting only immediate family, or sticking to a consistent criteria when deciding your guest list.

8. What does a micro wedding look like?

A micro wedding is a ceremony and/or reception with less than 50 total guests. Couples might combine an elopement with a reception.

9. What states allow you to marry two people?

All states allow two people to legally marry, provided they meet the specific state’s requirements for marriage.

10. What is the easiest state to get married in?

Colorado, Idaho, Wyoming, and Utah are considered to be among the easiest states to get married in, due to their relatively streamlined legal processes.

11. Where is the cheapest place to elope?

Some of the cheaper locations for elopements include Lake Tahoe, British Virgin Islands, Bali, Scotland, and the Oregon Forrest, as well as areas in Montana and Colorado Mountains.

12. What is a secret marriage?

A secret marriage is a marriage conducted without public knowledge, often done to protect the couple or their family from embarrassment. This type of marriage can also be referred to as a stealth wedding or an elopement.

13. How to get married quietly?

To get married quietly, you may consider eloping. This involves getting married without the knowledge of many friends and family.

14. What are the disadvantages of a small wedding?

One disadvantage of a small wedding is the difficulty in creating the guest list, as you cannot invite everyone you might wish to. Additionally, it may lack the party atmosphere of a larger event.

15. Is it cheaper to elope or have a wedding?

Generally, it is cheaper to elope than to have a traditional wedding. Elopements tend to cost less due to reduced expenses on venues, catering and large guest lists.

Conclusion

A wedding with just two people is not only possible but can be an incredibly meaningful and personalized experience. Whether you choose a legally binding elopement or a symbolic commitment ceremony, the focus remains on the connection and love shared between the couple. By understanding the various options and planning carefully, you can create a wedding that is as unique and special as your relationship. Embrace the opportunity to celebrate your love in your own way, and make it an unforgettable start to your lifelong journey together.