Do you need bridesmaids for an elopement ceremony?

The beauty of a small elopement ceremony is that you get to make it whatever you want it to be! An elopement ceremony, by definition, is a small, intimate ceremony with only you and your fiance, or a handful of your closest friends and family. While larger weddings can quickly become overwhelming with extending family and friends, vendors, location, catering and tight timeframes and scheduling needs, an elopement ceremony means you're in control and things can be as traditional or laid back as you'd like - and this includes the use of bridesmaids or a wedding party.

Depending on which state you live in, you'll potentially need one-two people in addition to your wedding officiant to serve as witnesses to your ceremony. These witnesses will sign your marriage license, helping make your marriage official! Some states require these witnesses to be over the age of eighteen, while some states say they should be over the age of twelve, and able to understand the document they're signing. So, make sure your officiant understands what is required of your state, and that you have the appropriate witnesses available the day of your wedding (if applicable.)

You can ask these witnesses to dress up, or dress down, you can have them wear coordinating bridesmaid and groomsmen outfits, or wear whatever's comfortable. You can have them stand next to you as you receive your marriage vows to one another, or have them stand back, there to witness the event, but not be a part of your ceremony.

As you'll see, the benefits of an elopement ceremony is that there are no "rules."

So, do you need bridesmaids for an elopement ceremony? No, but you might need a witness or two - and it's up to you if you'd like to call them your bridesmaid.