The idea of eloping has undergone a beautiful transformation. It’s no longer about running away in secret, but about making a deeply intentional choice to celebrate your love in a way that is authentically you. For many couples, a big, traditional wedding simply doesn’t feel right. They want to strip away the pressure and the performance, and focus on the most important part: the two of them.
And where better to do that than in London? This city, with its timeless romance and endless hidden gems, is the perfect backdrop for a truly personal elopement. As a London-based celebrant, I’ve had the privilege of crafting intimate ceremonies in some of the city’s most magical spots. Here’s my guide to planning your unforgettable London elopement.
You can also have a little look at my website to find out more about the process and what exactly a celebrant is!
Step 1: Handle the Legalities of an elopement ceremony (The Easy Part!)
It’s a common misconception that a celebrant can legally marry you in England. The legal paperwork is handled separately, and the great news is that it’s incredibly straightforward. This two-part approach gives you the ultimate freedom to design a ceremony that is entirely personal.
Firstly, you need to sort out the paperwork. This involves booking a simple, no-frills appointment at a registrar office. This is a quick, legal-only ceremony that takes about 15 minutes and can cost as little as £50. It’s often referred to as “the statutory ceremony” and requires just you, your two witnesses, and the registrar. You can do this at any registrar office in England and Wales, and it can be done on a different day from your celebrant-led ceremony.
Now you can focus on the fun part; the ceremony itself. This is where I come in! Your celebrant-led ceremony is the real, emotional heart of your wedding day. It’s where you’ll exchange your meaningful vows, share your personal love story, and create a truly special memory. This can take place anywhere you choose, with no restrictions on location, time of day, or content.
Step 2: Choose Your Perfect location for your elopement in London
This is the most exciting part! London offers a spectacular array of settings for an intimate elopement. Forget the grand hotel ballrooms and think about what feels right for you as a couple.
Historic & Grand:
- The Asylum Chapel: This breathtaking Grade II listed building in Peckham is a celebrant’s dream. Its beautiful, crumbling walls and ethereal light make for a stunningly romantic backdrop.
- St Dunstan-in-the-East: A ruined church garden nestled in the City of London, it feels like a secret world away from the urban bustle.
- The Barbican Conservatory: For a tropical, exotic feel in the heart of the city, this hidden gem is hard to beat.
Urban & Iconic:
- A rooftop with a view: Imagine saying “I do” with The Shard, the London Eye, or the city skyline as your witness.
- A quiet spot in a Royal Park: A bench in Greenwich Park with views of the city, or a secluded garden in Regent’s Park can be incredibly romantic.
- A riverside location: The banks of the Thames offer iconic views, from Tower Bridge to the South Bank.
Quirky & Personal:
- Your favourite pub garden: A celebratory pint and a personal ceremony—what could be more authentically London?
- A private room in a unique restaurant: A celebratory meal with a handful of guests, preceded by a beautiful, bespoke ceremony.
- A gallery or museum: Some of London’s world-class venues offer private hire spaces that are truly one-of-a-kind.
Step 3: Choose a celebrant to write and curate a Ceremony That Tells Your Story
With a celebrant, there are no rules. Your ceremony should be a reflection of your unique relationship. We can weave in elements that are special to you as a couple.
- Personal Vows: I’ll guide you through the process of writing vows that are from the heart.
- Unique Rituals: Want to incorporate a handfasting ceremony, a ring warming, or a sand ceremony? We can do it!
- Personal Readings: Whether it’s a favourite poem, song lyrics, or a passage from a book, we can include readings that resonate with your journey.
- Meaningful Music: Choose the music that has been the soundtrack to your love story, from the moment you walk down the “aisle” to your first kiss as a married couple.
Step 4: Build Your Dream Team of wedding suppliers for your elopement
Even with an elopement, you’ll want to remember every moment. Hiring a small, dedicated team of suppliers who specialize in intimate weddings can make all the difference.
- Elopement Photographer: An experienced photographer who knows London will capture the magic of your day, from the quiet moments to the iconic city backdrops.
- Florist: A local florist can create a beautiful bouquet and buttonhole that complement your chosen location.
- Hair & Makeup Artist: Treat yourselves to a professional stylist for a relaxed and pampered start to your day.
An elopement in London is not about having less—it’s about having more of what truly matters. More intimacy, more personality, and more focus on the incredible love story you share. It’s an adventure that is entirely and wonderfully yours.
Tríona xx