Maybe you want to avoid the disagreements about the guest list, or you don't see the point in spending a year's salary on a one-day event. Or you've always dreamed of getting married in a location that's not as traditional and maybe a little rustic. Or you've just never been much for a crowd. Whatever the reason, eloping or choosing a smaller, more intimate ceremony and celebration makes sense for many couples. Before you run off to Hocking Hills to wed in a wooded grove or on the deck of a log cabin, check out these dos and don'ts first.

Do: Realize that an elopement still involves planning.

While a Hocking Hills elopement is pared down, you still have to figure out a date, a location, and apply for a marriage license.  You may also have to apply for a wedding permit (if marrying in the Hocking Hills State Park), organize travel arrangements and activities, book lodging, invite guests, buy new outfits and accessories, secure an officiant, hire a photographer, schedule hair and makeup, coordinate food and sweet treats, and order a few flowers.

Do: Make the first "We did it!" call to your parents.

If your plans don't include your parents, they shouldn't find out that you got married from Facebook. A thoughtful in-person phone call is a great way to break the news. Be kind and considerate of the fact that they may be disappointed they weren't there to bear witness or be a part of the post-vows celebration.

Don't: Forget to take photos.

One thing we don't recommend skimping on? Your wedding photos.  It's important to capture the spirit of the day and those you shared it with.  Ask professional photographers if they offer hourly rates or elopement packages.  If time or budgetary constraints prevent you from hiring a photographer, at the very least bring along your own camera or smartphone. Ask your witness to capture a few sweet shots as you say "I do."

Do: Keep the guest list minuscule.

If you're inviting some loved ones to your elopement and not sticking with the tradition of surprise, limit the number to a handful of guests: parents, siblings, and one best friend each. If you invite a crowd, it may begin to stray from your original intent of keeping things small and intimate.

Don't: Ignore adding custom touches.

Think about things like crafting your own vows or marrying on a day that's meaningful to you (anniversary of your first date?) rather than some random Tuesday.  Consider adding special accessories to your wedding attire like matching sunglasses, handcrafted jewelry or cufflinks.  We also recommend a personalized ring box.

Do: Visit the Hocking Hills Wedding Show on March 3rd.

Our Hocking Hills Wedding Show is designed to help make these decisions easy.  Stop by on March 3rd to meet our vendors and find everything you need to make your Hocking Hills elopement perfect.