Nani and Alexei captured the essence of what an elopement is really about; the couple. With no frilly details to distract from what really mattered, their ceremony was simple and authentic.
“I couldn’t control my emotions; I cried during the ceremony and Alexei comforted me. He always makes me feel very loved,” explained Nani.
Kudos to photographer Kristen Booth for capturing their special day so beautifully!
Nani, 42 & Alexei, 37
Ceremony Location: Malibu, California
Wedding Date: March 1, 2016
Number of Guests: 0
Wedding Cost: $6,457 ( Photographer $1,500; Make-up / hair $250; Dress from eBay $400; Hugo Boss Suit $800; Head piece $190; Officiant $500; Both wedding bands $2,500; Bride’s shoes $87; Groom’s shoes $150; Groom’s shirt $80)
Wedding Reception Location: None
Why did you have an intimate wedding?
For us, marriage is between two people; we wanted to be able to focus on just each other. In addition, we are not extroverts, so an elopement suited us better than a traditional wedding. I don’t like being the center of attention, and I wouldn’t have been able to avoid that if I had a big wedding. LOL. =) We also would rather save money to start our lives together, than spend it on a big wedding.
What are some the challenges that you faced planning an intimate wedding?
Only minor challenges, but nothing compared to a wedding that would have included guests.
Was it difficult to pare down the guest list?
No.
Did you have any ‘issues’ with the small guest list from friends and family?
No.
What were the highlights of the ceremony?
I couldn’t control my emotions; I cried during the ceremony and Alexei comforted me. He always makes me feel very loved.
What were the highlights of the reception?
We didn’t have a reception.
What was the best thing about having an intimate wedding?
We didn’t have to worry about anything else other than getting married to each other. I felt that I could pay all my attention to him and vice versa; there were no distraction.
What advice do you have for couples who are considering an intimate wedding?
Mention to the potential photographer that it’s an elopement/small wedding. Usually s/he will provide a better price than a traditional big wedding because it’s less stressful for everybody. The wedding dress may be one of the expensive items for the wedding, so one of the best places to get a good price on a pricey wedding dress is from eBay, Poshmark or Etsy. Many of the dresses on eBay are actually brand new.
Vendors:
Photographer: Kristen Booth
Make up & hair: Brittany Heim
Officiant: Elizabeth Oakes
Head piece: VirginiaGeigerJewels
Dress: BHLDN – Quillaree Floral Artwork Dress from eBay, bottom shortened/altered by America Freestyle Alterations
Shoes: Bloch London Womens Clara Ballet Flat, Buvard
Jewelry: Necklace, bracelet, earrings & anklet: personal jewelry
