When planning a wedding, one of the first big decisions you’ll face is:
Should we elope or have a traditional wedding?

Here in Melbourne, we’ve seen couples choose both — from intimate elopements in the Dandenong Ranges to grand celebrations in the heart of the city. There’s no right or wrong answer, but understanding the differences can help you choose what truly fits you.

Let’s explore the pros and cons of each, and help you decide which style suits your love story.

What Is an Elopement?

In the past, “eloping” meant secretly running away to get married.
Today, it’s about choosing intimacy over tradition — a smaller, more personal celebration, often with just the two of you or a handful of loved ones.

Melbourne offers incredible backdrops for elopements, like Fitzroy Gardens, Brighton Beach, or even a quick escape to Daylesford or the Great Ocean Road.

What Is a Traditional Wedding?

A traditional wedding is a larger event, often including family, friends, a ceremony, reception, speeches, first dances and everything in between.

Melbourne is home to countless stunning wedding venues, from historic mansions to modern industrial spaces, perfect for couples dreaming of a full-day celebration.

Elopement in Melbourne: Pros & Cons

✅ Pros:

More intimate and personal
Lower costs (no huge venue or catering bills)
Less stress and planning
Beautiful elopement locations across Melbourne and Victoria
Flexibility in choosing the time, place and pace

❌ Cons:

Might miss the presence of family and friends
Some loved ones may feel left out
Less opportunity for a big celebration or reception

Traditional Wedding in Melbourne: Pros & Cons

✅ Pros:

Celebrate with all your loved ones in one place
Full-day experience with lots of memories
Speeches, dances and traditions that feel meaningful
More photo/video moments and storytelling opportunities

❌ Cons:

Can be expensive, especially with larger guest lists
Requires more planning and coordination
Can feel overwhelming or less personal for some couples

How Photography & Videography Fit Into Both

Whether you're planning a city elopement in Melbourne or a big traditional wedding at a Yarra Valley venue, professional photo and video make all the difference.

At Honey Weddings, we’ve filmed both elopements and full weddings — and in both cases, couples always tell us:

“We’re so glad we captured the moments. It goes by so fast.”

With elopements, we focus on raw emotion, nature and connection.
With traditional weddings, we build a full narrative — from bridal prep to the last dance

Which One Is Right for You?

Here are some quick questions to help guide your choice:

Do you thrive in big crowds or prefer private moments?
Is budget a concern or are you ready to go all in?
Are you planning something spontaneous or structured?
Do you want to involve your entire community or just keep it between you two?

There’s no “better” option — just the one that feels right.

Planning a Wedding or Elopement in Melbourne?

Whether you're keeping it simple or going all out, we’d love to help capture your story.

Honey Weddings specialises in photo and video services across Melbourne and Victoria, with a natural, documentary approach that adapts to your style — big or small.

👉 Ready to talk? Contact us here or explore our portfolio to see real weddings and elopements we’ve captured.

Elopement vs Traditional Wedding: What’s Best for You in Melbourne?