The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Cosy Autumn Elopement in South Wales

Introduction:

Elopements, and intimate weddings, have always been a thing. But, why have they suddenly become such a trend?

Throughout our few years surviving the COVID outbreak, intimate weddings definitely became a thing; simply down to this being the only way couples could marry! Elopements, though? They always seemed like such an American idea. It didn’t feel like it was a social norm for us here in the UK, let alone in South Wales!

There are so many positives for having an elopement wedding in South Wales; the intimacy it allows you, the obvious decrease in budget (though, this doesn’t have to be the case always), freedom & flexibility, and, arguably the most important of the lot, the adventure!

These days, thanks to instagram & Pinterest, when you picture an elopement wedding in South Wales, I think it’s safe to say that you picture it being at Cardiff Registry Office, and then these gorgeous editorial photographs of the newly-weds posing against the pillars of Cardiff Museum, and the like. It’s usually a warm, summery affair, with the greens poking out from the various parks surrounding (Which, I will admit, has it’s bloody benefits!!!).

However, what about the charm of having an autumnal wedding, or elopement, in South Wales.. somewhere away from the cityscapes of Cardiff, Swansea & Newport.

Choosing the Perfect Location:

When you start thinking about weddings, it feels like you immediately need to think about a venue, but with the freedom of eloping, that’s not necessarily the case.

In reality, you can actually start thinking about your favourite places to go, just as a couple! Which often means that the location chosen will mean that much more to you both already.

Some of my absolute favourite locations for Elopements in South Wales would be; the Brecon Beacons, or somewhere along the Coastal Cliffs of the Gower or Pembrokeshire.

We take for granted the varied landscapes of South Wales so often, that we overlook places right on our doorstep. Fan y Big is a gorgeous mountain peak, overlooking Pen y Fan, and if you’re a particularly adventurous pair of souls- this could work incredibly as a spot for a gorgeous elopement in South Wales.

I actually just got booked for a gorgeous coastal elopement down at Worm’s Head Bay in the summer of next year (2025), and I am so insanely excited for it. But, it just goes to show, that those places you know and love, can really be used for these special moments!

Creating a Cosy Vibe:

Think of what makes an intimate setting; twinkly lights, fireplaces or fire pits, and warm autumnal colours. It could be such a vibe!

The Photography:

You could embrace the season entirely, and have a twilight wedding, fully immersing yourselves in the night time with candles surrounding you as the sun goes down. Or, you could do it earlier in the day, to really allow those autumn leaves to show their colours for you.

My warm editing style would really help bring this alive.

And, I’m just spitballing here, but, think of the natural moments that could occur. Saying your vows as the wind is blowing your hair in your faces, and you both laugh at what a mess it all is. But you don’t care, because you’re doing this completely your way.

Practical Considerations:

I know, wind In faces isn’t everybody’s cup of tea, I get that. You really do have to think about how you’d handle that unpredictable autumn weather. I mean, we are in Wales after all.

Another thing you’d really have to consider is how much shorter the days will be at that time of year. So, you may need to run a tight schedule. But, whatever happens, i’m always happy to go with the flow!

Conclusion:

Eloping in autumn gives couples a chance to experience the magic of South Wales in a whole new way. The breathtaking landscapes, coupled with cosy, intimate settings, create a unique and memorable atmosphere for your wedding day.

With the flexibility to choose meaningful locations and embrace the natural beauty of the season, an autumnal elopement can feel both adventurous and deeply personal.

Just remember to plan for the weather, shorter daylight hours, and enjoy the spontaneity that comes with creating your own unique love story.