One big difference is the people. At a traditional wedding, you are likely to have 50-200 guests at your ceremony and 50-300 guests at your reception, while eloping usually is less than 20 people for both. If you would prefer a more intimate wedding experience, eloping might be for you! You don't even have to go far away to elope, but you certainly can. Many couples who elope often choose just to have it between themselves and not invite any guests at all. 

If having a larger wedding and inviting more guests is important to you, maybe a traditional wedding is the way to go. Traditional weddings allow you to invite all of your family members and friends. 

Another factor that comes into place is stress. Sometimes planning a traditional wedding is stressful. You have so many different decisions to make and so many little details to remember. Some couples choose to elope just to avoid some stress. Family drama can be another stress factor couples take into consideration when making the decision to elope or have a traditional wedding. 

This is not to say that a traditional wedding isn't worth it. Many couples have traditional weddings and have no regrets. It is all a personal choice. Everyone feels differently. 

• There are some other options couples choose! Some couples choose to Elope with family (you can do big or small) to a destination of their choice. This is a great option if you love the idea of a fun location but having all your favorite people is equally important. 
• Split the day. Start your day just the two of you. You can even do your ceremony with just the two of you. Then have all of your guests join you at your reception.
• Make it two days! You can spend the entire first day eloping and getting amazing photographs with your photographer/videographer team and the second day can be celebrating with your friends and family.
• Have an extra party. Many couples choose to elope solo and then come home and have a reception with family and friends. This gives you the best of both worlds!