Say “I do” to being a fool in love

Getting hitched on April Fools’ Day is now no joke thanks to a novel elopement idea just launched in Geelong.

Lovestruck couples looking for fuss-free nuptials can spend a modest $1100 to find themselves saying “I do” as part of a sweet half-hour package that includes an intimate ceremony, all the legal paperwork, cocktails, baos and professional photography.

Paper Bear Photography and Annie The Celebrant have teamed up to create the concept which will take place on Friday, April 1, at popular Geelong bar, Frankie.

Christian Miran from Paper Bear Photography said he believed it was the first elopement event of its kind to be held in Geelong.

He said many couples were turning away from traditional weddings in favour of something more boutique and their “Fools In Love” package provided a perfect solution.

“I see couples stressed about the pressure to have a big wedding or to include things in their wedding that they don’t even really want or like,” he said.

“An elopement is a chance to design your day so that it’s truly only about the two of you.

“You can still have a party later to celebrate with family and friends, but the burden of wedding traditions is much less once you have had your own private ceremony together.”

Christian said he wanted to come up with something fun and unique that was more meaningful than “a quickie at the registry”.

He said the response had been immediate, with one couple booking their Fools In Love wedding within a few days of the idea being launched online.

Annie, aka Annie The Celebrant, agreed that the wedding landscape had changed dramatically since the start of the pandemic, resulting in a growing trend towards elopements and micro weddings.

“It’s incredible to see the love shine through at an elopement,” she said.

“The vibe is so relaxed and fun – there’s no stress from weeks and months of intense wedding planning, much less worry about costs and no need for the couple to spend their wedding day playing host.

“It’s such an intimate and chilled experience.”

Two guests can attend the elopement as witnesses or the friendly Frankie bar staff will happily step in to sign on the dotted line if needed.

Fools in Love ceremonies are being held on the hour between 12pm and 7pm on Friday, April 1, 2022, with limited spots available.

To find out more or book your Fools in Love union, contact [email protected]. Bookings close on February 28.