Intimate Sunset Elopement in Downtown Las Vegas | Ashlyn Savannah Photo

Downtown Vegas Elopement | Little Vegas Wedding

Planned during the pandemic with just three weeks notice (and a lot of help from some fab Las Vegas wedding vendors) Cecilia and Billy pulled off the Las Vegas elopement of their dreams.

“From the beginning I wanted to get married outdoors. My initial plans were something in nature, but once we decided on Las Vegas it only felt right to make sure we captured the spirit of the city in our wedding,” says Cecilia. “Our goal was something intimate, enjoyable and carefree.”

Things weren’t completely smooth as planning progressed, but this couple adapted. For example, Cecilia hoped for a long dress, but decided something mid-length seemed more fitting of the location and photo tour they chose (smart bride!)

Both bride and groom carried small mementos of loved ones who couldn’t be there, including a rosary given to Cecilia by her brother, a charm with a photo of her father who passed away, and her mother’s bracelet as something borrowed. Billy wore a charm near his boutonniere with photos of his father and grandmother.

One of my favorite places to spy on downtown Las Vegas and east Fremont is the top of the parking garage at El Cortez Hotel. It’s got amazing views, a built in backdrop and is surprisingly quiet. So seeing a couple marry here at sunset was fantastic. With the appropriate, safe physical distance, Cecilia and Billy tied the knot. Initially it was quite private but by the end of our ceremony a small group had gathered and applauded us they officially became husband and wife. It was a sweet surprise for Billy, as he didn’t know there was a crowd since his back was to them…look for the moment you can see his joy in the photos!

During their downtown photo tour, they received free round of shots, shared pizza and beer at Evel Pie, and were serenaded by a man who emerged from White Castle and then cheered and congratulated by an entire intersection of people. “We felt so much love from complete strangers, which in a crazy Cecilia.

Later on, a woman even insisted on gifting the newlyweds a hundred dollar bill as a wedding gift. Cecilia says they will frame the bill with their wedding photos.

When it comes to advice for other couples, Cecilia and Billy says it is easy to get lost in what you think you should do and what you actually want to do.

“Be sure to trust your gut in this process and don’t worry about who you might offend or disappoint along the way. Regardless of what you decide to do, when it comes down to it the only thing that really matters about that day is the person standing across from you,” she says. “Prioritize your wants and needs and have fun! Emily and Las Vegas Elopements allowed us to do all of this, and we cannot imagine our wedding day any other way.”