It used to be that eloping was considered scandalous – a desperate attempt by kids whose parents wouldn't let them get married. However, that's not the case today. Many couples are choosing to elope, mostly to avoid the extensive planning and expense of a wedding party for 150 of their closest family and friends. Here are three other reasons why couples choose to elope:

• Many couples are now getting married in their 30's or 40's, and aren't looking to plan the fairytale wedding that younger couples often are. The rate of remarriage after divorce is high, so someone who already had a lavish wedding the first time around may want to keep a second wedding low key.

• Unfortunately, for some people, eloping still has to do with family disapproval. If parents don't agree with the marriage due to racial, cultural or age differences, or simply don't like their new daughter or son-in-law, a couple may choose to avoid the hassle and elope.

• Eloping is very romantic – it's just about you and your future wife. You can relax and concentrate on the intimacy of getting married, without having to rush from the church to the reception hall to greet guests. Many resorts now offer elopement vacation packages, so you could head to the Caribbean or to a country bed and breakfast and let them take care of the details.

When a couple gets back from a vacation or even their local city hall, they can always throw a dinner party or informal event for their loved ones. Planning a party after eloping is much easier than planning a big wedding and reception. It's also nice for family members and friends to celebrate with you, and it helps to appease any drama. While most of your family and friends will be happy that you eloped, some may be disappointed - the aunt who is distraught that she won't see her niece in a wedding gown, or a grandmother who wanted to show off her new son-in-law, for example. So, if you have an after-elopement party, everyone will still feel included in your wedding.

Whether you choose to have an extravagant black tie wedding or elope with your fiancee, the wedding day should be about you, and your commitment to one another. Plan the wedding of your dreams, and don't worry about what anyone else thinks – it's your day!