Sweet Kisses, Smiles & Laughter as Laura & Karissa Elope on Tybee Island

Laura & Karissa met just like you see in the movies…at the movies! Each saw the other and knew they were the one. Fast forward and, after two proposals, they began to plan the beach elopement they envisioned. They chose Tybee Island in Georgia as their destination to tie the knot. They enjoyed the sandy beach and ocean breeze as they exchanged vows. Afterward, historic Savannah awaited them as they celebrated with a wonderful meal and champagne. Find out why Laura & Karissa thought their Simply Eloped wedding was utterly perfect.

How did you meet? What was your first impression of one another?

Laura: We met at the town’s movie theater. Once I saw Karissa, I knew she was the one. 

Karissa: I saw Laura walking into the theater and thought she was the most beautiful woman I had ever seen and just had to talk to her. 

How did you propose or accept the proposal? 

Laura: I proposed in two ways. The first time we were lying in bed discussing our relationship, and it hit me. I had been carrying around Karissa’s engagement ring for some time and just couldn’t help myself. I felt so nervous but, after I gave my speech, the love of my life said YES!!!! The second proposal I got her nails done, bought her a dress, and took her to this lovely hidden place in our town. It’s like a fantasy getaway. I proposed to her on the pier while her step-sister took our pictures.

Karissa:  I was stunned, but it was a long time coming. I was so excited to be Laura’s fiance!

Where did you choose to elope, and why did you choose that destination?

Karissa+Laura: We chose Tybee Island because it’s close to home, and the pictures were just beautiful on the beach. We both have always wanted to get married on the beach. 

What attracted you to the venue you chose for your elopement? What were your favorite parts about eloping there? 

Karissa+Laura: Honestly, the water and the sand. We are both big fans of beach life, and there is no better getaway than Tybee Island !! 

How would you describe your elopement venue to someone who has never been there? 

Karissa+Laura: A fantasy. It’s so comfortable there. And very gay friendly. Everyone treated us with respect. And didn’t act like we were unnatural. We felt at peace. 

What did you do before the wedding? How did you get ready? How did you feel in the moments leading up to your elopement?

Karissa+Laura: We shopped for our wedding dresses, got our hair and nails done, had our wedding party with family and friends, and arranged all of the places we would stay and what we were going to do for our honeymoon.

How was your experience with Simply Eloped? 

Karissa+Laura: PERFECT!! COULDN’T ASK FOR A BETTER VENUE AND COMPANY. 

How did you choose to celebrate your elopement? 

Karissa+Laura: We went to Elizabeth on 37th and had great food and champagne to celebrate. With lots of sweet kisses, smiles, and laughter!

What words of encouragement do you have for those considering eloping?

Karissa+Laura: DO IT!!! BEST DECISION WE HAVE EVER MADE!! It’s more personal, and that’s how you want to start your lives together.

Officiation by: Melissa DeLynn
Photography by: Karen Norian
Hair & Makeup by: Emily Van Scoy
Flowers by: Jessica Malpas
Planning by: Simply Eloped
Venue: Tybee Island, Savannah, Georgia

Written by Janessa White

Janessa White is the co-founder of Simply Eloped and has helped thousands of couples plan elopements. As an expert in the field, she has been featured on Brides.com, Vox, and HuffPost. Janessa thinks elopements are the ultimate way to tie the knot.