Great Elopements Throughout History

Elopements have always been a part of love stories—sometimes rebellious, sometimes romantic, and always a little thrilling. While big weddings come and go in style, elopements remain timeless. From secret royal unions to modern-day escapes, here are some of history’s most famous elopements and what they tell us about love, adventure, and doing things your own way.

1. Elizabeth Taylor & Richard Burton (1964)

Hollywood’s most passionate couple eloped in Montreal, away from the paparazzi and chaos. After meeting on the set of Cleopatra, they couldn’t resist their chemistry, despite already being married to other people at the time. Their love story was intense, glamorous, and full of drama—fitting for one of Hollywood’s greatest romances.

2. Mary Shelley & Percy Bysshe Shelley (1816)

At just 16 (I know dude, but like “it was a different time” or whatever), Mary Godwin and the poet Percy Shelley fled to France, scandalizing literary circles and defying her family’s expectations. Their elopement was an act of rebellion that set the stage for one of the most famous novels of all time: Frankenstein.

3. Frida Kahlo & Diego Rivera (1929 & 1940)

Frida and Diego married twice, first in a small, quiet ceremony that her parents disapproved of and later after a brief separation. Their relationship was unconventional, but their love for each other remained at the center of their world.

4. Paul Newman & Joanne Woodward (1958)

Paul and Joanne’s love story was built on deep respect and devotion. They eloped in Las Vegas, far from Hollywood’s glitz, and spent the next 50 years proving that a simple wedding can be the start of something legendary.

5. Mila Kunis & Ashton Kutcher (2015)

Mila and Ashton took elopement to a new level of secrecy. They married in a quiet, ultra-private ceremony, keeping their wedding out of the public eye. The best part? It was exactly what they wanted.