The Knot Worldwide acquires online elopement platform
A digital wedding products and services retailer is now serving the needs of couples who want to avoid the fuss.
The Knot Worldwide has acquired Simply Eloped, an online technology platform and wedding vendor network geared toward the needs of customers planning elopements and "microweddings" (small, intimate ceremonies) in the U.S. for an undisclosed sum.
Founded in 2016, Simply Eloped allows couples to purchase customized elopement and microwedding packages ranging from $450 to $5,500. The Simply Eloped intake, vendor management and booking platform is designed to deliver a streamlined, personalized purchase.
Simply Eloped then leverages its network of more than 750 wedding professionals to source and match with couples, delivering confirmed bookings to these vendors. Elopements typically have up to 15 guests, while microweddings can include up to 50 people, with services currently available in more than 30 destinations.
All Simply Eloped employees have joined The Knot Worldwide, including founder Janessa White. Simply Eloped will continue to function as an independent brand led by White, within The Knot Worldwide’s portfolio of leading brands.
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"We were excited when the Simply Eloped team proposed the idea of an acquisition to join our family of brands, as we have long admired the business,” said Tim Chi, CEO of The Knot Worldwide. "We strive to be the go-to platform for all couples, no matter their wedding size, style, budget or location. Today's microwedding and elopement couples are increasingly seeking to personalize their celebrations.
"We are combining forces with Simply Eloped to provide these couples the end-to-end support and talented vendor network they need to make their dreams a reality, while introducing new business opportunities for vendors," Chi said.
"Joining The Knot Worldwide marks an exciting new chapter for Simply Eloped," said Janessa White, director and GM of Simply Eloped. "For us, weddings are all about celebrating the unique love story of each couple, free from outside pressures. Whether it’s a quiet moment in the mountains or a lively celebration, our mission has always been to empower couples to embrace what feels right for them. With The Knot Worldwide’s support, we can now reach even more couples and offer our personalized approach to wedding planning on a larger scale. I'm confident that together with The Knot Worldwide, we'll continue to innovate and provide couples with unforgettable wedding experiences."
Based in Chevy Chase, Md., The Knot Worldwide has nearly 35 million users across 16 countries and operates a global vendor marketplace that connects more than 4 million couples per year with 850,000 local wedding professionals. The Knot also offers customers a suite of personalized websites, tools, invitations and registry services.