The reasons to have a celebration of marriage party instead of a big wedding are mostly the same as the reasons for eloping in the first place. Many people elope because they want to be married soon but don't have enough money at the time for a big wedding. Later, when they have enough money or outside help to make it happen, they throw a celebration of marriage party. Other times, couples elope because they aren't ready for everyone to know about their relationship. When they are ready (or the secret is blown regardless) they host a big, after-wedding celebration. There are also the spontaneous, Vegas-style weddings. Since these are unplanned, spur-of-the-moment decisions, there is no time to invite guests and celebrate "properly." Lastly, some couples don't want all the pressure and busyness of entertaining guests to distract them from enjoying the true reason for the day—that is, each other.
