Here is an urban myth: eloping means my family cannot be included AT ALL in my day. 

There are many ways to celebrate your marriage without having a wedding. This post will go over 5 meaningful ways you can include your family in your elopement. 

1. Have A Party!

Just because you’re eloping, doesn’t mean you cannot have a party (or two!). You can have an engagement party, a bridal shower, a special brunch or cocktail hour, or even a party the day before (or after) you elope. 

People want to celebrate you, especially YOUR people. You get to decide how and when they do that, but inviting them to celebrate with you is a way where all can feel included. 

2. Write letters to your loved ones. 

What better way than for someone you love to feel involved and included while still upholding your personal boundaries than a letter? These letters can be for them to read the morning of your elopement, or before or after. It is up to you. But writing some special words about this person and how much you care about them can go a lot farther than you think. And not only for them, but for you too. 

3. Something Old, New, Borrowed, Blue 

Who doesn’t love a good tradition, even when you might be breaking tradition and eloping? It doesn’t have to be OR it can be AND. 

If you know there are some special family heirlooms or items that you could have, wear, or hold during your elopement, you might consider including these as part of your day. It can symbolize the people you love being there with you in spirit through these items, while allowing them to feel like they are there with you. 

4. Take them with you when you shop for your elopement attire and design details! 

Just because they won’t be with you on the day, doesn’t mean they can’t be present with you as you prepare for the day. Take them with you to get your dress, suit, suspenders, and whatever else you plan on wearing that day! Allow them to help you pick out flowers and smaller design items. And I will say, it is important that you include them in your process WHILE still maintaining your personal boundaries. Include them as little or as much as you want. It is up to you! 

5. Hire an elopement photographer who will capture your day with intention!

Not to shamelessly self-plug here, but this is where I can come in. Hiring a photographer who knows just how important it is that these pictures reflect your day and the love that you and your partner have for one another is crucial. This is especially true when you are eloping and will be sharing these photographs to your loved ones as a way for them to share in your day with you.  

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If you have been trying to figure out how to include your family in your elopement, I hope this blog post was helpful and inspiring, with some ideas on just how to do that. Remember, that those who love you and want to cheer you on will be happy to do just that within your boundaries. 

If you have any questions, or simply want to talk, get in touch and I’d love to give you the complete elopement day of your dreams.