When a couple decides to elope, one of their biggest concerns is the feeling that they will exclude their family from the most important day of their life. However, elopements are different from what they used to be in the old days. In the past, couples eloped because their family didn’t approve of the partner. But since then, things have changed. The definition of modern elopement simply means you wish to have a small and intimate special day away from all the daily chaos. It’s a way to avoid the stress and expenses of traditional weddings. The question remaining is how to include your family in an elopement so you don’t offend anyone.
How to include your family in an elopement? Here are our top suggestions!
Invite them Along
The most obvious option is to bring them along for the adventure. However, some couple see their union as a sacred and intimate experience they wish to keep for themselves. If this is the case, you don’t have to include them in everything. Organise a small gathering dedicated to your loved ones to make them feel special and worthy. But, there is another option: have the ceremony surrounded by family and friends and then continue your union celebration alone.
Ask them to Participate in the Ceremony
How to include your family in an elopement? At times, this question seems like an impossible task, but the most simple and painless way is to invite them to be a witness at your wedding. The UK requires 2 witnesses, so why not ask one or both of them to be your family members?
We also love private household elopement, where a family member or friend officiates at the wedding ceremony. Isn’t it an incredible honour to be wedded by someone who has known you your whole life? Getting ordained is very easy, so prepare for a rather emotional celebration.
Have a Two-day Elopement
This is also a great option if you want some privacy with your partner. Plan a two-day getaway wedding with family, one day for the two of you and your intimate ceremony and the second for your dearest. It is the best of both worlds.
Also, you could organise two ceremonies. The first day will be dedicated to you and your partner to exchange private vows, and the following day will include your family and friends. This doesn’t mean you can’t exchange your vows for a second time.
Let them Share a Few Words
Intimate ceremonies are more about emotions than about attendance, so invite a family member to say a few words during the ceremony. This can be a blessing, a short toast, a bit of sage marriage advice, or simply a heartfelt expression of love.
This creates an unmatched level of intimacy, skipping the question of how to include your family in an elopement, and we can assure you there won’t be a dry eye. It will be very romantic and emotional for both you and your closest.
However, if you strongly decide to enjoy your getaway with only your partner beside you, there are other ways you can include your family.
Involve Them in the Planning Process
The simplest way to do it is to include your loved ones in the elopement activities through the planning process. They may not be physically present on the day, but why not ask for their ideas during the planning? Ask for opinions and advice on your attire, location, or ceremony script. Host a family dinner to discuss your plans and gather their thoughts. This is a great way to arrange a getaway wedding with family and make them feel connected to your special day right from the start.
Share the Moment Virtually
Sometimes, the problem isn’t how to include your family in an elopement but when. Considering we live in a digital era, you can livestream your ceremony in real-time. This thoughtful gesture allows your loved ones to witness your vows no matter where they are. It will surely mean a great deal to those who may not be able to travel or attend in person.
Incorporate Family Traditions
A beautiful way to honour your loved ones is to incorporate family traditions into your private household elopement. Wear a family heirloom, read a meaningful passage, or include a traditional blessing. Blending cultural or religious traditions into your intimate celebration is also a thoughtful sign.
Host a Post-Elopement Celebration
Hosting a family post-elopement celebration is the easiest and best option. You can have anything you want—a casual gathering, a formal reception, or even a simple dinner with those closest to you. Use the occasion to share your elopement photos, videos, and stories and allow your family to feel like they’re part of the experience.
Include Them in Your Vows
Family holds a significant place in our hearts, so why not mention them in your vows? It’s not the usual practice, but who says you can’t do it? It doesn’t have to be much. A simple gratitude for the role they’ve played in your relationship or acknowledging their influence and support in your life will do.
Create Special Keepsakes
If they cannot attend the family post-elopement celebration, include them by creating special keepsakes. Whether it’s a beautifully bound photo album or personalised gifts commemorating the day, they will surely appreciate it. Another suggestion is to write heartfelt letters to your closest family members. This is a great way to share your feelings about your elopement and your appreciation for their support.
Conclusion
There are tons of ways to include your loved ones in your elopement, so don’t have second thoughts about whether eloping is the right choice. Remember, eloping doesn’t mean that you exclude anyone if you don’t want to. It just means that you want to focus on yourself as a couple and do it your way.
Your elopement can be whatever you want it to be, so there is no wrong or right answer. It’s all about putting the emphasis on you as a couple.
If you’re organising your big day and wonder how to include your family in an elopement, contact us. We’d love to help you create a day that’s uniquely yours while celebrating the people who matter most.
