Ideas to Include Family And Friends When You Elope

Eloping means creating a wedding day that’s uniquely yours, without the stress of entertaining and managing a large group. But choosing to elope doesn’t mean you have to forego sharing your special moment with loved ones. Whether you’re planning a “just us” experience or including a few close friends and family, this article will guide you through ways to keep your wider circle feeling involved and cherished. From crafting personalized keepsakes to organizing virtual watch parties, discover how to extend the intimacy and joy of your elopement to everyone you love.

To invite guests or not?

Deciding whether to invite guests to your elopement comes with its own set of considerations. On one hand, having guests can enhance the celebratory feel, offering support and shared joy on your special day. However, it may also introduce logistical challenges and potentially dilute the intimate atmosphere that makes elopements so unique.

On the other hand, opting for a guest-free elopement focuses the day solely on you and each other, ensuring a deeply personal and meaningful experience. A ‘Just Us” wedding also opens up all kinds of opportunities for amazing locations for your ceremony because you don’t have to worry about where your guests will stand or sit.

Have a private ceremony

Here’s an idea that some of the couples I’ve worked with have planned: They invited 10-20 guests to their wedding day, but chose to have a private ceremony with just a couple (or no) witnesses present. This allowed them to have the truly intimate ceremony they wanted, but still hang out with and celebrate with their closest friends and family on their wedding day.

Keeping it small

If you are going to invite some guests, choosing a smaller guest list (I recommend 15 people or less) for your elopement enhances the intimacy and authenticity of your celebration. It’s a way to experience your special day without the stress of a big event, keeping the spotlight on your shared love and the moments that matter most.

A smaller guest (or no guest list) list not only means a more relaxing and stress-free day but also ensures that every aspect of your elopement is a true reflection of you as a couple, allowing you to connect, celebrate, and cherish the moments in the most personal and unforgettable way.

IDEAS FOR INCLUDING LOVED ONES who aren’t invited to YOUR Intimate wedding

Let’s dive into some thoughtful gestures and ideas that can help include those not physically present at your elopement. Whether through live streaming your ceremony or crafting personalized keepsakes, we’ll explore how to keep your friends and family close to your heart, making them feel valued and part of your celebration, no matter where they are.

Include Them in the planning process:

Even though you’re eloping, that doesn’t mean you can’t involve your family in the planning process! If you have parents or siblings who are supportive of your decision, involve them as much as possible. Ask them for advice on hairstyles, flowers, etc. Ask them to share about their own wedding experience, their favorite wedding memory, and their biggest regrets. They’ll be more than happy to be involved, and it will make them feel important even though they’re not physically present on the big day.

Get creative with your announcements:

Announcing your elopement plans beforehand can actually be really fun (and will definitely get everyone talking). You could send out “save the date” cards or even announce it on social media using creative hashtags or photos. Be sure to include a note about how eloping was the best decision for you as a couple. Ask them to celebrate with you in spirit on your special day! And most importantly – don’t forget to tell everyone how much you love them and appreciate their support, even if they couldn’t be there in person!

Personal Messages:

Invite your loved ones to write heartfelt letters or record video messages to be opened or played on your wedding day. This personal touch brings the voices and sentiments of your closest friends and family into your celebration, creating a deeply emotional and memorable moment. It’s a beautiful way to feel surrounded by love and support, even in their physical absence.

Pre-Elopement Gathering:

Organize a laid-back get-together, such as a backyard BBQ or a dinner at your favorite restaurant, with your close family and friends before you head off to elope. It’s a wonderful opportunity to share your plans, express your love, and enjoy quality time with those important to you. This gathering can serve as a warm send-off and a way to include everyone in the joyous occasion.

Virtual Celebration:

Embrace technology by live streaming your elopement ceremony, allowing friends and family to witness your vows in real-time, no matter where they are in the world. This can be as simple as setting up a smartphone on a tripod or using a professional streaming service. After the ceremony, take some time to interact with your virtual guests, making them feel truly part of your special day.

Symbolic Keepsakes:

Ask loved ones for small keepsakes or symbols that hold special meaning to include in your day. Whether it’s a piece of jewelry that’s been passed down through generations, a note tucked into your attire, or a small charm attached to your bouquet, these items carry the spirit and love of your family and friends, making them part of your journey in a tangible way.

Interactive Website:

Create a dedicated website for your elopement where you can share your story, photos, and maybe even a blog or video diary of your adventure. Encourage guests to participate by leaving messages, advice, or even voting on aspects of your day, like choosing a song for a dance. It’s a great way to keep everyone updated and involved in the buildup to your special day and beyond.

Customized Vows:

Incorporate insights, advice, or funny anecdotes shared by your loved ones into your vows. This not only personalizes your commitment but also honors those who have shaped your relationship. Mentioning family and friends in your vows reinforces their significance in your life, bridging the distance between you.

DIY Contributions:

For friends and family who have talents in crafting, music, or art, invite them to contribute something they’ve made to your day. Whether it’s a handmade item for your ceremony, a playlist curated by a music-loving friend, or a piece of art created just for you, these contributions add a personalized touch that’s uniquely reflective of your relationships.

Celebration Box:

Curate a special package to send to your loved ones before the elopement, including treats, a mini bottle of champagne, and perhaps a personalized note or a keepsake. Include details on how they can join the virtual celebration. This gesture helps your family and friends feel connected to your special moment and ready to celebrate with you, even from afar.

Post-Elopement Reception:

Plan a casual, fun reception or a gathering after you return from your elopement. This event doesn’t have to be elaborate; it’s simply about sharing the joy of your marriage with your wider circle. It offers the perfect occasion for storytelling, dancing, and reliving the elopement highlights with those who weren’t there. You can even show off your wedding photos or have a slideshow presentation!

Wedding Photo Album:

After the elopement, compile a beautiful photo book that captures the essence of your day, including snippets from your adventure, personal messages, and photos. Make it available online or create physical copies for your loved ones. This album is not just a thank-you gift; it’s a way to share your journey and the beauty of your intimate celebration with everyone who holds a place in your hearts.

Eloping without guests doesn’t mean you have to exclude all of your loved ones from the festivities! There are plenty of ways to include them in the process, both before and after the big day itself. If you’re nervous about breaking the news of your plans to friends and family, here’s a resource I put together that might help.

So go ahead and start planning! By following these tips, you’ll be sure to make everyone feel included on your big day.