PNW ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER

Whether it’s just the two of you or you’ll be inviting a handful of guests, it can be a challenge trying to figure out how to include loved ones in your elopement. I have couples ask me all the time how they can include their friends and family in their elopement day (even if they aren’t coming along). This is a super common issue, so I have put together this blog for any couples who need some ideas!

If You Invite Your Loved Ones, Here are Some Ways to Include Family in Your Elopement

Get Ready With Them

First, you can spend the morning getting ready with your family + friends to spend some quality time with them.

Have a Flower Girl/Ring Bearer

Even if you aren’t the traditional kind of couple, this is a sweet way to sprinkle in a little bit of tradition + honor the children you’re close to!

Have a Loved One Walk You Down the Aisle

It doesn’t have to be your father or even a father figure! You can have your sister, aunt, best friend, grandma, child, or even your dog walk you down the aisle. 

Select a Few People to Give a Speech at Dinner

Ask a few people to give a short speech at dinner! It can be a sweet part of the day for you and your guests.

Have a Family Member or Friend Play a Song

Have a musical friend or family member play/sing a song for your ceremony or first dance!

Ask a Loved One Be Your Officiant

If you want to have someone special officiate your elopement, they can get ordained easily online through Universal Life Church!

Have a Dance With a Family Member

Planning a special dance with a guest is a sweet way to create memories + honor a loved one.

Split Your Elopement Day Up

If you want a private ceremony but still want your friends and family with you on your day, you can split the day up! There are multiple ways to do this. You could only have a private ceremony, or you could do a second ceremony with your guests. There is no wrong way to do this, so do what feels right to you!

If You Decide to Elope Just the Two of You, Here are Ways That You Can Still Include Your Friends and Family.

Have an Engagement Party

If you aren’t inviting guests to your elopement, this is a great way to celebrate your (soon to be) marriage with loved ones.

Take Them Wedding Dress/Suit Shopping

Invite your family + friends to go shopping for your elopement attire. It’s helpful to have people you trust there so you can get a second opinion too!

Have Your Loved Ones Write Letters

 You can include your loved ones by reading letters from them on your special day. Gather some handwritten letters from your family and friends before you leave, and sit down to read them together after you officially get married!

Have Your Family + Friends Make You a Video

 An alternative to letters is a pre-made video! Have someone make a video of all your loved ones wishing you well/giving a toast to you. 

Incorporate Family Heirlooms

If you have an item from a family member that has been passed down, incorporate it on your big day! 

Video Chat or Livestream Your Ceremony

If you want your loved ones to experience your ceremony but they can’t be there in person, set up a livestream or video chat!

Have a Reception After the Elopement

Lastly, when you get back home, get everyone together and have a reception! This way you can still have a party to celebrate your new marriage, while also getting to elope privately.

I hope this helped spark some ideas for how to include your family in your elopement! If you need more elopement inspiration, check out my blog here!