Eloping with Family: Tips for Planning a stress-free elopement

If you’re thinking of eloping with family, you’re in luck! Eloping with family can be the perfect way to get married, especially if you want a simple, intimate ceremony. With the right planning, it can be easy to have a stress-free wedding while still including your family. In this blog post, we will explore the best tips and tricks for eloping with family and making sure your special day is everything you dreamed of.

Can You Elope with Family?

An elopement can be as small or large as the couple wants it to be, and they can choose to include family members or close friends in their special day. Some couples may want to elope with just a handful of close family members or friends, while others may want to have a larger gathering of loved ones. The important thing is that you are comfortable with the size and scope of your elopement and that your desires are respected. It is also important to note that while elopements are often associated with being small and intimate affairs, the definition of an elopement is ultimately up to the couple getting married.

Consider Your Elopement Goals

Before you plan an elopement with your family, it’s important to think about why you want to do so. What are your elopement goals in terms of what you want out of the experience? It could be a romantic getaway from everyday life, a chance for all generations to come together, or something else entirely. Ask yourself what is most important for you and your partner, but also your family. Be sure to set realistic expectations about the level of involvement each person should have.

Talk to your family about your plans

If you are considering eloping with your family, it’s important to have an open and honest conversation with your parents. It’s understandable that they may feel a little overwhelmed or emotional about the idea of their child getting married without them being involved in the traditional wedding ceremony. That’s why it’s important to be clear about your goals and let them know why you are choosing to elope.

Explain the importance of the special day to you, and how much it would mean to have their support. This can help make the process easier for everyone involved. You could also offer to plan a special celebration or gathering afterwards, to thank your family for their understanding.

Share your plans in as much detail as possible so they feel included in the process. Discuss the size of the party, the location and any other aspects of your special day that involve them. Show them photos and videos of the place where you plan on eloping, so they can picture how beautiful it will be.

At the end of the day, what matters is that you and your significant other are happy and content with your decision. Be confident in your plans and keep a positive attitude throughout the conversation.

Pick a Family Friendly Elopement Location

When you start planning your elopement, it is important to consider your guests physical limitations – especially if you are getting married outdoors and are requiring guests to hike somewhere for your ceremony. Choose a location that is easy to access and make it very clear in your invitations what is expected of your guests. If the ceremony is standing room only, put that in your invitations. If it requires a considerable hike, include that as well.

Below are some ideas on family friendly locations in Boston

Boston Public Garden

Boston Public Library

Educate your Guests on Leave No Trace

If you are planning an outdoor elopement, it is very important to do your research and follow Leave No Trace principles. Remember, eloping is your choice and so your family might not know what that means for the impact of the environment so be sure to share with them what you are learning.

You can find more about Leave No Trace here and share the article with your family.

Share an elopement packing list for your family

Make a list for your guests of what they should and shouldn’t bring. You can include this in the invitation. Comfortable shoes, flashlight, water, etc. Anything that is out of the ordinary from a traditional wedding.

Sometimes family like to surprise the couple on their wedding day. Make sure to let your family know ahead of time of what is and isn’t allowed at the ceremony location. Explicitly tell your guests not to bring confetti, rice or flower petals etc. As these all have a negative impact on the environment.

Have a back-up plan

When planning an elopement with family, it’s important to have a backup plan in case of unexpected weather or other circumstances. This will ensure that you and your family are still able to enjoy the special day, even if it doesn’t go according to plan.

For example, if you plan to have an outdoor ceremony and there is a chance of bad weather, consider booking an indoor space nearby just in case. This will give you peace of mind knowing that you have an alternative plan that everyone can still be comfortable with.

It’s also important to consider the comfort of your family when creating a backup plan. For example, if you plan on having an intimate elopement with just a few people, consider having a separate area for them to hang out in before and after the ceremony in case of bad weather.

Having a backup plan for your elopement can help you and your family relax and enjoy the special day without worrying about unanticipated events. Take the time to come up with a plan that takes into consideration all of your needs and those of your family so that everyone can be happy and enjoy your special day!

Allow Time for Private Celebrations

After the ceremony, be sure to give yourselves, as well as your family, time for private celebrations. Consider doing a private first look or read your vows privately. You can also be sure to schedule your private couples session away from your family. That way you can still enjoy your partners company. This will give you more time to connect and celebrate without allowing any outside pressures or distractions

Eloping with family: A Summary

With an elopement, you have the flexibility to craft your dream wedding according to your wants and needs. No matter the size of the event – be it an intimate gathering or a larger celebration with loved ones – the focus always stays on the bride and groom. It’s the perfect way to bring their nearest and dearest together to honour and commemorate their love in a special, personalized manner. In essence, the beauty of eloping with family is the creation of a unique and memorable experience that speaks volumes about the couple.