Elopements
Elopements are no longer synonymous with secret ceremonies and hasty vows. In recent years, a new trend has emerged, blending the intimacy of eloping with the inclusion of close family members.
Table Of Contents
- 1. Choose a Meaningful Location:
- 2. Create a Guest List:
- 3. Send Thoughtful Invitations:
- 4. Virtual Attendance:
- 5. Include Family Traditions:
- 6. Personalize the Ceremony:
- 7. Share Images Post-Elopement:
- 8. Intimate Reception:
- Best Venues for Elopement Ideas with Family
- 9. Create a Memory Book:
- 10. Plan a Future Celebration:
Planning an elopement with family can be a beautiful and meaningful way to celebrate love while maintaining an intimate atmosphere. In this guide, we’ll explore creative ideas and thoughtful tips to help you plan an elopement that not only captures the essence of your relationship but also includes those nearest and dearest to your hearts.
1. Choose a Meaningful Location:
Select a location that holds significance for both you and your family. Whether it’s the place where you first met, a family vacation spot, or a picturesque destination, a meaningful location can add a sentimental touch to your elopement.
2. Create a Guest List:
Compile a small guest list comprising immediate family members and a few close friends. Keeping the guest list limited ensures an intimate atmosphere and allows you to focus on sharing the moment with those who matter most.
Choosing who to invite to your elopement is a significant decision that involves striking a balance between maintaining intimacy and including those who hold special places in your hearts. Here’s a detailed guide on how to approach the guest list for your elopement:
How to Know Who to Invite
- Immediate Family:
- Parents: Your parents are often the first people you might want to include in your elopement. Their presence can add emotional support and significance to the occasion.
- Siblings: If you have siblings, consider inviting them to share in the joy of your elopement. Siblings often have a unique and close connection that can enhance the familial atmosphere.
- Closest Friends:
- Long-time Friends: Invite friends who have been a significant part of your lives and have witnessed the evolution of your relationship. These friends are likely to appreciate the personal nature of an elopement.
- Supportive Confidants: If you have friends who have supported you through thick and thin, consider including them. Their presence can add a layer of emotional depth to your elopement.
Reflect on Significance
- Reflective Questions: As you create your guest list, ask yourselves reflective questions. Consider the impact each person has had on your relationship, the memories you’ve shared, and the role they play in your lives.
- Shared Moments: If you have shared significant life moments with someone, whether joyful or challenging, they might be meaningful additions to your elopement.
Remember, the key to creating a meaningful elopement guest list is to prioritize those who have had a significant impact on your relationship and have been unwavering in their support. By carefully curating your guest list, you can ensure that your elopement is a deeply personal and intimate celebration of love.
Bonus Idea for an Elopement with Family:
Arrange for your family members to through local dried flowers as you walk back up the aisle like Morgan and Joe did (elopement video below).
3. Send Thoughtful Invitations:
Although the event is intimate, sending out invitations adds a touch of formality and excitement. Craft personalized invitations that reflect your relationship and the unique nature of your elopement. Consider including a heartfelt note explaining your decision to elope with family.
4. Virtual Attendance:
For family members who may not be able to physically attend, consider incorporating virtual elements. Set up a live stream or FaceTime call so that those who cannot be present physically can still witness or be a part of your special day.
5. Include Family Traditions:
Incorporate family traditions into your elopement ceremony to make it even more meaningful. This could be anything from exchanging family heirlooms or having a family member perform a special reading. Here are some more ideas:
- Tree Planting: Incorporate a tree-planting ceremony where you and your partner add soil from each of your childhood homes or family gardens to symbolize the growth of your new family tree.
- Wishing Stones: Provide small stones for family members to write well-wishes or blessings. These stones can be collected in a decorative container and kept as a cherished keepsake.
- Musical Performances: If you have musically inclined family members, invite them to perform a special song during the ceremony. This personal touch can elevate the emotional resonance of the event.
- Cultural Attire: Embrace your cultural roots by wearing traditional attire from your respective backgrounds. This could include garments, accessories, or even fabrics that represent your heritage.
- Wearing Family Jewelry: Incorporate family heirlooms into your attire. This could be a grandmother’s necklace, a mother’s veil, or cufflinks passed down through generations. Wearing these items connects your love story to the history of your family.
- Ancestral Toast: Include a toast using a traditional beverage from your cultural background or a family recipe. It’s a symbolic way to honor your ancestors and celebrate the blending of your families.
- Reading or Poem: Ask a family member to share a meaningful reading or poem that holds significance for your relationship. This can be a piece passed down through generations or a new creation inspired by your love story.
6. Personalize the Ceremony:
Craft a ceremony that reflects your unique story as a couple. Write your own vows, choose readings that resonate with you, or include symbolic rituals that hold personal significance. This will make the ceremony not only intimate but also deeply meaningful.
7. Share Images Post-Elopement:
Hire a photographer and videographer to capture the special moments. Having high-quality photographs will allow you to relive the day and share it with those who couldn’t be physically present.
8. Intimate Reception:
Host an intimate reception or dinner with your family after the ceremony. This can be as simple as a picnic, a small gathering at a local restaurant, or a cozy meal at home. It’s an opportunity to share a meal and create lasting memories with your closest loved ones.
Planning an intimate reception or dinner after the elopement ceremony allows you to celebrate with family in a relaxed and personal setting. Here are five detailed examples of how you can create a memorable post-elopement reception:
Picnic in the Park:
- Setting: Choose a scenic park or botanical garden for a relaxed and intimate picnic-style reception. Lay out cozy blankets, bring comfortable cushions, and set up a spread of your favorite foods.
- Catering: Opt for a picnic-style menu with finger foods, sandwiches, and refreshing salads. Include a selection of beverages, and consider having a small wedding cake or cupcakes for dessert.
- Entertainment: Bring along some acoustic music or create a playlist of your favorite songs. Encourage family members to bring games like bocce ball or frisbee for a fun and laid-back atmosphere.
Restaurant Gathering:
- Venue: Choose a favorite local restaurant with a private dining area or a cozy ambiance. This setting provides an intimate space for your family to gather, share a meal, and celebrate.
- Customized Menu: Work with the restaurant to create a personalized menu that reflects your favorite dishes or includes family recipes. Consider a family-style meal to encourage sharing and conversation.
- Speeches and Toasts: Reserve a moment for family members to share speeches or offer toasts, creating a heartfelt atmosphere that emphasizes the importance of family in your journey.
Backyard BBQ or Potluck:
- Host at Home: If you have a spacious backyard or a family member’s house, consider hosting a backyard BBQ or potluck-style reception. This informal setting encourages a sense of togetherness.
- Grilled Favorites: Arrange for a grill or barbecue station and serve grilled favorites like burgers, hot dogs, and kebabs. Create a casual and communal dining experience with picnic tables or blankets on the lawn.
- Potluck Contributions: Ask family members to contribute their signature dishes or family recipes. This not only adds a personal touch but also allows everyone to share in the joy of creating the meal together.
Wine Tasting at a Vineyard:
- Venue: Plan your post-elopement celebration at a local vineyard or winery with a private tasting area. The rustic charm of vineyards provides a romantic backdrop for your family gathering.
- Wine Pairing: Arrange for a wine tasting experience featuring local wines. Pair the wines with artisanal cheeses, fruits, and small bites for an elegant and enjoyable celebration.
- Personalized Labels: Create custom wine labels with your names and the date of your elopement. Gift each family member a bottle as a memento of the day.
Candlelit Dinner at Home:
- Intimate Setting: If you prefer a cozy and intimate atmosphere, host a candlelit dinner at home. Decorate with fairy lights, candles, and flowers to create a warm and inviting space.
- Private Chef: Hire a private chef to prepare a gourmet meal tailored to your preferences. This allows you to enjoy a restaurant-quality experience in the comfort of your own space.
- Family Recipe Book: Create a small recipe book featuring favorite dishes from both families. Share this with your family as a token of appreciation for their love and support.
Beach Bonfire Celebration:
- Beach Setting: If you’re near the coast, consider a beach bonfire celebration. Many beaches allow private bonfires, providing a picturesque backdrop for an evening gathering.
- Seafood Feast: Arrange for a seafood feast with grilled fish, shrimp, and other coastal delicacies. Include beach-friendly snacks like s’mores for a touch of nostalgia.
- Casual Attire: Encourage a relaxed dress code with beachy, casual attire. Provide blankets and beach chairs for a cozy and carefree celebration around the bonfire.
Each of these reception ideas offers a unique way to celebrate your elopement with family, catering to different preferences and styles. Whether you choose a casual picnic or an elegant dinner, the key is to create an atmosphere that allows your family to connect and share in the joy of your union.
Best Venues for Elopement Ideas with Family
Barrel + Beam
The Landmark Inn
Pinecrest Northwoods
9. Create a Memory Book:
Encourage family members to contribute to a memory book or scrapbook. Have them write messages, share anecdotes, and include well-wishes for your journey together. This personalized keepsake will be a cherished memento of your elopement with family. Also consider a video book that plays your elopement film, like one from Motion Books.
10. Plan a Future Celebration:
If you’ve eloped with only immediate family, consider planning a larger celebration for extended family and friends at a later date. This way, you can still share your joy with a broader circle while maintaining the intimate essence of your elopement.
Eloping with family can be a magical and heartwarming experience, creating memories that will last a lifetime. By thoughtfully incorporating your loved ones into the celebration, you can strike a beautiful balance between intimacy and inclusivity. From choosing a meaningful location to creating a personalized ceremony, these ideas aim to guide you in planning an elopement that reflects the unique beauty of your love story.