Top 3 ways to Involve Your Family in Your Elopement


When it comes to elopements, many couples envision an intimate celebration filled with romance and adventure. However, involving your family in this special occasion can add an extra layer of love and joy. Sometimes it's not an easy decision to elope just the two of you, and couples decide to include their loved ones in some stages of their elopement day. In this blog, I will explore various creative ways to include your family in your elopement, ensuring that your celebration becomes a cherished memory for everyone involved.

Before your elopement, consider organizing a pre-wedding family gathering. This allows your loved ones to share in the excitement and build anticipation for the upcoming celebration. Plan a casual gathering at an Airbnb, a restaurant or in a park where you can reminisce about fond memories, share stories, and express your gratitude for their support.

elopement with a family
elopement with a family
elopement with a family
elopement with a family
elopement with a family
elopement with a family

Include Your Family in the Ceremony


Elopements are often associated with intimate and private ceremonies between the couple, but there is an increasing trend of including close family members in these special moments. Including family in an elopement ceremony adds a beautiful layer of love, support, and togetherness to the celebration. It allows for a more inclusive and meaningful experience, creating lasting memories for everyone involved. Keep in mind, most National and state parks and BLM land require special use permits for ceremonies, especially if you're planning to include over 10 people. You might also consider things like wheelchair accessibility, bathrooms accessibility and chair rental if you're planning on inviting your family.

When incorporating family members into an elopement ceremony, there are various ways to make them feel valued and involved. One option is to invite immediate family members, such as parents, siblings, or children, to witness the exchange of vows and rings. This small gathering creates an intimate atmosphere where everyone can share in the joy and emotions of the couple's commitment to one another. I'd be happy to help you with all the logistics and deciding on which locations suit your needs.

Intimate elopement with family in park city
Intimate elopement with family in park city

Family Photo Session Before or After Your Elopement


Schedule a dedicated family photo session either before or after your elopement ceremony. This allows you to capture beautiful moments with your loved ones and preserve them as treasured memories. A professional photographer can artfully capture the essence of your family bonds, ensuring that these photos become cherished heirlooms.

elopement with family
elopement with family
elopement with family
elopement with family
elopement with family
elopement with family
Intimate elopement with family in park city

Post-Elopement Celebration


Plan a post-elopement celebration to include your family in the joyous aftermath of your elopement. This can be:

  • a casual gathering,
  • a picnic in the park,
  • a dinner party, or even a small reception.
  • have a guest book where family can write meaningful notes for you to read later
  • have zoom call or recording of your ceremony to make them feel more included

It provides an opportunity for your family to offer their congratulations, share in your happiness, and toast to your new chapter as a married couple. Many of my eloping couples decide to involved a small group of family and friends in their ceremony and then meet them in a restaurant or at an airbnb for post-elopement celebration. Keep in mind Airbnb has a strict no party rules in place, so you'd have to make sure your gathering is very intimate and you have owner's approval,


Your elopement can be a truly memorable and inclusive experience by involving your family in various ways. From pre-wedding gatherings to post-elopement celebrations, each gesture will reinforce the bonds of love and create lasting memories. Remember, while an elopement may be an intimate affair, it doesn't mean your family can't play a meaningful role in your special day. Embrace these ideas and make your elopement a celebration that encompasses both your love for each other and your love for your family.

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