How to Include Family in your Elopement
The best part about Eloping is you get to decide if you want to include friends and family or not. The choice is all yours and maybe you’re choosing to include them but you need some help on how to include them! I am here to help guide you on what to do.
When deciding to Elope with friends or family there are a few things you should consider:
Will everyone invited be as excited and on board for your vision?
Do you want them to hear your vows or would you prefer to do it privately?
Do you want to invite someone who may take over control of your day and vision that will shift focus away from you both?
Can everyone you want there be able to attend? Where will they stay? etc
Do you think inviting the specific people will lead to you feeling like you have to invite more or others?
Eloping doesn’t mean excluding your loved ones! Many couples choose elopements for the intimacy, adventure, and personal experience they offer, but that doesn’t mean you can’t include family in meaningful ways. Whether you want to involve them in the planning process, invite them to your ceremony, or celebrate with them afterward, here are some thoughtful ideas on how to include family in your elopement.
How to Include your Family BEFORE the Elopement
Host a Pre-Elopement Celebration:
Just because you’re eloping doesn’t mean you can’t have a send-off! A pre-elopement dinner, brunch, or gathering with close family can help them feel included in your journey.
Involve Them in the Planning Process:
Ask for their input on certain aspects of your elopement, like picking out attire, choosing florals, or incorporating family traditions into your day.
Have a ‘First Look’ with Parents or Siblings:
If your elopement is in Banff or another scenic location, consider having a first look with your parents or siblings before heading to your ceremony spot.
Read Letters or Watch Video Messages:
Have your family write heartfelt letters or record video messages for you to read or watch on the morning of your elopement. This adds a personal and emotional touch to your day.
Carry a Family Heirloom:
Incorporate something sentimental, like a locket with a loved one’s photo, a piece of lace from a family wedding dress, or a special piece of jewelry.
helping you get ready:
Perhaps you don’t want your friends or family around for your ceremony. Having them help you get ready for your day is an amazing way for them to still be apart of your adventure but to also keep the rest of the day more private and intimate.
How to Include your Family DURING the Elopement
Invite a Few Guests:
Many elopements aren’t completely private! If your dream elopement allows, invite your closest family members to witness your vows in an intimate setting
Have a Virtual Ceremony:
If your family can’t physically be there, consider livestreaming your ceremony or video calling them so they can be a part of your special moment
Include a Special Reading or Speech:
Ask a parent or sibling to write a heartfelt note, poem, or blessing to be read during your ceremony.
Plan a Group Adventure:
If you’re eloping in Banff, you can turn it into a mini family adventure! Plan a short hike, a scenic picnic, helicopter or boat ride with your loved ones before or after the ceremony.
Have a Family Unity Ritual:
Incorporate a symbolic moment, like a handfasting ceremony where each family member ties a ribbon, or a candle-lighting ritual where they share their blessings.
invite them for dinner:
You can include them when you’re finishing your adventurous day by meeting for dinner. You could make a reservation at your favourite restaurant, hire a personal chef or have a cook out! This allows you to celebrate with them all and to share your exciting memories that were just created.
How to Include your Family AFTER Your Elopement
Host a Post-Elopement Celebration:
Throw a small reception, whether it’s an intimate dinner, backyard party, or weekend getaway, to celebrate with family and friends.
Share Your Wedding Video or Photos:
Send a wedding highlight video or a personalized photo album to your loved ones so they can relive the magic of your day.
Plan a Special Family Dinner:
Once you’re back home, plan a nice dinner with your family to share your experience, photos, and memories from your elopement.
Recreate a Special Moment
If you’re having a post-elopement gathering, consider doing a first dance, cutting a cake together, or having a toast to celebrate with family.
Take a Family Trip Together
Turn your elopement into a reason to go on a family vacation! Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a planned trip to your elopement destination, this can be a great way to include everyone in the celebration.
How to Include Family in Your Banff Elopement
If you’re planning a Banff elopement, there are unique ways to make it special for your family. You can invite them for a sunrise ceremony at Lake Louise, have a private family dinner at a cozy mountain lodge, or plan a picnic-style celebration with breathtaking views. Banff offers endless opportunities for an intimate yet family-inclusive elopement experience.
Eloping is about making your wedding day truly yours, and including family in ways that feel right for you will only enhance the experience. Whether you involve them in planning, invite them to witness your vows, or celebrate with them after, there are countless ways to make them feel a part of your journey.
Are you ready to plan an adventure elopement that balances intimacy and family connection? Let’s make it happen!
