How to Include Family in Your Elopement
One of the biggest myths about eloping?
That it means leaving your family behind.
But today’s elopements are flexible, intentional, and customizable—and that includes the people you love most. Whether you want your family physically present or involved from afar, you can design an experience that honors your relationships without sacrificing the intimacy of your day.
Here are meaningful ways to include family in your adventure elopement, inspired by real couples I’ve photographed through Vérité Visuals.
Option 1: Invite a Small Group to Join You
If the location allows it, having a few family members at the ceremony can be beautiful and low-stress. Consider:
Parents or siblings only
A small gathering for the vows, followed by alone time for portraits
A pre- or post-ceremony breakfast together
Many couples choose a hybrid experience—family for the emotional vows, then a private adventure afterward.
Option 2: Have a Pre-Elopement Gathering
If you want the adventure ceremony to be private, spend meaningful time with family beforehand:
A farewell dinner
A send-off brunch
A small at-home celebration
This lets everyone feel included in the journey, without being present for the intimate ceremony.
Option 3: Involve Family From Afar
If your location, budget, or personal preferences don’t allow guests, you can still bring family into your day through thoughtful touches:
Ask Loved Ones to Write Letters
These can be:
Read during the ceremony
Saved for after your vows
Opened during a celebratory meal
It’s an emotional and grounding experience for both you and them.
Video Messages
Collect short videos from family members to watch together after the ceremony—perfect for couples who want connection without in-person guests.
Live Streaming
Some couples choose to livestream their ceremony from the mountain, forest, or beach. I can help you choose locations with strong cell service if this is important to you.
Option 4: Incorporate Sentimental Items
Symbolic details can carry family energy into your elopement:
Wearing heirloom jewelry
Carrying a family photo
Using fabric from a loved one’s dress or suit
Bringing a small keepsake from home
Even subtle touches make your ceremony deeply personal.
Option 5: Celebrate With Family Afterward
Whether it’s the same day or weeks later, a post-elopement party is a beautiful way to involve your loved ones:
A relaxed backyard party
A catered dinner
A reception with speeches and dancing
A slideshow of your elopement photos
Best of both worlds? Absolutely.
Final Thoughts
Eloping gives you the freedom to design a day fully aligned with your values and your relationship. Whether your family is right beside you or cheering you on from afar, there are endless ways to honor those connections. What matters most is that your elopement reflects your love story.
Thinking about eloping in the North Cascades? Let’s chat. I’ll help you dream it, plan it, and capture it beautifully.