Creative ideas for involving loved ones

Worried your family will feel left out if you elope?
Here’s how to include them in meaningful, creative ways without compromising the intimacy of your day 💛

Eloping doesn’t mean your loved ones can’t be part of the experience. In fact, there are so many ways to bring them into your celebration, even from afar:

💬 1. Read letters or “speeches” from your family + friends.
Ask your loved ones to write something for you to read during your ceremony. It’s emotional, grounding, and makes them feel part of the moment.

🎧 2. Play a voice memo or song from your kids or family.
A message like “I love you, I can’t wait for you to marry my mom, good luck!” from your child or a meaningful song recorded by someone close is such a powerful way to make the elopement so much more emotional.

📽️ 3. Host a celebration at home afterward.
Share your photos, video and stories with family over dinner or a party. Let them see where you went, what you did and how happy you were. Seeing you genuinely happy on your elopement day can offer your loved ones a sense of peace. Even if they were initially hurt or unsure about your decision to elope, watching your joy, connection and confidence in choosing this path can help ease their emotions and show them it was the right choice for you.

🎀 4. Bring something sentimental with you.
A mini photo in a frame tied to your bouquet, a handkerchief from grandma, heirloom jewelry, or a note tucked into your backpack. Make sure your photographer won’t let these details go unnoticed!

🎉 5. Let your friends plan a challenge or game.
Some couples get a “10 things you must do in Italy” list from their friends—with silly, sweet, or romantic tasks to complete during their trip. It’s fun, keeps loved ones involved, and adds playful surprises to your adventure.

Your elopement is about you two—but that doesn’t mean your people can’t be part of the journey in their own unique way.

Send this to a friend who’d definitely make you a hilarious elopement challenge list. 😄