Eloping used to be a term reserved for couples who wanted to tie the knot in secret or away from their families. However, in recent years, elope with family has become a popular trend among couples who want to share their special day with their loved ones, but also want the intimacy and privacy that comes with an elopement.

Eloping with family can be a wonderful way to celebrate your wedding day with those who are closest to you. It allows you to have the best of both worlds – the romantic, intimate setting of an elopement and the presence of your family and friends.

One way to incorporate family into your elopement is to have a small, intimate ceremony with just your immediate family members. This can include parents, siblings, and grandparents. You can then have a larger reception or celebration at a later date to include extended family and friends.

Another option is to have a destination elopement and invite your family members to join you at the location. This allows everyone to enjoy a vacation while also celebrating your wedding. This can be a great option for families who may not get to spend a lot of time together due to distance or busy schedules.

When eloping with family, it’s important to communicate your plans and expectations clearly with everyone involved. You’ll want to make sure that everyone is on board with your decision to elope and that they understand the intimate nature of the ceremony.

Finally, consider hiring a photographer to capture the special moments of your elopement with family. These photos will be cherished for years to come and will allow you to share your special day with those who couldn’t be there in person.

Here are some ways you can include your loved ones in your elopement:

1. Have a small ceremony with immediate family members: Invite your parents, siblings, and grandparents to witness your exchange of vows.
2. Write letters to your family members: Before your elopement, write heartfelt letters to your loved ones expressing your love and gratitude.
3. Have a video call during the ceremony: Set up a video call so your family can watch the ceremony in real-time.
4. Record a video message for your family: Film a message to your family members that can be played during the ceremony.
5. Have a reception when you return: Plan a reception or celebration when you return home to include your extended family and friends.
6. Ask family members to contribute to the ceremony: Ask a family member to read a special poem or scripture during the ceremony.
7. Have family members write a message on a wedding card: Ask family members to write a message on a special card that can be read during the ceremony.
8. Have a family member perform the ceremony: Ask a family member who is ordained to perform the ceremony.
9. Include family traditions: Incorporate a family tradition into your elopement, such as a special dish or a family heirloom.
10. Wear a family heirloom: Wear a piece of jewelry or clothing that has been passed down through generations.
11. Include family photos: Display family photos at the ceremony site to honor your family.
12. Have a family member as your witness: Ask a family member to sign as a witness on your marriage license.
13. Invite family members to take part in the planning process: Involve your family members in the planning process so they can feel included and invested in your special day.

In conclusion, eloping doesn’t mean you have to exclude your family from your special day. With some planning and creativity, you can include your loved ones in your elopement in meaningful ways.