Figuring out how to tell your family you want to elope can be scary for a number of reasons. Straying away from that traditional wedding path and opting for an adventurous destination elopement that is more intimate can leave many couple’s families confused. The truth is though, eloping is an amazing option and one that can save you so much money as well as make the day more carefully catered to you as a couple and as individuals.
Eloping, although a great option and a path more traveled as of late, is still considered “taboo” to some. While you will not be able to garner everyone’s approval (ever) there are some steps you can take to ensure majority of your family has a clear understanding of why you’re wanting to elope and can offer support and excitement for you.
01. TELL THEM IN PERSON.
Texts, phone calls and even video chats can feel impersonal and cold. While you may not be able to tell everyone in person and distant relatives will learn over the phone, it’s important you tell as many people in person as you can. Since a piece of what you’re telling them is that they will not directly bear witness to your day, it’s important to be personal and very intentional in how you tell them. This way, they know it’s nothing personal, it’s just an exciting path you and your partner are deciding to take!
02. EXPLAIN WHY YOU WANT TO ELOPE.
Like I said before, elopements are an ah-mazing option for a plethora of reasons. Most family members may not be familiar or aware of a lot of those reasons. So, clearly explaining to them your list of pros can help them to understand why you chose this route.
03. KEEP YOUR FAMILY INVOLVED.
One of the biggest reasons any of them might feel upset in any capacity is due to the fact they won’t physically be there for you on your day. To help with this, keep them involved with the planning process, possibly have a live stream of the ceremony or have your mom on facetime. Just because they aren’t there physically doesn’t mean they have to miss it completely. And if you choose for the day to be exclusively intimate to you two, your photographer, officiant and witnesses, then your family will still have the photos taken by your photographer to swoon over.
04. CELEBRATE IT WITH THEM.
Before or after the big day, throw a party with your family! It doesn’t have to be to the magnitude that a wedding would, something small and simple will do just fine. This will help them feel more involved and a part of this special season of your lives.
05. REMEBER THAT IT’S YOUR DAY.
Through this process of figuring out how to tell your family you want to elope, remember that it is your wedding day. The decisions on how it should go should be made solely between you and your partner. Don’t let an upset family member push you in a direction that isn’t in line with what you are wanting. This is a once in a life time experience, do it how YOU want it done!
If you loved these tips, be sure to head over and check out the post on Leavenworth Elopement | Claire and Jon
