As a Jackson Hole elopement photographer, I’m always a huge fan of an intimate elopement. However, sometimes family can be a little apprehensive of the idea. The world we live in has incredible opportunities and technologies that allow memories to be shared and captured in so many different ways. Throughout the years elopements have become incredibly popular and sharing your personal moments has become that much easier! Let’s talk about how to include family in your elopement.

Including Family in Your Elopement

Participate in Pre-Wedding Activities

Whether your parents want to throw you both an engagement party, or even a pre-wedding party, enjoy yourself! Your family may not be thrilled about your decision to forgo the traditional wedding day, and that’s okay. Allow them to plan an event, party, or shower in your honor. It’s a couple hours of time that will bring the people you love most together to celebrate your next step in life, and allows them to feel involved in your day. Even if they aren’t going to be there when you actually say, “I do!”

Livestream to Include Family in Your Elopement

Even if you and your partner decide to keep your elopement intimate, with few guests, consider a livestream! Family may not be there in person but they can watch your big day from home. Throughout the past couple of years we have all grown accustomed to using services like Zoom, FaceTime, and Skype to connect with our loved ones. Take advantage of the technology at your disposal and share your big day with loved ones.

“Rehearsal Dinner” Before with Family and Friends

Perhaps you want to keep the event minimal with simple your partner and yourself, host a dinner! Take your family and close friends to a rehearsal dinner before you leave for your elopement to celebrate your upcoming marriage. Maybe bring everyone back to the restaurant you had your first date at, let them into your relationship for a few minutes. Nevertheless, plan something special to include family in your elopement.

Incorporate Family Heirlooms into Wedding Attire

If you’re considering an intimate elopement, odds are a lot of family won’t be in attendance. Throughout your planning process think about different ways to incorporate family heirlooms into your intimate elopement. It’ll mean so much more to family and the two of you when you look back on your wedding day. Ask your mom, grandma, or other important family members if there are any special items you could borrow for your day. Not only will it allow them to feel involved in your day, but it’s a unique and special way to honor them.

Throw a “Watch Party” of Elopement Recording

Eloping in a Grand Teton National Park, or another national park without great service? Consider recording the ceremony and hosting a ‘watch party’ with friends and family when you get back! It’ll be a special way to bring family together to celebrate and relive your day alongside you. Serve some of your favorite foods and enjoy time including your family in your intimate elopement.

FaceTime Family Before Eloping

Lastly, include your family members in your intimate elopement by giving them a call the morning of! Let them be apart of you getting ready, or simply spend a few minutes sharing your excitement and nerves with them. It’ll be a special way to include family in your elopement, while still keeping your day intimate and between the two of you.

Nevertheless, no matter what you choose, eloping or not, including family is something you won’t regret. Get creative and think of ways to incorporate those that can’t be in attendance on your day. You only get married once, so make it special!

Ready to meet your Jackson Hole elopement photographer? Let’s chat!