Should you elope with your children present?
Eloping with children transforms your wedding day into an intimate family experience. While it requires thoughtful planning, the result is a beautiful celebration you'll all treasure. Here's how to create a memorable family elopement.
Start by choosing a child-friendly location with space for kids to move freely. Beaches, gardens, or scenic spots with room to explore work well. Keep the terrain accessible – you want everyone comfortable and safe throughout the day.
The ceremony itself should be short and sweet like the Elopement Collective’s celebrants provide. Young children often struggle with lengthy formalities, so focus on the essential moments. You can always plan a more relaxed celebration later for extended vows or stories.
Practical preparation makes a huge difference. Pack snacks, water, and comfort items like favorite toys or blankets. These simple items can keep children content during ceremonies and waiting periods. Remember to stay flexible – kids will be kids, and sometimes the unplanned moments make the best memories.
Consider involving children in meaningful ways. They might hold flowers, present rings, or simply stand with you during vows. Even young ones can participate by holding a special family photo or memento. Having grandparents or a trusted babysitter present can help manage the children during key moments, allowing you to focus fully on your vows.
Time management is crucial. Build your schedule around children's best hours, whether that's morning or after naps. Keep the pace relaxed and include breaks – an over-scheduled day rarely goes smoothly. Most successful family elopements last just a few hours, keeping everyone engaged and happy.
Choose a photographer experienced with families who can capture both posed and candid moments. They'll understand that perfect poses aren't always possible and instead focus on natural, joyful interactions that tell your family's story. Ask us for best advice.
After the ceremony, keep celebrating simple. A private dinner or family picnic works beautifully. You might cut a small cake, share a toast, or enjoy a quiet sunset together. Some couples choose to continue their celebration after the children are asleep, savoring moments just for two.
In the days before and after, create lasting memories together. Make a family scrapbook with drawings, photos, and thoughts about the day. Add mementos like pressed flowers from the location or notes from each family member. These activities help children feel included while creating treasured keepsakes.
Remember, eloping with children brings its own kind of magic. By embracing flexibility and focusing on togetherness, you'll create a celebration that's uniquely yours. The day might not be perfect, but it will be perfectly meaningful for your family.