How to Elope But Still Celebrate With Family and Friends
Really want to have an intimate elopement, but don’t want to leave your family and friends out of the celebration??
I totally get it. Elopements are getting more and more popular, especially in the Denver area, as they are incredibly intimate, can take away a ton of STRESS from wedding planning, and are generally much less expensive!
That being said, I’ve met a lot of couples who LOVE the idea of eloping but can’t imagine keeping their family and friends out of the entire celebration. If you are feeling this way, then here are a few ideas you can think about using to make sure that no one misses out - and you still get the elopement of your dreams!
Elope privately, then have a big reception later - not even the same day!
This option is GREAT, especially for people who have a TON of loved ones that they want to celebrate with while still getting to elope. It gives you the opportunity to still have that completely private day with your new spouse and celebrate together, but also a set date where everyone can expect to join as well. With this option as well, you can even stick to a less formal, less expensive reception style, as the “pressures” of a full-on wedding day will be not as high. Make this a FUN party - bring in your favorite foods and desserts and make sure your guests have something they can do - whether that’s a photo booth, games, dancing, or even renting out an ice skating rink for the day - think outside the box!
Host a small dinner with friends and family after you elope.
If you still want the privacy of an elopement but don’t need an elaborate, huge celebration afterwards, a small dinner the night after your elopement is a great idea! Chances are, you are going to be still feeling the thrill of just getting married, so carrying that straight into dinner with your loved ones will be so special. Again, with this option, you aren’t going to have to worry about paying for TONS of extra things - just make it a small celebration with the ones you love, and it will be more than enough. I would recommend keeping this option under 50 people - otherwise, finding space gets a little more difficult - and you’ll have more RSVP’s to keep up with.
Invite a SMALL amount of friends and family to your elopement.
One of my favorite ceremony types are those that are so simple and intimate, shared with only the closest of family and friends. If you want to have family and friends at your elopement, THEY ARE ALLOWED TO BE THERE! I still consider this an elopement, as the crazy amounts of planning and extras of a wedding day usually aren’t included, even though other people are there besides yourselves. Keep the number short to avoid any RSVP stresses and also create a much closer feel between everyone as they gather together to celebrate your marriage.
No one wedding or elopement looks the same for any bride - so even with these ideas, take them and make your elopement into something that totally expresses you and your relationship!