Tips for Telling Friends and Family You Are Eloping
As an elopement photographer, I may be biased but I think eloping is beautiful. It’s incredibly brave to prioritize what YOU really want out of a wedding day (instead of what others may want for you). But with this choice comes the delicate task of telling friends and family you are eloping. If you are like most of the couples I work with, it’s a moment ripe with emotion, anticipation, and the hope for understanding.
As a wedding and portrait photographer with a love for intimate weddings, today I am sharing some tips for telling friends and family you are eloping. I hope that this post will help you navigate this conversation, ensuring your announcement is as joy-filled and smooth as the decision to unite your lives in such a beautifully intimate way.
Talk To Your Partner First
Before the world knows, ensure that you and your partner are on the same page. This unity is not just about the decision to elope but also about how you’ll share this news with your loved ones. The last thing you want is to have your parents or friends ask you a follow-up question and find out that you’re not on the same page, so have those conversations beforehand to ensure you can present a united front if your family and friends feel uneasy with your decision.
Be Honest When Expressing Your Feelings
When telling friends and family you are eloping, let your heart lead the conversation. Express the joy this decision brings you, the thoughtfulness behind it, and how it resonates with your shared dreams. By being completely honest and true to how your feeling, your loved ones are more likely to understand your perspective, even if the path is unfamiliar to them.
Addressing Common Concerns From Your Family
When telling friends and family you are eloping, be prepared to gently address their questions and worries. Do your best to not get defensive. They may wonder about traditions, or simply feel a pang of missing out. Listen with empathy, acknowledging their feelings while reaffirming the joy and thoughtfulness behind your decision.
Feeling uncertain about your decision to elope? While I don’t want you to feel pressured, a micro-wedding might be the perfect solution! It offers the charm of an intimate gathering while ensuring your nearest and dearest are there to celebrate your love. Read on, here for 7 reasons why you should consider a micro-wedding in New Jersey.
Tips for Including Them in the Celebration
Inclusivity can take many forms, even in an elopement. If you would like to include them, consider a small gathering before your departure, or a promise of sharing photos and stories post-ceremony. These gestures can make your loved ones feel part of your special day without compromising how you want to spend your wedding day.
Dealing With Negative Reactions
Despite your best efforts, you may have to deal with negative reactions when you tell your family or friends that you’re eloping. Remember, you don’t have to get them to approve of your decision to have an intimate wedding. Avoid the temptation to justify your choice.
Ultimately, a simple, heartfelt expression like, "I understand why you'd want to be there for our big day but, [partner’s name] and I decided to keep things super small and personal. Just the two of us. We really hope you understand and that we can all celebrate together somehow soon!” carries both grace and firmness.
Remember, you aren’t responsible for fixing their hurt feelings, nor do they have to validate your decision for it to be right for you.
Telling Friends and Family You Are Eloping
Your elopement is a beautiful affirmation of your love, a moment that is deeply personal and infinitely joyous. Should you be planning an intimate wedding, it would bring me immense joy to be thought of as your potential wedding photographer! Discover the ways we can work together by clicking here. I would love to hear from you!