When it comes to thoughts of a dream wedding, it is not just the bride and her groom who spend hours thinking about how the big day is going to pan out. Our parents, grandparents, and even our siblings may have very strong ideas about what our weddings should be like. It seems like when it comes to getting married everyone quickly forgets who this special occasion is all about – the happy couple! A growing number of couples are choosing elopement in order to avoid the stress of trying to please everyone as highlighted by our ongoing survey about why people choose to elope. Bur many couples still wondering ‘how do I tell my family i am eloping?’
However, while eloping may avoid the stress of the planning it does come at a price – telling the family! Just how are you going to explain to your Mom that, no, you won’t be getting married in front of all of her friends in Grandma’s antique lace gown? Is your best friend who has been dreaming of playing bridesmaid since the third grade ever going to forgive you? How is Daddy going to feel about not being able to give you away? It seems like a difficult choice, and at the risk of coming off a little harsh – they are just going to have to deal with it! It’s your day and you are doing it your way, so do not be put off by potential bad reactions to the news that you are going to elope! Your friends and family may be disappointed, but at the end of the day they just want you to be happy and they might not ever understand, but they will forgive you!
If you still feel a little uneasy, then here are our top 3 tips for telling the family about your elopement!
Don’t Leave It Until Afterwards
It may be tempting to keep your elopement under wraps and then spring the surprise on everyone when you return from your vacation as man and wife, but most experts suggest that this is not the best approach. It is far better to sit everyone down beforehand and explain that you have chosen to elope along with the reasons why you are going down this route. This may be an awkward conversation, but it will be less of a blow. If you at least give them the chance to air their opinions then they will feel at least a little bit included. However, do be prepared for some negativity from a few people – just don’t let it bring you down. They will get over it!
Throw A Party At Home
Some couples find that it placates the family if they throw a little party for everyone on coming home from the elopement. This is far less expensive than a traditional wedding reception and can be as informal as you choose. It gives your loved ones a chance to celebrate with you while still allowing you the intimate ceremony of your dreams. Alternatively you could have an engagement party beforehand.
Have More Than Just Two
While a traditional elopement may suggest the bride and groom alone with the officiant, modern elopements are often a little bigger. Even if you do not want the big white church wedding with 200 guests, you can still include your immediate family. Many elopement packages cover up to 8-12 guests. Your ceremony can still be very intimate and devoid of the circus of most weddings while having your parents there to witness the joyous occasions.