How To Tell Friends And Family You Are Eloping

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Are you dreaming of ditching the traditional wedding fanfare for an intimate elopement adventure? That’s awesome! But, uh oh, how do you actually tell friends and family you are eloping? Let’s just say it can be a little nerve-wracking. They might be expecting a grand celebration, and it’s natural to feel a little nervous about letting them know about your change of plans.

We get it. Here, at European Elopement Guide, we’ve helped tons of couples pull off the perfect surprise elopement. Whether you’re dreaming of slipping away to a mountaintop or exchanging vows under the Tuscan moon, one question always pops up: How in the world do you tell your loved ones? It’s a big decision, no doubt!

So, let’s dive in and tackle those fears head-on! We’ll walk you through the whole tricky business of breaking the news, from choosing between spilling the beans beforehand or springing it on everyone afterward to handling your family’s range of reactions (yep, we’re talking happy tears to shocked gasps).

Should You Tell People Before Or After You Elope?

Okay, first let’s talk about the question that keeps you up at night: “Should you tell friends and family you are eloping before or after you elope?” Honestly, there’s no single right answer. Every couple’s situation is unique, and every family has its own dynamic. Think of it like that perfect pair of hiking boots—they have to fit your specific adventure.

We’ve seen couples rock both approaches—the pre-elopement announcement and the grand post-elopement reveal. The key is to do what feels right for you and your partner.

This decision depends a lot on your relationship with your family. How supportive are they? Do your parents expect a big traditional wedding? Will they be hurt if you don’t include them? Only you and your partner can decide if telling your parents in advance will lead to months of hurt feelings and guilt trips—or if your parents will relish their role as secret keepers as they help you coordinate the details.

Whichever approach you take, it’ll come with both pros and cons.

Pre-Elopement Announcement

This is easier said than done. Some parents and families thrive on drama. You might know that if you tell them ahead of time, you’re in for months of sighing, guilt trips, and attempts to change your mind. On the other hand, maybe you’ve got the kind of supportive crew who would love to help you sneak around and plan your perfect day. At the end of the day, if you think springing it on them afterwards would be worse than any drama beforehand, give them a heads-up!

Post-Elopement Announcement

Some say telling people afterwards might feel like a sucker punch, especially for your parents. But hey, sometimes you have to do what’s right for you! If you anticipate a lot of negativity if you tell them beforehand, waiting until it’s a done deal might be the way to go. And imagine the fun of sharing those awesome elopement photos with a “Guess what we did!” announcement.

When To Tell People You Are Eloping?

There’s no hard-and-fast rule or a specific time frame for this either. If your elopement is happening in just a few weeks, keeping it under wraps until it gets closer might be easier. On the flip side, if you’re planning months ahead, giving your loved ones some time to digest the news can help manage any initial shock or disappointment.

Plus, if you’re dreaming of having a few special people at your side or want their help with planning, you’ll need to fill them in on the details sooner rather than later.

Meanwhile, for some, waiting until closer to the date might avoid a prolonged headache if they anticipate a lot of pushback or drama.

Who Should You Tell First?

Start with the people who matter most. These are the ones who will be genuinely thrilled for you, no matter what. Who better to share your epic elopement plans with than the friends who’ve been there for thick and thin and the siblings who always have your back?

Also, if you have a close-knit family who’s always on board with your crazy ideas, then they might be the perfect people to confide in first.

Ways To Tell People You Are Eloping

Let’s break down some of our favourite approaches at European Elopement Guide—some subtle, some bold, but all guaranteed to stir up some serious excitement!

Drop hints about it early on

Gently drop some hints! Mention that you’re not a huge fan of big weddings or express your love for intimate ceremonies. This gives people a chance to start wrapping their heads around the idea.

Tell family and friends face-to-face beforehand

Sometimes, the most considerate approach is having those heart-to-heart conversations. Grab coffee with your parents or take your best friend out for dinner and break the news gently.

Explain to your family why you’re eloping

This isn’t the time to be vague! Focus on the positive and be clear when you tell family you’re eloping, and don’t be afraid to share your dreams and vision with them!

Use the term ‘small wedding’ or ‘Intimate Celebration’ instead of elopement

Worried about the old-school definition of “elopement”? Soften the announcement by framing it as a small, intimate ceremony instead.

Wait until after you elope

This is an option for truly bold couples! Embrace the secret mission and announce it after the fact.

Hire a rad photographer and announce it via an elopement photo album

Let the stunning visuals do the talking! Share those breathtaking mountaintop moments or your dreamy Italian villa vows in a beautiful photo album mailed to your loved ones.

Click here to check out some truly inspiring European elopement shoots and begin envisioning your own adventurous photo story!

Call your friends and family from your elopement

This one’s not for the faint of heart! Video call your inner circle right from your ceremony. Get those happy tears flowing in real time!

Hold an ‘engagement party’ before or after

An engagement party doesn’t have to mean a giant guest list! Celebrate with your close friends and family, then reveal your elopement plans either at the party or afterward.

Extend them an invite to help

Sometimes, including your loved ones in the planning process can make all the difference. Have them write vows for you, choose a dress, or even help with decorations for a post-elopement celebration!

Announce your elopement on social media

Sharing your gorgeous photos alongside the announcement is a modern and fun way to let everyone know! Get ready for those likes and heartfelt comments (just maybe wait until you’ve told your closest friends and family first if you don’t want them finding out your news via someone else).

Wrap Up!

Remember, friends and family—they’re kind of a big deal! While it might seem daunting to figure out how to tell friends and family you are eloping, remember that the people who love you ultimately want you to be happy. Whether you choose to give them a heads-up, include them in the planning, or surprise them with the news afterward, your elopement is all about celebrating your love in a way that feels true to you.