11 Ways to Include Family and Friends During Your Elopement

You and your significant other were introduced to the concept of eloping over a year ago. Ever since it is all you can think about, and you know it is the perfect wedding option for you.

The only problem? You are worried about offending your family and friends.

Although, you should base your decision to elope based on how you feel as a couple. I do understand the fear of hurting feelings and stepping on toes. So, whether your family or friends come along or you want to include them in a day just for the two of them somehow, here are some ideas :

ONE

Ask them to choose a poem, reading, or prayer to have read during the wedding.

TWO

Let them write letters for you to read after your ceremony.

THREE

Have them choose the ribbon for your ceremony.

FOUR

Bring along something meaningful from your family - like a book, photo, quilt, necklace, etc.

FIVE

Invite them along for the short hike.

SIX

FaceTime with them when you have service.

SEVEN

Have them meet you at the brewery after your hike for just the two of you.

EIGHT

Hire a videographer or create a slideshow of your photos to show at a celebration at a later date.

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NINE

Turn it into a fun weekend getaway and bring them to your favorite place as part of the adventure.
(like this camping wedding Ashley & Jeremy had!)

TEN

Have a toast with everyone.

ELEVEN

Invite them to officiate your ceremony (even if it’s not “official”).

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Inspiration for a Rainy Day Elopement

You can’t go wrong with a Rainy Day Elopement! Honestly, I don’t blame you for preferring the moody vibes over all else!

If Twilight and dancing in puddles are some of your favorite things, and you want to incorporate those vibes into your wedding day, then keep reading!

SEVEN TIPS FOR A MEMORABLE RAINY DAY ELOPEMENT

As an elopement photographer based in Shenandoah National Park, I am no stranger to rainy days. At first, they stressed me out. However, as I became more familiar with the magic they produce, I have learned to love them more than anything.

When my couples hear that rain is present on the forecast, I always do my best to calm anxious thoughts. Did you know that rain on your elopement day is actually a sign of good luck?! The most important thing is to be prepared and focus on celebrating your love.

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ONE | YOU MIGHT NEED TO SWITCH UP
YOUR LOCATION

If you are planning on having your elopement on the peak with a mountain view, you may need to change things up! Having your wedding in the woods, or among enough rocks, will allow the fog to break. Not only that, but it will give you a romantic backdrop.

TWO | BRING PROPS TO ADD TO
THE AMBIANCE

Props, for any wedding, are always a good idea. Bringing them to add to the ambiance of a rainy day elopement can make moments so special. My favorite a lanterns. The way they match the mood of the weather makes for incredible photos.

THREE | EMBRACE THE WEATHER
THE BEST YOU CAN

No matter how hard you try, you cannot change the weather. Trust me, I have tried plenty of times. Do you know what you can change though? Your thoughts and feelings. Mindsets are hard to alter, but if you can manage to focus on your love, the rain and fog won’t be so bad.

FOUR | DITCH THE HEELS

I promise that there is nothing worse than experiencing your Rainy Day Elopement in heels or other shoes that aren’t meant for mud and water. If you are having your wedding in the forest, you may want to consider hiking boots!

FIVE | BRING UMBRELLAS

I know this one seems pretty obvious, but you would be surprised by how many people don’t even own an umbrella! I recommend going with clear ones. Not only do they look cool, but they are completely functional too! I like to believe that whoever created them made them purposely with Rainy Day Elopements in mind.

SIX | KNOW THAT YOUR ELOPEMENT ATTIRE
WILL GET DIRTY

Be prepared for your dress to pick up some extra “adventure.” Even on a dry day, your wedding dress will probably pick up an “elopement ombre.” However, it will happen 10-fold on a rainy day! If that doesn’t sit well with you, just think of it as proof that you really did go on an adventure on your wedding day.

SEVEN | KEEP A BACKUP LOCATION IN MIND

Having a backup location such as an Airbnb or a coffee shop can be a gamechanger if you don’t want to be in the rain the entire time.

Do you need a photographer to capture your Rainy Day Elopement? Let’s chat! I would love nothing more than to help you remember your day forever.

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See more Rainy Day Elopements
& Photo Shoots!

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