How to Announce an Elopement

Some loved ones may be hurt that they weren't there.

Explore our tips on how to assuage your loved ones when you share the news that you got hitched.

By Emily Lasnier

bride-and-groom-celebrating-wedding-weekend-in-spetses-greece
Photo: Thanos Asfis Photography

While we’re certainly fans of extravagant weddings, we understand that it’s not for everyone. If planning is stressing you out or a large event simply isn’t your thing, you and your sweetheart may choose to elope instead. Once upon a time, this was seen merely as an option for lovebirds whose parents didn’t approve of their union, but now it can simply be a romantic and private choice – whether spontaneous or planned. One problem with eloping, however, is it can hurt the feelings of your friends and family who expected to see you tie the knot. Getting married is about your love, but weddings are a celebration, and some people can feel disappointed if they aren’t included. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t elope if that is truly the right choice for you and your partner. Instead, we have tips on how to assuage your loved ones when you share the news that you got hitched. 

how to announce your elopement to friends and family

Photo by Samuel Lippke Studios

- Let everyone know ASAP. It may be nerve-racking if you aren’t sure how people will react, but the longer you wait, the worse it will be. It also increases the risk of a loved one hearing through the grapevine if you don’t announce your new marriage to people at the same time. 

- Don’t use social media. Yes, this may be an appropriate way to share your news with acquaintances, but not with your loved ones. Think of it like an engagement – in person is best, but a phone call or video chat will suffice if distance is a factor. 

- Take lots of pictures. No matter how small or casual your elopement is people will feel like they missed out. Help them feel like they were there by showing photos of the proceedings. 

- Throw a party. It doesn’t have to be a full-blown reception, after all that is probably why you eloped in the first place, but a casual get-together is a great way to announce your new marriage as well as give everyone an opportunity to celebrate. 

Learn everything you need to know about eloping and find out how to throw a reception after.

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