Elopement Wedding Guests: To Invite or Not

 
 
 
 
elopement photographer at burgh island in devon
elopement photographer at burgh island in devon

When it comes to planning your elopement, one of the key decisions you'll need to make is whether or not to include guests. Elopements are a unique and intimate way to exchange vows with your partner, but you might be wondering if it's still important to have some of your loved ones present.

There are many reasons why couples choose to elope, some because they don't want the fuss, family dilemmas, just want to enjoy each others company only. Whatever the decision, making sure it's the right one for you is super important.

Ultimately, the decision to have guests at your elopement is a personal one. Here are some factors to consider:

Pros of having guests

  1. Shared Experience: Having your closest family and friends present to celebrate with you can make the day even more special. You’ll have someone to share your memories and stories with for years to come.

  2. Support: Elopements can be stressful as there are many things to consider. Having loved ones around can provide the support you need during this process.

  3. Group event: An elopement with even a small group of people can be seen as an enjoyable adventure with everyone joining in on the excitement. You can still make it your own without the traditions, just bring along your closest to enjoy the ride.

Cons of having guests

  1. Additional Stress: More people mean more opinions, preferences, and requests that you’ll need to consider and accommodate. This creates another layer of stress on your day.

  2. Financial Burden: If you decide to have guests, it will increase your expenses. You'll need to consider the cost of travel, accommodation, food, and more.

  3. Compromised Privacy: It can be challenging to find an elopement venue that can accommodate your guests and respect your privacy. You might have fewer options to choose from, which could compromise your ideal location or overall experience.

Ultimately, it's important to remember that your elopement is about you and your partner. It's an opportunity to celebrate your love and commitment to each other. If you decide to include guests, make sure you choose individuals who will bring joy and support to your day, not stress.

On the other hand, if you're planning a more private and romantic experience, there’s no harm in that. You might want to savour every moment with your partner alone, and that's perfectly fine too! You can always host an event after for those who weren't at your wedding and party hard!


There's no right or wrong answer to the question of whether or not you need guests at your elopement. The decision should be entirely up to you and your partner. Just ensure that whatever decision you make, it feels true to your values and what you want your day to look and feel like.

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