Eloping is the ultimate “this is about us” move, but let’s be real: there’s often a nagging feeling about the people who won’t be there. Whether it’s your mom, your best friend since middle school, or your dog (okay, especially your dog), it’s natural to want to include the ones you love most—even if they’re not standing right next to you when you say “I do.”

The good news? You can keep your elopement intimate and 100% yours while finding creative ways to share the love with those who mean the most to you. Here’s how.

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1. Go Live or Record It

We’re living in the golden age of technology, so why not use it? If you don’t mind a little screen time on your big day, consider live-streaming your ceremony. A simple setup with a smartphone, a tripod, and decent Wi-Fi can bring the magic of your elopement to family and friends miles away.

For something a little more polished, hire a videographer to create a highlight reel or even a full-length wedding film. This way, you can relive the moment whenever you want and share it with loved ones who couldn’t be there. Bonus: this is perfect for true-to-life wedding photos or candid footage that makes everyone feel like they were in the moment with you.

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2. Plan a Post-Elopement Celebration

Who says you have to keep your elopement a one-day affair? After your quiet “I do” moment, throw a party back home with your favorite people. Think less “sit-down dinner with a 17-course meal” and more “let’s get weird and dance in my backyard.” Whether you’re vibing with a brewery bash, a bonfire party, or a casual brunch, this is a way to celebrate your way.

If you’re in Missouri, the options are endless. In Springfield, consider renting out a private space at Tie & Timber Beer Co. or having a laid-back dinner at Corner 21. For those in Kansas City, Boulevard Brewing Company offers an incredible space for larger gatherings. In St. Louis, imagine a chic rooftop celebration overlooking the Arch. (I mean, how cool would that be in your editorial wedding photos?)

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3. Write Personal Letters or Include Messages

Before your elopement, ask loved ones to write letters or notes you can read on your wedding day. There’s something so intimate and grounding about hearing from the people who love you most, even when they can’t physically be there.

If you want to turn this idea up a notch, take their notes and incorporate them into your day—maybe by folding them into a bouquet, creating a photo book, or even reading them aloud during your vows.

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4. Bring the Sentimental Stuff

Whether it’s your grandma’s locket, a handwritten note from your dad, or a photo of your dog (because obviously they’re family too), carrying sentimental keepsakes with you is a way to feel their presence. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate—a small token can mean the world.

And hey, if you’re in Colorado, you can skip the sentimental item and just bring your dog as your witness. Yep, you read that right. Dogs can legally serve as witnesses for your wedding ceremony there. Just make sure they’re down to sign the paperwork (pawprint and all).

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5. Share the Moment Through Photos

Hire a quirky wedding photographer (ahem, hi) who knows how to capture your day in a way that feels authentic and alive. Afterward, you can share an online gallery of your colorful wedding photography or even create keepsakes for loved ones.

If you want to make your photos extra special, schedule a reveal party. Gather your closest people, grab some drinks, and relive the day through your editorial wedding photos. This is a great way to bring everyone into the experience—even if they weren’t there in person.

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6. Video Messages and Toasts

Flip the script: Instead of you recording something for your family, ask them to send you video messages. Watching their heartfelt (or hilariously off-the-cuff) toasts on your elopement day can make you feel so connected to your people.

Alternatively, you could pre-record a toast or message to share with them after the big day. It’s a small gesture that says, “We love you, but we’re doing this our way.”

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7. Plan a Group Adventure

If you want to include family and friends but still keep the day intimate, consider planning a group outing before or after the wedding. Think hiking, kayaking, or even wine tasting at one of Missouri’s gorgeous vineyards. It’s a way to make memories together while keeping the ceremony itself private.

Some Missouri recommendations:

• Springfield/417 Area: Explore the beautiful trails at Fellows Lake or spend a day at Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield for a mix of history and nature.
• Kansas City: Go brewery-hopping or rent paddleboards at Shawnee Mission Park.
• St. Louis: Take a stroll through the Missouri Botanical Garden or hit up the incredible dining scene downtown.
• Columbia: Hike the scenic trails at Rock Bridge Memorial State Park or visit Les Bourgeois Vineyards for some wine and epic views.

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8. Virtual “I Do” Parties

If your family and friends are spread out across the country (or the globe), consider hosting a virtual party after your elopement. Send out invites, share your favorite quirky wedding photography, and toast with everyone from the comfort of your couch.

To make it more interactive, mail guests a little something ahead of time—like mini bottles of champagne or a playlist of your favorite songs.

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9. Incorporate Cultural or Family Traditions

One way to feel connected to loved ones is to bring family traditions into your elopement day. Whether it’s a special prayer, a traditional meal, or even a favorite family song, these small touches can make the day feel intimate and personal.

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10. Stay True to YOU

At the end of the day, eloping is about doing what feels right for you and your partner. Including family and friends is wonderful—but don’t let their expectations overshadow your vision.

Whether you’re trekking to a remote Missouri overlook for vibrant wedding photography, sharing pizza and champagne on the hood of your car, or saying your vows under the stars, the most important thing is that it’s your day. And let’s be honest: the people who love you will love whatever you do.

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Final Thoughts

Eloping doesn’t mean excluding the people you care about—it just means celebrating in a way that’s deeply personal and true to you. From live-streaming your vows to hosting a kickass post-elopement bash, there are countless ways to include family and friends while keeping your day intimate.

So go ahead, dream big, and plan a day that feels right for you. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about following traditions or meeting expectations—it’s about celebrating your love in a way that feels honest, joyful, and 100% you.

And if you need someone to capture the magic? Let’s make it happen with some unconventional wedding photos that you’ll treasure forever. Because your love deserves to be seen. 💕