As a photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing countless weddings and families. One of the most heartwarming experiences is documenting elopements and weddings that include children. Eloping with kids may seem a bit unconventional, but it’s an incredibly special way to celebrate love. When kids are included it’s not just between two people but as a family unit. I’ve seen that having children involved adds a unique layer of emotion, spontaneity, and joy to the day. Here’s how you can plan a family-friendly elopement with your little ones and ensure the experience is beautifully captured.
1. Choosing a Kid-Friendly Elopement Destination
One of the first things I always ask when a couple plans to elope with their children is about the location. The destination needs to be not only visually stunning for your wedding photos but also engaging for your kids. Selecting a place where your children can have fun and be themselves will help create candid, natural moments that make for unforgettable images.
Top Kid-Friendly Elopement Destinations:
- National Parks: Wide open spaces, stunning vistas, and plenty of room for your kids to explore. Places like Yosemite, the Grand Tetons, or even local state parks make for perfect backdrops while giving your kids a sense of adventure.
- Beaches: Children love the beach! Beach elopements allow for some incredibly fun and playful photo opportunities, like splashing in the waves or building sandcastles. If you’re looking for something on the Gulf Coast, check out how to get married in Gulf Shores, Alabama!
- Mountain Retreats: The Blue Ridge Mountains or the Smokies offer serene views. They also have hiking and nature activities that can keep your little ones entertained between moments.
2. Incorporating Your Kids into the Ceremony
One of my favorite parts of family elopements is seeing how children participate. Whether they’re shy or full of energy, every interaction can result in candid photos that are full of personality. Letting children play an active role in the ceremony makes them feel included and ensures their emotions and reactions are authentically captured.
Ways to Involve Kids in the Ceremony:
- Walking down the aisle together: Let the kiddos proudly lead their parents down the aisle!
- Personalized vows to your children: Some couples who say vows not only to each other but to their children. This creates a beautiful and emotional scene.
- Family unity rituals: Things like sand ceremonies, candle lighting, or hand-fasting ceremonies where kids get involved create powerful images that symbolize family unity.
3. Capturing Natural Moments with a Family-Friendly Photographer
When photographing elopements with kids, flexibility is key. As a family-friendly photographer of over seven years, I’ve learned that children don’t always cooperate or pose as expected. That’s where my job becomes more about capturing the spontaneous and authentic moments rather than staged shots. A good photographer will know how to make your kids feel comfortable, allowing for real expressions and interactions to unfold.
Why Hire a Family-Friendly Photographer:
- Patience and flexibility: I work with the natural rhythm of children, waiting for those magical, unscripted moments.
- Keeping kids engaged: I often incorporate play or ask kids to show me their favorite toys or activities to keep them entertained during photo sessions.
- Capturing real emotions: Kids will laugh, cry, or maybe even get a little mischievous. Each of these moments is gold from a storytelling perspective.
4. Planning a Relaxed, Kid-Friendly Timeline
I always advise couples to keep their elopement timelines short and simple when kids are involved. Long ceremonies or long periods without breaks can make kids restless, which can affect their mood and the overall experience. By keeping things brief, you can enjoy the day and ensure that your photographer has ample time to capture the moments without anyone getting overwhelmed.
Tips for a Family-Friendly Timeline:
- Schedule around nap times or when your kids are naturally energetic.
- Incorporate breaks: Plan for snack breaks or time to let kids run around.
- Keep the ceremony short: A 10-15 minute ceremony is usually perfect for keeping kids happy. It allows plenty of time for stunning photos afterward, too.
5. Creating Picture-Perfect Memories with Kids
Some of the most memorable images I’ve taken with kids are the in-between moments—when the couple shares a quiet kiss and the kids are off in the background playing or when the family is laughing together, basking in the joy of the moment. Those candid, unscripted interactions are often the most cherished.
Tips for Memorable Photos:
- Don’t stress about perfection: Kids bring a beautiful unpredictability to the day. Trust that your photographer will capture the beauty in every moment.
- Embrace the play: Let your kids run, play, or act silly. These moments often produce the most genuine and heartwarming photos.
- Include family traditions: Whether it’s a special song, a shared game, or a favorite snack, incorporating small family traditions will make your elopement feel even more personal.
6. Post-Ceremony Family Celebration
After the ceremony, it’s time to celebrate—and if kids are involved, consider a laid-back, family-friendly reception. Whether it’s a picnic, a backyard BBQ, or just exploring, planning something that’s both fun and relaxing for them makes for wonderful post-ceremony photos.
Family-Friendly Celebration Ideas:
- A picnic with a view: Set up a simple picnic after the elopement which makes for some cozy, intimate shots.
- Outdoor games: Play cornhole or frisbee to keep kids entertained while I capture the joy and laughter.
- Day trips or adventures: Go on hikes, to amusement parks, or explore the local area as I document the adventure side of the elopement.
7. Preserving the Day with Stunning Family Portraits
At the end of the day, the photos will tell the story of your elopement—capturing both the romance of your love and the joy of your family. When you elope with kids, my goal is to create a visual legacy that not only focuses on the union of two people but celebrates the beauty of your entire family.
Key Shots to Include:
- The family walk: Capture the moment you all walk hand-in-hand toward your new future together.
- Candid moments: Kids laughing, playing, or reacting to the day’s events.
- Classic family portraits: Include one or two formal portraits, but don’t be afraid to let them be a little playful to reflect your family’s personality.
Final Thoughts: Eloping with Kids is a Family Adventure
As a photographer, I’ve learned that eloping with kids isn’t about creating a “perfect” day, but rather about embracing the beauty of your family and all its unique dynamics. The key is to go with the flow. Keep things simple and allow your children to be an integral part of your celebration. Your elopement will not only mark the beginning of your married life but will also create lasting memories for your entire family. Those memories will be captured forever through your elopement photos.
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