How to Handle Your Elopement Guest List Like a Pro

Four ways to handle your guest list without losing your chill.

So, you’ve decided to elope. Cue the excitement! Cue the freedom! Cue… the guest list panic?

Yep, even when you’re skipping the big wedding, the question of who to invite to your elopement (if anyone at all) tends to pop up. You’re not alone! Guest lists are one of the top things we hear about from couples planning their elopement.

And here’s what we want to remind you: eloping today doesn’t look like it used to.

The old-school definition of “just the couple sneaking away in secret” has evolved. Modern elopements can include guests, celebrations, even mini-dance parties… or not. It’s up to you.

If you’re wondering what your elopement guest list should look like, here are four ways our couples have approached it with honesty, clarity, and zero stress.

Option 1: Elope Now, Explain Later

This is the classic elopement move with a twist: you get married in secret, keep the moment totally private, and share the big news after you’ve said your vows.

Some couples tell one or two close people in advance. Others let everyone know once the deed is done — photos, rings, champagne, and all.

Why it works:

• No outside pressure or opinions
• 100% private and personal
• Major “surprise drop” vibes (which is kinda fun!)

Perfect for you if:

You love the idea of keeping this sacred moment between just the two of you, or you’d rather avoid the pre-wedding stress altogether.

Option 2: Announce It, But Invite No One

If you want to elope but also want transparency, this one’s for you.

Make the announcement ahead of time:

“Hey fam, we’re eloping! Just us. Can’t wait to celebrate with you later!”

That’s it. Clean, clear, and drama-free.

Why it works:

• Sets expectations early
• Helps minimize guilt, assumptions, or guest list pressure
• Still lets people feel included, even if they’re not physically there

Perfect for you if:

You’re not trying to hide anything, but you are trying to keep things simple, meaningful, and free of unnecessary logistics.

Option 3: Invite Close Family Only

Some couples want to share the day with a few close family members, but without turning it into a full-blown wedding.

Invite your ride-or-die people (like parents, siblings, or your grandma who never misses a celebration). Just make it clear that this is still an elopement, and their presence is optional, not an obligation.

Why it works:

• You get the intimacy of eloping, with the joy of family by your side
• You set the tone and scale of the event
• Helps navigate long-distance logistics with grace

Perfect for you if:

You want to include family, but still keep the focus on you two. This is especially common for couples eloping from abroad or across the country. It’s a sweet gesture, not a requirement.

Option 4: Invite Your Chosen Family

Not all families are Hallmark-ready. Whether it’s complicated relationships, estranged relatives, or just plain drama, sometimes the best thing you can do is surround yourself with the people who feel like home.

Invite your chosen family. Your best friends. Your people!

Why it works:

• You create a celebration full of love and safety
• No drama, no awkward vibes
• You get to define what family means on your day

Perfect for you if:

You’ve got a tight crew who has supported you through thick and thin, and you want to honor them without any of the baggage that can come with blood ties.

Final Thoughts: Your Elopement, Your Guest List, Your Rules

Our advice? Pick the option that works best for you and stick with it. It’s your wedding, your rules, your moment!

So whether you fly solo, bring your inner circle, or roll deep with your favorite humans — give yourself permission to choose what feels best. Set your boundaries, communicate clearly, and don’t look back.

There will always be conversations about the decisions that you make, but embrace your choice and you do YOU.

Not sure which option is right for you? We’d love to help you think it through! Click the “Inquire” button below and let’s chat about your guest list and all the possibilities.