How To Elope with Kids in NYC: Expert Tips From Elopement Pros

Because “just the two of us” doesn’t always apply, and that’s a beautiful thing.

Many of our couples aren’t following the old-school, “first comes love, then comes marriage” blueprint. And why should they? Life is wild. Love is unpredictable. And sometimes, your flower girl is also your daughter.

I was six months pregnant when I got married in a beautiful Brooklyn community garden, followed by a small celebration at my favorite pizza place afterward (#pizzaforever 🍕). It was low-key, joyful, and real. Which is what eloping with kids can (and should!) be.

At Eloping Is Fun, we meet couples at every stage of life: brand-new parents with a sleepy newborn in a sling, blended families with seven kids, or couples wrangling tweens who are “not thrilled” about dressing up. And as a mom of two myself, I get it. The nonstop logistics. The clinginess. The eye-rolls. The snacks. (So many snacks.)

But here’s the truth: your elopement can still be magical. Yes, even with kids in tow.

In fact, it can be even more meaningful. So let’s talk about how to make it work with joy, intention, and a healthy dose of realism. Here are a few ways we can help you make your wedding day with your kids a beautiful family bonding experience.

Tip #1: Hire a nanny (yes, really)

If your kiddo is under 6, we highly recommend booking one of our trusted nannies for part of the day. Why? Because toddlers don’t care that it’s your wedding day… They will melt down for a granola bar at any time, any place.

Our vetted babysitters can meet you after the ceremony and whisk your little ones off for a nap, a snack, or an adventure at a nearby playground while you and your partner sneak in some alone time (and maybe an espresso martini or two).

Pro parenting and pro eloping.

Tip #2: Embrace the craziness

We do not need your kids to pose like perfect angels. That’s not what this is about.

We love the real moments: your kid jumping mid-photo, stealing your bouquet, tugging on your dress, or making the whole group laugh uncontrollably. After a few “formal” family photos, we let the kids just be. We’ll capture the joy, the silliness, and the beautiful mess of your real-life family dynamic.

Tip #3: Build in space for your older kids

If you’ve got tweens or teens, they’re usually a little more hip to what’s happening. That doesn’t mean they’re emotionally forthcoming, but they are watching.

Don’t hesitate to involve them in the planning. Schedule a mother-daughter mani-pedi or a quick detour for junk food. Build in a stop at their favorite ice cream shop or sneaker store. Give them something that’s just for them.

For reference: I’ve got a tween who still talks to me (bless her), and my boyfriend’s teenage boys who barely grunt hello. Both ends of the spectrum matter. Find little ways to acknowledge their presence — even if they don’t say a word, it means something.

Tip #4: Pre-visualize the hiccups

We’ll sit down together before your wedding day and imagine all the possible “oh sh*t” moments — toddler tantrums, runaway snacks, a distracted 5-year-old mid-ceremony — and come up with a game plan. No surprises on your wedding day! Just preparation with a side of flexibility.

Tip #5: Feed the beasts (aka your family)

Wedding day nerves are real, and most couples forget to eat before the ceremony. Add kids to the mix? You’re looking at a hangry meltdown waiting to happen.

We’ll help you pick a location where little ones can move freely and let out their energy, and we’ll make sure everyone’s well-fed beforehand. Pack snacks. Always. (This is not a drill.)

Tip #6: Let them be part of the moment

There is nothing more beautiful than having your children there to witness you get married. Whether they’re 3 or 13, it becomes a core memory.

We can write custom vows that you all say together as a family. Your child can read a poem or hold the rings. Or they can simply stand by your side in their sparkly sneakers and feel the love all around them.

Final Thoughts

Your family is already beautifully unconventional. Your wedding day should be, too.

At Eloping Is Fun, we’re here to make sure your elopement honors not just your partnership, but your whole crew — quirks, chaos, and all.

I can’t wait to meet you and hear about your family values, your weird traditions, and your kid’s current obsession (Minecraft? K-pop? Dinosaurs?). Let’s make magic together one epic snack-filled, nap-timed, joy-packed elopement at a time.