You did it, you eloped! You said your vows in your own way, in your own time, in a place that felt like you (hopefully I was there crying with you as your Asheville Elopement Photographer).
Now, Thanksgiving is coming up, and you’re about to see family for the first time since your big (little) day. You might be feeling excited, nervous, or somewhere in between.
How do you tell your family you eloped in a way that feels genuine, kind, and maybe even a little fun? Let’s talk about it.
As an elopement photographer in Asheville, I hear it all the time. “Our family is going to be upset,” “we don’t know how to share the news.” And I completely understand. My brother eloped at the courthouse, and my parents and I were pretty upset about it. Not because we wanted him to do something that he didn’t want, but because we felt like we weren’t included in such a momentous moment in his life. I had suggested we take them out to dinner to celebrate and that was really all we needed.
Why Thanksgiving Might Be the Perfect Time to Share the News
Thanksgiving brings everyone together, literally and emotionally. It’s one of the few times families slow down, share stories, and talk about what they’re grateful for.
That makes it the perfect moment to let your loved ones in on your story, especially if you want to celebrate your marriage surrounded by warmth, food, and (hopefully) good vibes.
Before You Share the News…
A few things to consider before the big reveal:
- Decide who you want to tell first.
If you think a few family members (like parents or siblings) might feel hurt if they hear it in front of everyone, consider pulling them aside earlier in the day. - Think about tone.
Do you want to make it funny? Sentimental? Subtle? Your approach will set the tone for everyone else’s reaction. - Bring something tangible.
A few printed photos or a short highlight video can help everyone see your love, and it usually melts hearts faster than words can.
5 Creative Ways to Tell Your Family You Eloped at Thanksgiving
1. Make It Part of the Gratitude Round
When it’s your turn to share what you’re thankful for, say something like:
“This year, I’m really thankful for love, adventure, and… my new spouse.”
Cue the gasps, laughter, and maybe a few tears, it’s a beautiful, organic way to reveal the news.
2. Bring a Surprise Photo Album
Print a few of your favorite elopement photos and tuck them into a small album or keepsake box. After dinner, casually hand it to a parent or sibling and say, “We wanted to show you what we’ve been up to…”
Watching their faces light up as they flip through the photos is chef’s kiss perfection.
You could even consider printing several to let your family members keep. As your elopement photographer in Asheville, I can help you create beautiful keepsakes and albums.
3. Make It a Toast
Pour some champagne (or sparkling cider) before dessert and raise a glass:
“We have one more thing to celebrate, we’re married!”
It’s festive, simple, and totally in the spirit of the day.
4. Create a “Thankful For” Card or Place Setting
If you love little details, create custom place cards for dinner that say things like:
“Thankful for my new husband.”
“Grateful to be Mrs. ___.”
“So thankful for love and adventure.”
It might take a few people a second to notice bu,t once they do, it’s guaranteed to spark smiles (and maybe some happy chaos).
5. Share a Video After Dinner
If you have an elopement video or a short highlight reel, queue it up after dessert and say you want to “show a little something from your last trip.”
When your family realizes it’s your wedding, they’ll lose it, hopefully, in the best way. It’s cinematic, emotional, and a great way to include everyone in your story.
How to Handle Reactions (The Good and the Awkward)
Not everyone reacts the same way, and that’s okay.
Some family members might be over-the-moon happy for you. Others might be surprised, or even a little sad they weren’t there. Here’s how to navigate it gracefully:
- Lead with love: Remind them that you eloped because it felt right for you, not because you didn’t want them there.
- Share the story: Walk them through your day, the view, the vows, the quiet moments. Bring them into the experience.
- Offer inclusion: Tell them you can’t wait to celebrate with them soon (maybe with a dinner, a party, or even a small vow renewal later on). Just make sure that whatever you plan, it’s what you want.
Bonus Idea: Turn Thanksgiving Into a Mini Reception
You don’t need a ballroom to celebrate, just a table, some pie, and people you love.
Set out a few prints, a cake or dessert in your wedding colors, and maybe even your bouquet as a centerpiece. Add a little sparkle to the meal and make it feel like both a holiday and a celebration of your love story. You could even throw your wedding attire back on!
Eloping doesn’t mean leaving family behind, it means you chose to start your marriage your way. Sharing that choice on Thanksgiving, surrounded by people who love you, can be one of the sweetest memories you’ll ever make.
So pour the wine, pass the mashed potatoes, and get ready to say,
“We have something to tell you…”
And, of course, if you haven’t eloped yet and are ready to start planning, inquire with me here.
