Minnesota Elopement Photographer

Eloping is an intimate and personal way to celebrate your love, and including your children can make the day even more special and meaningful. As a Minnesota-based elopement photographer, I’ve had the pleasure of capturing these beautiful moments, and I’m here to share some insights on how to seamlessly include your children in your elopement.

Two white wedding dresses hanging on outdoor pergola as two people look up at them.

Why Include Your Children?

  1. Family Bonding: Your children are a significant part of your life and your love story. Including them in your elopement can create cherished memories and strengthen family bonds.
  2. Symbolic Unity: An elopement with your children symbolizes the unity and commitment of your blended family.
  3. Shared Experience: Your children can share in the joy and excitement of your special day, making them feel valued and included


Tips for Including Your Children in Your Elopement


Involve Them in Planning:

  • Decision-Making: Let your children have a say in certain aspects of the elopement, like choosing their outfits or selecting a special activity.
  • Creative Input: Encourage them to create handmade decorations or write a speech or poem to share during the ceremony.


Age-Appropriate Roles:

  • Young Children: Younger kids can be flower girls or ring bearers. They can also be in charge of holding a special sign or scattering petals.
  • Older Children: Older kids might enjoy reading a poem, performing a song, or even officiating the ceremony if they are of legal age.


Choose a Child-Friendly Location:

  • Accessible and Safe: Select a location that is safe and accessible for children. Minnesota offers beautiful parks, lakesides, and forests that are perfect for family-friendly elopements.
  • Activities: Consider a location that offers activities your children will enjoy, such as hiking trails, a beach, or a playground.


Incorporate Special Family Traditions:

  • Unity Ceremony: Include a family unity ceremony, such as a sand ceremony or a candle lighting, to symbolize the joining of your families.
  • Personalized Vows: Write vows that acknowledge and include your children, expressing your commitment to them as well.


Capture the Moments:

  • Photography: Hire a photographer who is experienced in capturing family moments. I always aim to create a relaxed atmosphere, ensuring that the children feel comfortable and can be themselves.
  • Videography: Consider having a videographer to capture the day’s events, so you can relive the memories and share them with your children as they grow older.


Plan for Comfort:

  • Breaks and Snacks: Ensure there are plenty of breaks, snacks, and drinks available to keep the kids happy and comfortable throughout the day.
  • Entertainment: Bring along some entertainment, like coloring books or games, to keep them occupied during any downtime.


Celebrate with a Family-Style Reception:

  • Picnic or BBQ: Consider a relaxed, family-style picnic or BBQ where everyone, including the children, can unwind and celebrate together.
  • Activities: Plan some fun activities or games that everyone can enjoy, creating a joyful and inclusive atmosphere.


A joyful wedding moment captured outdoors with three people embracing on sunny grass.

Making It Memorable


Including your children in your elopement can transform the day into a beautiful family celebration. The key is to plan thoughtfully, ensuring that everyone feels included and valued. As your photographer, I’m here to capture these precious moments, creating lasting memories that you and your children will treasure forever.



Your elopement is a celebration of love, not just between you and your partner, but as a family. By including your children, you’re creating a day that honors and celebrates your unique family story. If you’re planning an elopement in Minnesota and want to make it a special family affair, I’d love to help you capture every moment of your incredible journey together.