How to Include Your Kids and Family in Your Elopement at Garden of the Gods

Bobak Radbin
Feb 20, 2022
3 min read

Updated: Feb 5

Eloping does not always mean running away just the two of you. For many couples, it means choosing intimacy while still honoring the people who matter most.

A family elopement at Garden of the Gods is a beautiful way to blend connection, intention, and simplicity. Danielle’s elopement was a perfect example of how love, laughter, and family can all exist in one meaningful day without turning it into a traditional wedding.

Set against the red rock formations and soft natural light of Colorado Springs, this elopement felt warm, relaxed, and deeply personal.

A family-centered elopement at Garden of the Gods

From the moment Danielle and her family arrived, it was clear this day was about more than vows. It was about togetherness.

Her children were not just present, they were part of the story. As we moved through the park, their laughter and curiosity shaped the pace of the day. Nothing felt rushed or forced. The moments unfolded naturally, exactly how a family elopement should feel.

This is one of the biggest benefits of eloping. You get to design a day that reflects your real life, not a performance.

Why a family elopement at Garden of the Gods works so well

Garden of the Gods is one of the best elopement locations in Colorado for families, especially those with children.

Here is why it works so beautifully:

Accessibility
Easy parking and well-maintained paths make it manageable for kids, grandparents, and anyone who needs a slower pace.
Space
The park offers wide open areas where families can spread out and move comfortably without feeling crowded.
Light and scenery
Soft natural light and dramatic rock formations create timeless images that feel emotional rather than staged.

If you are still exploring whether this location is right for you, my ➜ Colorado elopement guide walks through everything you need to know.

Tips for including kids in your elopement at Garden of the Gods

Including children in your elopement does not require perfection. It requires flexibility.

Here are a few things that help create a smooth and joyful experience.

1. Let kids be kids

Movement, curiosity, and play are part of the story. Some of the most meaningful moments come from letting kids be themselves instead of asking them to pose.

2. Bring comfort items

Snacks, water, layers, and a favorite small toy can make a huge difference in how relaxed everyone feels.

3. Choose easy, scenic areas

Garden of the Gods offers family-friendly spots that feel adventurous without requiring long hikes. This keeps the experience fun rather than tiring.

4. Plan your timing intentionally

Early morning or golden hour offers softer light, fewer people, and calmer energy. This is especially helpful for families with young children.

5. Balance family and couple portraits

Start with group photos while everyone is fresh. Then transition into quiet moments for just the two of you while your kids stay close and comfortable.

My ➜ elopement packages are designed to stay flexible so your day can adapt to your family instead of the other way around.

Danielle’s family elopement story

For Danielle, this elopement was about unity. Her children stood proudly beside her, fully included in the experience, not on the sidelines.

We focused on a balance of candid family interactions and simple, timeless portraits. The result was a gallery that reflected real connection, gratitude, and the beauty of choosing a day that felt true to who they are as a family.

These are the kinds of moments that last far beyond the ceremony itself.