Christmas Eve wedding

If you get married without telling your parents, will they hold it against you for the rest of your life? And do you usually have Christmas plans with family? How are you telling them you're not spending Christmas with them? And are you telling his family but not yours? If his family knows and yours don't, then you might have some hurt feelings.

I can't imagine not telling my family. Sorry, I'm not your target audience, but wanted to answer.

One of my friends did this and her siblings are still mad at her for this, and it has been close to two years.

However, that doesn't mean it isn't for you, just be aware that your and his family might be upset with you.

While I ENVY you, and would LOVE to just sneak away, he and I. I did this once... years ago. It was a stupid, spontaneous thing, and my relationship with his family- esp his mother NEVER recovered. Think long and hard about it. It's worth mentioning, we were both young then- 21 and 22. It was his first wedding. Now, I am 39, and if it weren't for my dear kids, I wouldn't give a flying flip about anybody else... LOL

My parents know I have plans for Christmas that don't include coming home. His parents don't talk to us for religion reasons.

My officiants and I marry a LOT of couples in very, very small ceremonies (as in the couple and the two witnesses they need in NJ).

I tell my couples that even if they tell no one else, they should probably tell their parents unless it's a very, very difficult family situations. It doesn't mean they have to attend, but you don't want to keep a secret like this for your whole life.

Invite the parents and siblings to meet you there for your wedding or stay home and pout-- at least give them the option so there's no complaining later. If they CHOOSE not to go then that's on them, just give them the option

Its easier to ask for forgiveness than permission.. Just do it and tell them after, they may try to interfere if they know its going to happen. You are an adult and are allowed to live your life the way you want. I would elope in a second if i could convince FH to do it, but he wants a wedding, and my parents are willing to pay. So I'm along for the ride.

I agree with Celia-- unless you are coming from an abusive relationship with them, you should tell them beforehand. You don't have to invite them, but they might never truly recognize you and your FH as married if they don't hear about if until afterwards.