Hi Eve,

It is your life, not theirs. In their excitement about their daughter getting married, it doesn't sound like they are considering what their daughter wants and needs.

If you find it hard to communicate, maybe write them a letter / assertive (gentle and kind, but firm and standing your ground) note. Like "Mom, Dad, I understand that you're happy for me and want to be a part of my wedding. But me and my fiancé want to elope." And then list the reasons why it's important to you. Anyway, good luck. Let us know how it goes.

PS: are you nervous that you might lose your cool with them? Or just don't like confrontation? I hope you know that your reasons for wanting to elope are valid. Not being financially stressed and also being able to have the wedding that will make you happy, because it's your wedding, is also important and makes complete sense!