Small weddings are becoming more and more popular, and for good reason! They can be less stressful and more intimate than traditional weddings.
If you’re thinking of having a small wedding, there are a few things you need to know in order to make sure it goes smoothly. In this blog post, we will discuss the basics of planning a small wedding. From choosing the right venue to arranging catering – let’s get started!
Featured wedding invitation: Fresh Botanical
Three Main Benefits of Intimate and Small Weddings
When you plan a small wedding, there are several advantages. These include:
- Small Weddings are Cost-Effective
Of course, when you have fewer people attending your wedding, it can reduce the overall cost of the event. You can choose more budget-friendly options such as hiring a smaller venue, catering for fewer guests and selecting cheaper decorations and favors.
- Small Weddings are More Intimate
When you have a micro-wedding, it makes the event more intimate and enjoyable for your guests. Everyone (including the two of you!) has time to mingle and talk without feeling overwhelmed by too many people.
- You Can Create More Personalized Moments
With fewer guests, you can create a much more personalized experience for each guest, such as having specific menu items for them or selecting seating arrangements to ensure that everyone is comfortable.
How to Have a Small and Simple Wedding
Follow this checklist to begin planning your small wedding:
- Select the Guest List
Before your plan anything else, you need to know approximately how many people will be invited. Consider who is integral to your special day and make sure everyone feels included.
- Choose a Venue
The next step in planning your small wedding is choosing a venue. This can be anywhere from a backyard to a restaurant or chapel depending on the size of your guest list. There are lots of wedding venues that even cater to micro-weddings!
- Create Your Budget
Next, you need to create a budget so that you know how much money you have to spend on your wedding. Having fewer guests can mean lower costs, but you might also want to indulge in details you may not have been able to afford for a much larger wedding. Splurging on higher-end food and drinks is really popular for smaller weddings.
- Hire a Professional
It’s important to hire a professional for help with the details if you don’t have the time or energy to do everything yourself. A wedding planner can help organize everything from start to finish, ensuring that your day is as stress-free and special as possible.
- Arrange Catering
Finally, you’ll need to arrange food and drinks for your guests. If you’re having a small wedding, you can keep it simple or have an over-the-top dining experience. Family-style meals are popular for small weddings and keep thing feels intimate and cozy.
Tips on Planning a Small Wedding
Read on for our best advice and tips on creating a memorable wedding day:
- Keep the Atmosphere Intimate
A small wedding is all about connecting with the people you love and making sure everyone feels included. So, focus on creating an intimate atmosphere that encourages conversations and connection between guests.
- Focus on What Matters
When planning a small wedding, it’s important to remember what is most important to you. Don’t sweat the small stuff, and focus on components that will make your day memorable for you and your guests.
- Think Outside the Box
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to planning a wedding. Get creative with ideas, such as selecting unique venues (like a library!) or hosting an outdoor event.
- Hire a Wedding Planner
Even if it’s small, planning a wedding isn’t easy. If you’re feeling overwhelmed with planning, consider hiring a wedding planner or professional who can help take the stress out of the process.
By following these tips on how to plan a small wedding, you can ensure that your special day is everything you dreamed it would be. Remember that at the end of the day, there is no right or wrong way to celebrate your love. So, take the time to create a special and intimate event that will be memorable for you, your partner and all of your guests.
Small Wedding Ceremony Seating Ideas
When you have a small wedding ceremony, you can have some fun with the seating arrangements. Here are some great ideas of ways to set up the seating at your mirco-sized wedding:
- Have small round tables set up so that each group of guests can sit together.
- Provide chairs for elderly or disabled guests.
- Set up a small stage in the corner of the room with seating around it where you exchange vows.
- Ask your venue if they offer small, intimate ceremony spaces to make the event more special.
- Use small benches or couches for seating instead of traditional chairs.
- String cafe lights around the ceremony space to give a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
- Set up an arch or altar where you can exchange your vows.
- Rent small bistro tables so that guests can enjoy drinks and light snacks during the ceremony.
- Consider having small chairs or stools set up around a fire pit for an outdoor ceremony with a cozy atmosphere.
- Rent small tents or canopies to add more dimension to your small ceremony space.
- Use small potted plants as decorations and seating markers instead of traditional floral arrangements.
- Have small tables set up with individual chairs which guests can use during the ceremony.
- Utilize small spaces like balconies or porches for a more intimate atmosphere.
- Use small string lights to create an enchanting and romantic ceremony space.
- No matter what ideas you decide on, your small wedding ceremony will be an unforgettable experience for everyone involved!
Small Wedding Venue Ideas
Hosting a small wedding means you don’t have to get married in a traditional venue, like a large hotel. Instead, think differently and scout out non-traditional wedding venues:
- A Local Park
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, then consider using a local park as your wedding venue. This can be especially romantic if your ceremony is conducted under a gazebo or near a tranquil lake.
- A Private Home
Invite guests to your own home and turn it into a romantic event space. If your home isn’t big enough, consider asking a close family member or friend if they would be willing to lend their space for the day.
- A Farm
If you’re looking for something rustic and charming, then a farm may be the perfect venue. Look for farms with outdoor spaces that can accommodate your guests while still providing a sense of intimacy.
- A Community Space
If you’re looking for an affordable option, consider renting out a local hall or community center. This is usually much cheaper than traditional wedding venues and can be decorated to match your style.
- An Outdoor Venue
For something more adventurous and unique, consider hosting your wedding outdoors. Look for venues with stunning garden settings or picturesque views that will make your special day even more memorable.
No matter which venue you choose, keep in mind that the goal of a small wedding is to create an atmosphere of intimacy and warmth. So, when selecting your venue, think about how you can make the most of your space and create an atmosphere that is truly special for you and your guests.
Top Reasons to Plan a Small Wedding
Does the idea of having a small wedding have you breathing easier already? There are so many reasons we love small weddings:
- Cost Savings
One of the primary advantages of planning a small wedding is that it can drastically reduce the cost. You will be able to save money on catering, venue rentals and other expenses.
- Intimacy
A small wedding is perfect for couples who want to make sure that their closest family and friends are present. This type of event allows everyone to truly connect and enjoy each other’s company.
- Flexibility
When planning a small wedding, you can get creative with ideas that may not be possible with larger events. Think outside the box for venues and activities that will make your day special and memorable.
- Stress Reduction
Planning a large event can be overwhelming, but with a smaller wedding you will have fewer details to worry about. This allows you to enjoy your planning process and truly savor the momentous occasion.
- More Quality Time
A small wedding allows everyone to spend quality time together and really appreciate the joy of the occasion. You won’t have to run around the room trying to say hello to everyone, and you can focus on having meaningful conversations with your guests.
Remember – a small wedding can be just as memorable, if not more so, than a traditional wedding. By choosing the right venue and planning ahead, you can create an event that is intimate and special for you and your guests. Keep these tips in mind to make sure that your small wedding goes off without a hitch!
