Planning your Micro Wedding
Benefits of Micro Weddings
Micro weddings, or intimate shindigs with no more than 50 folks, are all the rage lately. Let’s chat about why these smaller celebrations are awesome:
- Cozy Vibes: With fewer peeps, you can actually hang out with everyone and enjoy some quality moments. Makes for some heartwarming memories.
- Wallet-Saver: Smaller guest list means more cash in your pocket. You’ll save on the venue, grub, decor, and all those little frills. For extra cash-saving tips, peep our how to save money on a micro wedding guide.
- Tailored Magic: A smaller crowd means a more personal touch. You can create a chill vibe where everyone feels like a VIP.
- Do-What-You-Want: With fewer guests, you have the freedom to splurge on stuff that matters to you, like an amazing photographer or fancy food, making the day truly yours.
For loads more inspo, scope out our benefits of a micro wedding page.
Cost Breakdown: Traditional vs. Micro Weddings
Having a micro wedding is a solid way to keep your dollars in check while still throwing a bash to remember.
Did you know the average wedding can set you back around $35,000 in 2024? Micro weddings can seriously cut that down.
Here’s the cash breakdown:
| Budget Item | Traditional Wedding | Micro Wedding |
|---|---|---|
| Venue | $15,000 | $4,000 |
| Catering | $10,000 | $2,000 |
| Photography | $3,000 | $2,500 |
| Decorations | $5,000 | $1,000 |
| Total | $33,000 | $9,500 |
Source: The Knot
- Venue: Small guest list? Perfect excuse to get creative! Consider hosting at your backyard or a quaint eatery nearby.
- Catering: Stick to a close-knit dinner party or communal meal. Less formality, more Yum!
- Photography: Splurge a bit more here. After all, you’ll wanna remember these smiles & happy tears forever.
- Decorations: Get crafty! DIY or keep it simple with decor that feels just right for you.
For a deep dive into costs, check out our micro wedding cost breakdown page.
By keeping these pointers in your back pocket, you can roll out an epic micro wedding that’s perfectly you on both vibe and budget.
Choosing the Perfect Venue for Your Micro Wedding
You’re getting married, so let the venue hunt begin. With a micro wedding, the right spot makes all the difference, whether you’re thinking cozy inside or something a bit more open and airy.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Venues: Which is Right for You?
Indoor or outdoor – each brings its own charm and matches your wedding dreams in a special way.
Indoor Venues
Indoor spots give you control over uncontrollable things like weather. Plus, they’re snug as a bug, perfect for close-knit celebrations. Some favorites include:
- Private dining rooms in boutique hotels
- Charming churches
- Elegant restaurants
- Swanky rooftops
Why go indoor?
- No weather worries
- All the handy stuff’s nearby
- Decor and lighting magic happen here
- Comfy, no matter the season
Outdoor Venues
Mother Nature’s playground is the way to go for stunning photo backdrops and spacious freedom. Perfect for those who dream of al fresco weddings, think:
Why step outside?
- Nature’s eye-candy for photos
- Room to stretch and play
- One-of-a-kind vibe
- Magical sunsets for tying the knot
Unique Venue Ideas for Your Special Day
Want a wedding that’s off the beaten path? Micro weddings are your ticket to standout venues filled with character and uniqueness.
Private Gardens and Backyards
Turning your own backyard or a local garden into wedding wonderland keeps things super personal. Plus, it’s a great way to get crafty with the decor.
Boutique Hotels
Say your “I dos” in a boutique hotel and blend style with coziness. These gems offer unique designs, top-notch service, and an exclusive feel.
Airbnbs and Rental Homes
Why not rent a gorgeous Airbnb or vacation home? It could be the picturesque, homey setting you’re after for you and your closest peeps.
Rooftop Terraces
Want that big-city flair? Hit up a rooftop with killer skyline views. Perfect for couples who want something fresh and modern.
Need more tips for your micro wedding? Check out our micro wedding planning guide and dive into our micro wedding cost breakdown. Whether you fancy indoors, the great outdoors, or something totally unique, the right venue will lock in those golden memories on your big day.
Rock Your Micro Wedding Day Schedule
Nailing your micro wedding schedule means setting up a day that’s smooth like butter, whether you’re stretching it out or keeping it short and sweet. We’re here to show you some cool timeline options to fit your vibe.
All-Day Extravaganza – 12-Hour Timeline
For the couple who wants to wrap their arms around every moment, a full 12-hour day is the way to go. You’ve got time for glam time, photoshoots, vows, and the big party bash. Check this lineup:
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Makeover Magic |
| 9:30 AM | Sneaky Peek |
| 10:00 AM | Squad & Smile Session |
| 11:00 AM | Walk the Aisle |
| 12:00 PM | Say Cheese – Family Pics |
| 1:00 PM | Munch Brunch |
| 3:00 PM | Sip & Chill |
| 4:00 PM | Feasting Time |
| 6:00 PM | Toasty Talk |
| 7:00 PM | Boogie Down |
| 10:00 PM | Goodbye Wave |
Wanna dig deeper into all-day wedding fun? Peek into our full-on micro wedding guide.
Chill Half-Day Bash – 8-Hour Timeline
If you’re into a relaxed yet special affair, an 8-hour slot fits like a glove. Ideal for morning ceremonies with a yummy lunch or evening vows leading to a snazzy dinner.
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 10:00 AM | Glam Start |
| 11:30 AM | Sneak Peek & Snapshots |
| 12:00 PM | Walk of Love |
| 1:00 PM | Picture Perfect Hour |
| 2:00 PM | Lunch Feast |
| 4:00 PM | Sweets & Chat |
| 5:00 PM | Dance & Jam |
| 6:00 PM | Fond Farewell |
For more planning fun, follow our micro wedding tips.
Short & Sweet – 4-Hour Timeline
When you want it cozy and intimate, the 4-hour run is just the ticket. Perfect for a quick ceremony followed by a simple gathering.
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 11:00 AM | Vow Time |
| 11:30 AM | Snap That Moment |
| 12:00 PM | Light Lunch |
| 1:00 PM | Sweet Treat & Cheers |
| 2:00 PM | Bye-Bye Breezy |
This grab-and-go timeline hits all the highlights with chill vibes. For a fun twist, check our piece on hair-straightening tricks to spice up your short celebration.
Match your schedule with your style to keep your wedding easy-breezy. Get more ideas and cash-saving tips from our budget micro wedding planning and cost breakdown insights.
Guest List and Personalization
Planning the ultimate micro wedding timeline means zooming in on those super important choices, like who to invite and how to sprinkle in that extra dose of you and your partner. We’ve got the lowdown on making those decisions a breeze.
Creating Your Ideal Guest List
When your squad is tiny, every invite counts. Micro weddings are all about those you hold dear—maybe 10 to 50 guests tops (Your Wedding Photographer). It’s about making sure you’ve got only your nearest and dearest celebrating your big day.
| Guest Category | Who They Are |
|---|---|
| Immediate Family | Moms, dads, siblings, grandpas, and grandmas |
| Closest Friends | The ride-or-die crew |
| Special Mentors | Those who’ve made a real mark on your life |
Having a small group isn’t just cozy; it’s the key to some real quality time with the folks who matter. Bigger weddings can be all hustle, less heart (Emma Thurgood Weddings). By keeping it small, you’re setting the stage for deep connections and unforgettable moments. Want to make your micro wedding one for the memory books? Check out our tips here.
Personalizing Your Micro Wedding Experience
Micro weddings are your blank canvas to paint your love story. They let you go big on the small stuff, making every detail a page out of your unique tale.
Here are some ways to make it all about you:
- Cool Invitations: Design invites that feel just like you.
- Heartfelt Vows: Craft personal promises that hit right in the feels.
- Signature Cocktails: Shake up drinks that shout “you.”
- Themed Decor: Set the scene with decor that vibes with your style, whether it’s boho, chic, or all about the beach.
| Personalized Element | Ideas |
|---|---|
| Invitations | Handwritten notes, custom artsy flair |
| Vows | Stories shared with tears and laughter |
| Cocktails | Mixes with quirky names |
| Decor | Centerpieces that tell a story, unique backdrops |
Got more questions about making it super special? We’ve got you covered here.
Micro weddings give you the chance to celebrate your love story exactly how you picture it, mixing personal bits with a close-knit vibe. Remember, every decision—from the guest list to the tiniest table detail—makes the day unforgettable. Dive into more ideas with our guides on micro wedding ideas backyard, micro wedding ideas barn, and micro wedding ideas airbnb.
Selecting Vendors and Services
Picking the right folks for your micro wedding squad is like finding the perfect band for your garage concert. With a smaller crowd, you want each service, from snapping pics to saying “I do,” to be top-notch and personal.
Choosing the Right Photographer for Your Micro Wedding
Snagging the right photographer is key for an event like this. You don’t want just anyone with a camera; you need someone who respects your intimate setup. Their shooting style should vibe with you and fit within what you’re cool spending (Emma Thurgood Weddings). A great photographer will dig the specialness of your cozy celebration.
Here’s what to chew over while shopping for your micro wedding picture-taker:
Photography Style:
- Straight-up Traditional
- Candid Snapshots
- Artsy Fartsy
Budget and Packages:
- Hourly Feels
- All-Day Affair
- Extra Goodies (like albums or prints)
Hand over a clear schedule to make sure your photog captures all your epic moments. Check out our ideas at micro wedding photo ideas.
| Factor | Choices |
|---|---|
| Style | Traditional, Candid, Artsy |
| Packages | Hourly, All-Day, Extra Goodies |
| Budget | $500 – $3000 |
Selecting the Perfect Officiant
Settling on an officiant is like picking the lead singer for your band. Whether you’re sticking with a seasoned pro, a spiritual leader, or your buddy doing it, you want those vows and vibes tailored to you, none of that cookie-cutter stuff (Emma Thurgood Weddings).
Think about these when choosing your officiant:
Type of Ceremony:
- Faithful or not-so
- Official Doc Signing
- Friends or Fam Step Up
Personalization:
- Write Your Own Vows
- Quirky Stuff You Love
Experience and Comfort:
- Been there, done that
- Talks without freezing
Make sure you chat about how you see the ceremony going and whether the officiant’s down to take requests. For more cool ideas, take a peek at how to personalize a micro wedding ceremony.
| Factor | Choices |
|---|---|
| Ceremony Type | Faithful, Official, Friends/Fam |
| Personalization | Own Vows, Quirky Stuff |
| Experience | Been There, Talks Smoothly |
Picking your photo person and ceremony leader is more than just checking their calendar and fee. You want peeps who get why you’re having a micro wedding. For other handy tips, hit up our micro wedding planning guide.
Location and Time Considerations
Picking the perfect spot and time for your micro wedding isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a chance to set the scene for an unforgettable day. Let’s make sure your celebration is dreamy, cozy, and ready for those picture-perfect moments.
Season and Time of Year
Got a favorite time of year? Let that steer your wedding planning! Here’s a little help choosing the season with the right vibe for you and your crew:
- Spring and Summer: Great for natural backdrops with lush greens and colorful blooms popping up everywhere. Think about hanging out at places like gardens, beaches, or near lakes where the sun’s usually on your side. Just remember, summer can bring the heat and those pesky mosquitoes.
- Fall: What’s not to love about the warm hues and snug feels of autumn? Try charming barns or magical woods for that rustic vibe. As the leaves change in October and November, they make for a beautiful backdrop.
- Winter: Cozy up inside for a close-knit celebration. Hotels, restaurants, and rooftop spots with city views are perfect choices. Just ensure your guests are warm and maybe surprise them with some hot cocoa or mulled wine.
Think through how you want your wedding to feel and match it with the right season. For more cool venue ideas, check out our guide on unique venues.
Daylight Considerations for Photography
Daylight can be your best friend or your worst enemy when it comes to photos. Wanna look your best? Here are some sweet tips:
- Golden Hour: Plan the big moments like when you first lock eyes or take a romantic shot during that magic time—an hour after sunrise or just before sunset. It’s like natural Insta filters on your pics.
- Midday Sun: This time can get all up in your face leaving weird shadows. If you’re getting hitched around then, look for shady spots or indoor settings to chill the light out a bit.
- Sunrise and Sunset: Photographers often suggest working around these times for more intimate, jaw-dropping shots (check out Tori Kelner Photography). These times drape everything in soft light, bringing the beauty of your venue to life.
Design your day with these lighting tweaks in mind. Need scrapping the numbers? Here’s a handy guide to optimal lighting times across the seasons:
| Season | Sunrise | Sunset | Golden Hour (AM) | Golden Hour (PM) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | 6:00 AM | 7:30 PM | 7:00 AM | 6:30 PM |
| Summer | 5:30 AM | 8:30 PM | 6:30 AM | 7:30 PM |
| Fall | 6:30 AM | 6:00 PM | 7:30 AM | 5:00 PM |
| Winter | 7:30 AM | 4:30 PM | 8:30 AM | 3:30 PM |
Playing it smart with your wedding time ensures your photographer captures those keep-forever shots. Curious about finding the right photographer who’ll focus on your small and cozy vibe? We got you.
If you’re just getting started with planning, jump into our micro wedding planning guide.
Special Touches and Details
Adding Personalized Elements
A micro wedding is your golden ticket to sprinkle some personality all over your shindig. A smaller guest list doesn’t mean your big day should be any less memorable or special. In fact, it gives you more wiggle room to add those little personalized bits that scream “you guys.”
Check these out if you’re scratching your head looking for personalized flair:
- Custom Cake: Got a story to tell? Let your cake spill the beans, whether it’s through its flavor, the way it’s decorated, or those fun toppers.
- Handmade Vow Books: Write your promises in lovely, personal vow books. It’s like keeping a piece of your heart bound together forever.
- Floral Crowns: Give a nod to romance and whimsy. Picture yourself and your bridesmaids wearing dreamy floral crowns.
- Mini Picnic: Who needs a big bash when you can have a cute little picnic for two? Pack your favorite goodies and drinks.
- Custom Signage: Want to lead the way or share a thought? Make signs with quotes that mean something special to you.
- Unique Guest Book: Swap out the usual guest book for something cool like a photo album or a drawn illustration (Tori Kelner Photography).
Thirsty for more ideas on making your ceremony truly yours? Mosey over to our page on how to personalize a micro wedding ceremony.
Sharing the News with Loved Ones
Even though your micro wedding is a tiny yet shining affair, shouting it out to your loved ones is a must. Here’s how to let everyone in on the good news:
- Physical Announcement Cards: Why not send out snazzy cards to spill the beans to your nearest and dearest?
- Virtual Announcement: Go social! Use your favorite platform or pop up a wedding website to spread the joy on a bigger scale.
- Plan a Later Celebration: Thinking of throwing a larger bash? Cool idea. Plan a festival of love later on where even more amigos and familia can join the fun (Tori Kelner Photography).
Sprinkle these special touches into your micro wedding and it’ll feel both cozy and fancy. If you’re after more tips and tricks to make your wedding unforgettable, wander over to our article all about micro wedding planning tips.
