Weddings are often seen as a grand affair, with hundreds of guests, a lavish venue, and a budget to match. But not every couple wants or needs a big wedding. Micro weddings have become a popular option for couples who want to have a more personal and meaningful wedding experience without the stress and expense of a larger event.
We’ve put together everything you need to know about what micro weddings are, the pros and cons of having a micro wedding, and read tips and advice for planning your own micro wedding.
What is a “micro wedding”?
A micro wedding is a smaller-scale, more intimate wedding that typically has fewer than 50 guests in attendance. Unlike traditional weddings that can involve hundreds of guests, a micro wedding focuses on the couple and their closest family and friends, with a more personalized and intimate atmosphere.
Pros of Having a Micro Wedding
Intimacy
A micro wedding allows couples to spend quality time with their closest family and friends in a more intimate setting. This can make the wedding experience more personal and meaningful.
Cost-Effective
Micro weddings are generally less expensive than traditional weddings since they require fewer resources, such as catering, décor, and venue space. This can help couples save money and avoid going into debt.
Flexibility
With fewer guests, couples have more flexibility to choose unique venues and tailor the wedding experience to their preferences. This can make the wedding feel more personalized and special.
Reduced Stress
Micro weddings require less planning and coordination than larger weddings, reducing stress and allowing couples to focus on what really matters – each other and their loved ones.
Personal Wedding Photos
With fewer guests, you’ll have more time to take intimate wedding photos with your photographer. This can result in more personalized and meaningful photos that truly capture the essence of your special day.
Eco-Friendly
With growing concerns about the environmental impact of large-scale events, many couples are choosing micro weddings as a more sustainable and eco-friendly option. By having a smaller guest list and using locally sourced, sustainable materials for decorations and catering, couples can reduce their carbon footprint and minimize waste.
Cons of Having a Micro Wedding
Limited Guest List
Having a smaller wedding means that some family and friends may not be able to attend, which could lead to hurt feelings or strained relationships. Couples should carefully consider who to invite and communicate openly with those who may not be included in the guest list.
Less Formality
Micro weddings tend to be less formal than larger weddings, which can be a downside if you were hoping for a more traditional or elegant wedding. With fewer guests, you may need to adjust your expectations and plans to match the more casual and intimate atmosphere of a micro wedding.
Fewer Options
With a smaller budget and guest list, couples may have fewer options for vendors and services, limiting their choices for catering, entertainment, and décor. However, this can also be an opportunity to get creative and find unique solutions that fit their style and budget.
Still Requires Planning
While micro weddings may require less planning and coordination than larger weddings, they still require attention to detail to ensure that the day runs smoothly and meets the couple’s expectations. Couples should plan ahead and enlist the help of trusted friends or family members to ensure that everything goes according to plan.
Limited Vendor Options
Smaller weddings may not be as attractive to some vendors, such as caterers, photographers, or musicians, who may prefer larger events with bigger budgets. This can make it more difficult to find the right vendors who are willing to work with smaller weddings.
Less Social Interaction
With a smaller guest list, there may be less opportunity for social interaction and networking. While larger weddings can be great for meeting new people and building relationships, micro weddings can be more insular and intimate, which may not be suitable for those who enjoy socializing and meeting new people.
How to Plan for Your Own Micro Wedding
If you’re considering having a micro wedding, here are some tips to help you plan and prepare for your special day:
- Determine Your Guest List: Decide who you want to invite to your micro wedding and communicate with them early on to ensure their availability and interest in attending.
- Choose a Venue: Select a venue that fits your budget, style, and guest count. Consider non-traditional venues like backyards, parks, or private residences for a unique and personalized experience.
- Select Your Vendors and Services: Choose vendors and services that fit your style, budget, and preferences. This could include catering, photography, entertainment, and florals.
- Decide on Your Wedding Style and Theme: Choose a wedding style and theme that reflects your personalities and preferences. Consider incorporating personal touches, such as favorite songs or decorations, to make your micro wedding feel more unique and personalized.
- Customize Your Wedding Products: With Zazzle’s collection of customizable wedding products, you can add your own personal touch to everything from invitations and save-the-dates to favors and décor. Choose from a variety of designs created by talented artists and designers or create your own custom products to make your micro wedding truly one-of-a-kind.
- Plan for Your Wedding Ceremony and Reception: Determine the format and flow of your wedding ceremony and reception. This could include selecting music, writing your vows, and planning your menu.
- Consider Hiring a Wedding Planner: While micro weddings may require less planning and coordination than larger weddings, hiring a professional wedding planner can help ensure that your special day runs smoothly and according to plan. They can also provide valuable advice and recommendations for vendors and services.
Micro weddings are a great option for couples who want a more personal and meaningful wedding experience without the stress and expense of a larger event.
With careful planning, attention to detail, and the right personalized products and services, you can create a beautiful and memorable micro wedding that reflects your personalities and preferences.
Nicole is our Content Strategist. She enjoys long walks to Taco Bell, rollerblading into the sunset, and eating Reese’s Cups for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Find her writing about iPhone cases, holiday card messaging and even music festival tips!
