What is a Micro Wedding? And How to Plan One
While micro weddings aren’t exactly breaking news, they’ve definitely risen in popularity—especially since the COVID-19 pandemic forced many couples to opt for smaller-scale celebrations in lieu of traditional 200-guest extravaganzas.
But what exactly is considered a “micro wedding”? And how does it differ from traditional weddings and elopements?
In this blog, we answer those questions and offer our advice for managing expectations, staying true to your wedding vision, and successfully planning an epic micro wedding.
What is a Micro Wedding?
Most wedding planning authorities define a micro wedding as a celebration with a guest count of 50 or fewer.
In most cases, couples invite immediate family and close friends only. With such a small guest list, micro weddings are intimate by nature. However, they generally flow much like traditional weddings—just downsized a bit.
Elopement vs. Micro Wedding vs. Traditional Wedding
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Traditional Weddings: Often including as many as 150 to 300 guests, traditional weddings are typically more formal celebrations and require larger venue spaces than elopements and micro weddings.
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Elopements: Historically a more spur-of-the-moment celebration, an elopement involves just the couple and one or two witnesses (usually family members or friends), a photographer, an officiant, and maybe a florist. Elopements also don’t typically include a reception of any kind.
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Micro Weddings: While not quite as private as an elopement, a micro wedding is essentially a small-scale version of a conventional wedding. Couples who opt for micro weddings often still observe many (if not all) of the most common wedding traditions (like cocktail hour, dinner reception, and dancing).
Photo Credit: From the Hip Photo
Benefits of Micro Weddings
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Cost savings: The major advantage of a micro wedding? You can save loads of money and STILL get your Pinterest-perfect wedding.
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More intimate & meaningful experience: Since you’re celebrating only with your “nearest and dearest,” you’ll be able to connect with loved ones you haven’t seen in a while (for more than just 1 minute).
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More candid photos: With a smaller guest list, your photographer will be able to capture special moments shared with every guest.
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Reduced stress: Wedding planning will feel much simpler since there are fewer people to plan for—not to mention the limited set-up and tear-down requirements.
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Greater flexibility in venue & layout: You have your choice between smaller more intimate spaces and larger venues designed according to your unique vision.
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Ability to splurge on details: You’re more likely to be able to afford more personal, unique table settings, décor, wedding favors, etc.
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Fewer people to please: Choosing a smaller guest list can help you avoid disappointing guests with conflicting opinions and preferences.
Photo Credit: Rachel Case Photography
Create Your Guest List Thoughtfully
You have limited seats available, so spend time carefully considering who you really want to be there with you on your big day. Recognize that there may be some hurt feelings, but don’t let those pressures sway you from planning your dream wedding.
If you’re particularly concerned about certain family members or friends being upset, reach out to them personally to explain your decision.
Decide on Your Aesthetic (First)
After the guest list, the very next thing you need to consider is your specific wedding vision. This will inform all other choices down the line, from your venue and vendors to florals and decorations. Remember, with fewer people to accommodate, you have more freedom to splurge on detail items like centerpiece arrangements, table settings, and lighting fixtures. So, let your imagination run wild as you decide on the vibe for your big day.
Clearly Define Your Budget
If you’re opting for a micro wedding because of a limited budget, this step is crucial.
Consider all of the potential wedding costs and rank them in order of importance. For example, if booking a good photographer or a stunning venue is more important to you than offering an elaborate seated dinner, maybe opt for a lower-cost cocktail reception.
Then, once you make your budget, monitor your spending closely as you continue through the wedding planning process.
Consider a Weekday Wedding
Some wedding photographers and vendors may not be available for a micro wedding during peak wedding days (Fridays or weekends). By choosing a nontraditional weekday wedding, you may just be able to secure all of your first preferences—and get a good rate from venues and vendors! Explore the other benefits of weekday weddings.
Select the Perfect Micro Wedding Venue
Micro weddings open up a world of possibilities regarding your venue, so make sure you find one that truly matches your wedding vision. Even better yet, select a venue in a location you want to visit and make it a multi-day getaway instead of a one-day affair.
Don’t Forget Your Wedding Website
Even though you’re only inviting a handful of people, a wedding website is still a valuable tool for communicating important details with your guests. It gives you a place to include the link to your wedding registry, venue information, dress code details, and more.
Plus, through platforms like The Knot and Zola, creating a website has never been easier!
Send Out Prompt Save-the-Dates & Invitations
The sooner you send out those save-the-dates, the more likely you’ll be to ensure everyone on your guest list can make it to your wedding, particularly if you are dead set on having those select few loved ones there with you. Make sure you clearly communicate WHO you are inviting to the party. Do they get a plus one? Are children allowed?
Feel Free to Choose Non-Traditional Wedding Attire
The choice to go micro often stems from a desire for a more personal wedding experience. Why not tailor other aspects (like your wedding attire and dress code) to your unique flavor, as well?
Don’t be afraid to choose something out of the box. Ditch the white floor-length gown and embrace your personal style and flair with a colored wedding dress, shorter gown, or jumpsuit. More often than not, this will actually save you money, too!
Get Creative with Décor, Party Favors, & Cuisine
With more space in your budget to splurge on the finer details, you’ll more easily be able to afford elegant table settings, elaborate decorative elements, personalized party favors, and immersive culinary experiences.
In our opinion, these choices are what make a micro wedding so fun!
Don’t Skimp on Photography
Photography is one of the only factors that shouldn’t change a whole lot, whether you have a 25-guest or 200-guest wedding. Hiring an experienced photographer is the only way to ensure you capture all of the special moments of your big day.
Photo Credit: Bree Willoscroft Photography
Book Your Micro Wedding at Spruce Mountain Ranch
Whether you’re imagining a stunning ceremony in the great Colorado outdoors or an intimate celebration in a cozy, lodge-style venue, Spruce Mountain Ranch has numerous micro wedding options for you! Explore our wedding venues and services in greater detail or book a FREE personalized tour today.
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