When it comes to the size of your wedding, bigger isn’t necessarily better. If a big, over-the-top extravaganza isn’t your cup of tea, don’t be afraid to trim that guest list down.
Intimate celebrations are easier to plan, plus they allow you to splurge on other things (like a breathtaking pair of wedding shoes). Not to mention, limiting the number of invitations you send out will allow you to channel more energy into those present, and create special, everlasting memories with each of them.
Here are 10 ideas for small weddings that’ll cover all the details of preparing for your big (but intimate) day.
1. Build Your List
So first things first, the guest list. A standard number of guests for a small wedding is around 50, but cutting down your guest list also means having to do some explaining. If people close to you are hurt that they didn’t get an invite, stay diplomatic.
Reassure them that although they are important to you, due to personal circumstances you had to reduce the number of guests.
2. Choose Your Venue Wisely
Most traditional wedding venues require you to have at least 100 attendees. Even if you have less, you’ll still end up paying for empty seats! Try to think outside-the-box and find alternative wedding venues instead, like local airbnbs or art galleries. A private home that’s warm and cozy makes the perfect locale for your romantic affair.
3. Enlist Your Friends
Bringing a personal and memorable touch to your ceremony by having a friend officiate your wedding. Aside from it being a sweet gesture, it’s also a cute way to include someone you love in your nuptials. So don’t hesitate to ask a mutual friend to get ordained and join you both at the altar.
4. Hire a Food Truck
You won’t be entertaining a large crowd, so why not skip the caterer and hire a food truck service instead? It will give your wedding a casual and relaxed touch and will be well received by your hungry guests.
5. Include Your Furry Pals
Bringing your pup along is the perfect way to make your nuptials even more loving and intimate. Since some dogs might feel overwhelmed by large crowds, a smaller wedding will make your dog feel welcomed and loved by everyone at the reception. They’re like family after all, so don’t forget to include your furry best friend!
6. Turn It Up!
Rather than having a DJ play throughout the night, consider hiring a live band to perform at the wedding. Imagine dancing away to the romantic tunes of an acoustic guitar, or the mellow melodies of a piano. Definitely a nice addition to your intimate soiree.
7. Have a Closer Seating Arrangement
Having fewer tables allows you get more creative and build a more personal seating arrangement. One big circular table will make everyone feel closer to each other and encourage conversation among guests.
8. Gather For Brunch
Rather than having an evening celebration, consider having your reception during breakfast time instead. Serve classic breakfast staples like waffles, scrambled eggs, toast, and bacon! An earlier wedding gives you the entire day to celebrate with your loved ones and still have the whole evening to enjoy alone with your partner.
9. Customize Your Favors
Give your guests a more thoughtful and personalized gift as a wedding favor. Inscribe guests’ names on a keychain or bracelet and include a cute personalized note. This is such a heart-warming way to thank your guests for attending your special day.
10. Elope!
Skip all the fuss that comes from wedding planning and simply run away together for your nuptials. Make it a romantic escapade with only you and your partner, or invite your immediate family and very close friends. After all, it’s all about enjoying this important step in your life with your most loved ones.
Got some of your own ideas for a small wedding? Let us know in the comments!
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