Looking to do something different for your wedding? Or, just stressed by the idea of a huge wedding? There’s good news: Micro weddings are making a comeback.
Or maybe micro weddings never really went away, and people are learning to let go of other people’s expectations and embrace what they really want out of their wedding. Instead of a giant, expensive, and potentially overwhelming wedding experience, brides and grooms are turning to simpler, micro weddings.
What is a micro wedding? How is it different from eloping?
A micro wedding is a wedding with no more than 50 people – including the bride and groom! While eloping usually just involves the bride, groom, and a witness or two, a micro wedding is a great option for those who don’t want to discard tradition and fanfare completely.
What makes micro weddings really wonderful is the opportunity they offer. Because they’re smaller, you have more flexibility in your price point, your venue, and your creativity.
11 Ideas for Micro Weddings in 2024:
Skip the Bridesmaids and Groomsmen
If you’re worried about who you’d invite to be a bridesmaid or stressed about having an uneven number of bridesmaids and groomsmen, just skip it all together! Instead, invite your loved ones as guests only – and if you need extra support you can still ask them to help with key details.
Ditch the Bachelorette/Bachelor Parties
This is great for those who don’t like traditional bachelor/bachelorette parties, for anyone planning in a short timeframe, or for someone who doesn’t love being the center of attention. If you don’t want to skip the party altogether, opt for a “jack and jill” party where both the bridesmaids and groomsmen or friends of both bride and groom attend.
Take Over a Resort
For a small gathering, find a lovely destination like a snazzy airbnb, unique hotel, or sweet resort and rent out the entire place. Imagine celebrating your marriage with your loved ones in a chateau in France! It will be an intimate experience you’ll never forget.
Have a Backyard Bash
For a more relaxed wedding experience, have your wedding at home in your backyard. You can rent or build an arbor to stand under and customize everything to your style. Depending on how many guests you have, make your own food and cake ahead of time or cater from your favorite restaurant!
Host in a Botanical Garden
Plant lovers will enjoy a cozy experience having their wedding at a botanical garden, getting close with nature while spending time with their dearest loved ones. Want a similar vibe but indoors? Have your wedding in a museum or a historic estate home.
Go With a Theme
For theme party lovers, the micro wedding is for you. Invite your guests to dress in costume or specific colors and let the day be as magical and whimsical as your heart desires. Let your imagination run with this idea!
Make it a Surprise
Have you ever heard of people gathering for a fancy dinner party, only to learn it was secretly a wedding? If you’re spontaneous, creative, or just love surprises, make your micro wedding a secret and have a big reveal!
Have it on a Weekday
For those who don’t care about a weekend wedding, save money and break the mold by having your micro wedding on a weekday. However, know that this is simpler when all of your guests are local!
Make it a Brunch Event
If you’re more of a morning person than a night owl, or you just prefer breakfast foods, you might just love having a wedding brunch. Have your micro wedding ceremony in the earlier part of the morning and then celebrate with a lavish brunch. Mimosas and waffles for everyone!
Focus on Sustainability
Smaller weddings mean a smaller environmental impact. It’s easier to go green and have a plastic-free or zero-waste wedding when you have a smaller guest list or host your wedding at home.
Make it All About You
I know, weddings ARE about the bride and groom. But with a micro wedding, you have more control over the details. Focus on what makes you “you”, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience! For more inspiration, feel free to explore our wedding blog posts or use our wedding planning tools.
