Over the last few years, an interesting trend has occurred in the wedding industry. More and more couples are opting for smaller, intimate ceremonies over big bridal bashes. This trend likely stems from rising wedding costs, an increase in non-traditional marriages, and the desire to have a low-stress celebration.
For those considering a smaller ceremony, elopements and micro weddings are two popular options. Let’s explore the difference between these wedding styles and how to know which is right for you.
The difference between an elopement and a micro wedding
While elopements and micro weddings share some similarities, they are actually quite different from one another. For one, elopements have been around far longer, allegedly dating back to the fourteenth century. Couples would marry in secret to avoid the fate of an arranged marriage. Micro weddings, on the other hand, only recently popularized during the COVD-19 pandemic as couples prioritized smaller, safer ceremonies.
At its core, an elopement is when a couple gets married in a private ceremony, typically with one witness and a wedding officiant. Some people also consider a wedding with less than ten guests as an elopement. A micro wedding is slightly larger, often with twenty-five to fifty guests.
Now that you know the difference between these two wedding styles, here are five questions to help you choose between an elopement and a micro wedding.
What’s your dream wedding vibe?
First, close your eyes and think about your special day. Is it quiet and romantic or loud and filled with joy? Is it relaxing and laid back or an activity-filled affair? Does it reflect you and your beau or the latest wedding trends?
If you’re envisioning a quiet and relaxing ceremony that reflects your relationship, an elopement might be a good option. While a micro wedding can still be romantic and laid back, the addition of family and friends adds a louder dynamic and necessitates a more structured schedule.
What’s your wedding budget?
Next, consider your budget. While micro weddings and elopements are both considerably more affordable than the average size wedding, it doesn’t mean they’re necessarily cheap. In 2023, micro weddings cost around $11,000. Elopements can range anywhere from $10 to $10,000 plus, depending on your location and if you choose to hire vendors like an elopement planner or photographer.
If money’s tight, an elopement is the most cost-effective way to get married; however, you can get creative and plan a micro wedding on a budget if that’s what your heart desires.
Who do you want to invite?
Now it’s time to think about your guest list. For many couples, this is the biggest deciding factor as guest lists can be hard to narrow down. How many people are in both of your families and social circles? Are you close with extended family members? How important is it to celebrate together?
If you don’t want to hurt feelings, a micro wedding is a nice way to include close friends and family without feeling the need to invite everyone you know. But, if family dynamics are challenging and you want to avoid the added stress, an elopement can be a sweet way to celebrate just between you two (and perhaps a guest of honor).
When do you want to get married?
It’s also important to consider your timeline. Do you want a long or short engagement? An elopement requires less planning than a micro wedding and can be thrown together with short notice.
Where do you want to get married?
Then, think about the location of your special day. Since elopements are limited to a handful of people, they can take place virtually anywhere — at the courthouse, in a park, even on top of a mountain! Micro weddings, however, require a more formalized setting to accommodate up to fifty guests.
Think about your favorite places and things to do together as a couple. If you want to celebrate at your favorite restaurant, you can host an intimate micro wedding for a small group. If you love morning walks on the beach, make a plan to elope on your next weekend away.
Planning a micro wedding or elopement
At the end of the day, there is no right or wrong answer — only what feels right to you and your partner. We hope these prompts help you think through the pros and cons of elopements and micro weddings to choose the one that’s right for you.
Rachel Kauffman is a Detroit-based content writer, bookworm, and cat mom to two feisty felines.
