When it comes to planning a wedding, there are typically two trains of thought. You can either invite everyone you know and have a large ceremony or keep things simple and elope, just you and your beau.
Over the last few years, a third wedding format has become popular: micro weddings. This style of wedding is larger than an elopement but smaller than hundreds of guests. Keep reading to learn what a micro wedding is and why more couples are opting for this happy medium.
What is a Micro Wedding
A micro wedding is a small gathering of twenty-five to fifty guests. It allows couples to celebrate with loved ones on a smaller scale and still incorporate traditional wedding elements like a ceremony and reception.
Why the recent rise in popularity? Many couples ditched big ceremonies during the pandemic and opted for smaller gatherings due to health and safety reasons. Additionally, people are recognizing the unique benefits that this smaller ceremony provides.
Pros of Planning a Micro Wedding
Whether it’s for budgetary reasons, social anxiety, or environmental concerns, there are many reasons to choose a micro wedding. Here are the top five benefits of a micro wedding:
It’s intimate. Instead of inviting everyone you (and your parents) know, a micro wedding encourages you to prioritize the people that matter. With a fifty-person maximum, micro weddings typically include immediate family, close extended family, and a few important friends. This allows you to spend more time enjoying the celebration with loved ones rather than making the rounds at your reception all night long.
It’s cheaper. Generally speaking, planning a micro wedding is cheaper than planning a large ceremony and reception. In 2023, the average cost of a micro wedding was $10,777.56 according to wedding jeweler Shane Co. Less guests means less associated costs for food, beverages, favors, and the venue. It’s important to note that this is not always the case, though! If budget is a major factor in opting for a micro wedding, keep a close eye on your spending to make sure you’re actually saving money.
It allows for more creativity. With a large wedding, couples are limited to certain venues that can accommodate their guest list. A smaller wedding allows for more flexibility and opens the door to creative venue options like your favorite local restaurant, neighborhood park, or even your backyard.
It’s easier to plan. Compared to a wedding with hundreds of guests, a micro wedding can be planned in less time. Of course, this will depend on your vision for the day and the vendors you select.
It creates less waste. Micro weddings have a smaller environmental impact than mega weddings. This is an important consideration if sustainability is a priority on your special day!
Cons of Planning a Micro Wedding
While there are many benefits of planning a micro wedding, it might not be right for everyone.
If you’ve always dreamed of a big ceremony and love throwing a good party, you might feel limited by the size of a micro wedding. On the other hand, if you don’t love the spotlight and would rather celebrate with your fiance than kiss in front of mutual acquaintances, you might be better served with an elopement.
Just remember: there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to your wedding day. Think about what feels most authentic to you as a couple and prioritize that.
Planning a Micro Wedding
Whether you’re planning a micro wedding or large ceremony, Eventective can help. From a custom wedding website to a guest list manager and a comprehensive vendor library, we have all the resources you need to plan your special day.
