The ManicaPost
THERE are so many perks to having a small wedding. Not only does having a fewer number of guests cut down on wedding costs, but it also allows you and your guests to have more intimate social interactions.
Having a small wedding gives you the ability to get really creative with themes and seating charts, allowing you to leave a more personal touch that truly reflects you and your love. You’ll be able to create a relaxing and enjoyable environment for everyone.
If you are considering having a small wedding and are in need of some inspiration, check out these small wedding ideas for the perfect intimate occasion. Once you find the idea that works for you, you’ll be itching to start planning and send out some adorable save the dates.
Choose a small, non-traditional venue
Not having to fit hundreds of guests under one roof means that you are free to get creative with your venue. Consider getting married where you and your partner first met, like a coffee shop or library. This will make your day even more sentimental and meaningful.
City hall wedding
Avoid the costs of a traditional wedding venue by getting married at city hall. Be sure to check the maximum number of guests when you are setting your date so you can determine who to invite (and make sure to include your photographer!).
Destination wedding
Destination weddings are smaller in nature since many guests won’t be able to easily attend a wedding that’s far away. Perhaps you and your honey have a location you’re both dying to travel to. If so, this would be the perfect opportunity to cross it off your bucket lists. Plus you won’t need to go far for your honeymoon.
Backyard wedding
Having a backyard wedding is a simple way to celebrate you and your partner’s love out of the comfort of your own home. Place tables and chairs under a canopy decorated with string lights and greenery for your guests to eat and socialize. You can even make a dance floor on the lawn with recycled wood pallets.
Make welcome gifts or wedding Favours
Inviting just a few people frees up your budget to get creative with wedding favours. Treat guests to homemade pastries, preserves or granola or their own mug filled with coffee and tea.
Get creative with your seating plan
Fewer seats make it easier to get creative with your seating arrangement. Play with different shapes or form a spiral aisle to walk down with the officiator in the centre.
Make invitations more personal
Make your friends and family feel even more appreciated by calling each of them personally to invite them to your special day in addition to sending a formal invite. Try sending guests personalised champagne flutes and save the date for a creative touch.
Create an intimate seating arrangement
Having fewer guests allows for a much more intimate reception where everyone can get to know one another. Choose to have one large circular table so everyone can converse more easily.
Splurge wisely
Having a small wedding frees up your budget to splurge on a few key elements of your wedding. Whether it’s the flowers, the food or the venue, make sure you determine what is most important to you and your partner.
Shrink the bridal party
Having a small bridal party or none at all is very budget friendly and makes it easier to keep everyone organised. If you can’t imagine getting married without your bestie by your side, consider just having a maid of honour and best man for your bridal party.
Be sure to take group photos
Photographers can easily take group and wedding party photos with smaller weddings. Have guests stand together outside of the venue or ask your photographer to get an aerial shot of you and your guests standing in a heart formation.
Explore coloured wedding dresses
For a non-traditional approach, opt for your favourite coloured dress instead of a white gown. Celebrate your personality by wearing something unique and pairing it with a beautiful flower bouquet.
Throw a post-reception after party
Not ready to stop the celebration? Invite some guests over for an after party and some drinks after the reception is over. – www.shutterfly.com
