The wedding trends in 2021 are still looking a bit different as couples are continuing to trade big, lavish, costly events for smaller, more intimate, and more efficient ceremonies. If you’re a bride-to-be who once dreamt of one of those extravagant weddings (or even a medium-sized wedding), a small wedding may not sound very dreamy, but don’t count out the possibilities for a small-scale wedding to be a sweet and meaningful experience.

The biggest difference you’ll notice if you’re planning a small wedding — also known as a micro wedding — is the cost. You can save lots of money by having a smaller affair and it doesn’t mean you have a less beautiful experience. Some couples find that paring things down in terms of the budget really allowed them to focus on their love within a just-as-special celebration at home.

Although a small wedding will save you money on the event as a whole, it also allows you to focus on guests who will be present with some special moments. You can do a catered sit-down meal for 10 instead of a big pricey buffet spread for 100, create a signature cocktail instead of an open bar, and give better wedding favors. I have a friend who gave her guests gift cards to enjoy their favorite music streaming service instead of the usual $4 CD wedding favor that no one really listens to after the wedding.

Read on to find some useful tips on how to plan a small, stunning wedding, and see if the idea is the right one for you.

What exactly is a small wedding?

There are a few types of celebrations that can be counted as small weddings. An elopement is usually a last-minute and low-key event that includes fewer than 10 guests.

A “minimum” is perfect for those who want to get married sooner than later but also understand the constraints of the state of the world. This wedding can be witnessed in-person or via Livestream as it brings together a tiny group for a simple commitment ceremony on the bride and groom’s original wedding date. The couple may have plans for a larger event at a later, more convenient date.

Another small wedding type is micro-wedding. It’s planned for the closest family and friends — just as a traditional wedding — but on a much smaller scale.

There are a few things to remember when planning a small wedding.

Whether you had always planned a small wedding or you’re adjusting to this as a new idea, it’s understandable how this can be a disappointing time. Focus on whatever is most important to you about your wedding day, and put your time and energy there. Then, if you have to compromise on anything, it will be the aspects of the wedding that aren’t so high on your list. You might have some friends or family members who are unhappy about a smaller wedding because they may be excluded from the guest list. Stay confident in your decision, and hopefully, they will understand. Share lots of video and photos with those who can’t be there.

Having a small wedding doesn’t cancel your need for some expert guidance. A wedding coordinator will assist with the day going smoothly by helping with the sequence of the day, the decor, and setting up any other details that go with your special day.

No matter the size or location of your wedding, you’ll need a marriage license. Look into the requirements a few months before you tie the knot.

Find a venue.

A major advantage of a small wedding is the abundance of venues available. Although large weddings are limited to event spaces that can accommodate a big group, couples looking for small wedding venues can go with anything from a boutique restaurant to an art gallery, an intimate beach, a sunset cruise, or a family member’s backyard. There are few limits to where you can say “I do,” but remember that the venue will guide many aspects of wedding planning.

Because a small wedding can significantly lower costs, you may decide that your budget allows for a destination wedding. They don’t always have to be to an exotic island or international locale. Follow the proper precautions, but a destination wedding can be a few towns or states over that has a special meaning for you and your spouse-to-be.

Choose the wedding party and guests.

Small weddings mean small guest lists. You and your fiancé need to decide together how many guests to have there with you. Some couples opt for their guests to be just their parents and just their children (if it’s a second marriage situation).

Alternatively, you and your partner could have one special friend or family member beside you as you say “I do” or just a maid of honor and best man. You can choose not to have a wedding party at all. Be as discerning as possible with who makes the cut, but try not to feel bad. Remember that it’s your wedding.

Find the right officiant.

Many couples are loving the idea of having a family member or friend officiate their wedding. This adds a more personal element to the ceremony and allows you to incorporate someone who really knows you as a couple into your wedding.

They’ll need to go through the ordination process and make sure your officiant-to-be has a way with words and feels comfortable speaking in front of crowds, even a small ones. Couples on a budget will also appreciate the cost savings of using a friend to officiate. If you prefer, you can hire a professional officiant from the area where you’ll wed.

Get creative with wedding details.

If you’ve shrunk your budget and guest list down but are still dreaming about a fabulous vibe for the ceremony and reception, quality and creativity can flourish in your wedding. From the venue to the food and drinks, as well as the flowers and other decorations, let your small wedding include all the fun and unique details come true.

Creating thoughtful touches throughout the day will be more doable for you with a small wedding if you’re so inclined. This can include handwritten invitations and place cards, keepsake monogrammed napkins you can use again on your anniversary for years, and anything else that makes you both feel special. Don’t count out Amazon when it comes to flowers; you can DIY some arrangements (if you feel you’re skilled in that area) or hire a florist to help you develop a concept that matches your vision.

Hire a photographer.

My cousin had a small wedding of about 50 guests a few years ago but decided to put a chunk of her budget into hiring a professional photographer. It was one of her best decisions because the momentous occasion was captured beautifully. Our family still shares those pictures from the dance floor!

Take your time to search for the right photographer who matches the feeling you’d like to capture that day.

Don’t forget the sweets!

Don’t skimp on the wedding cake because a small wedding still deserves a sweet ending! Though a big cake is not necessary for such an intimate celebration, there are ways to customize the desserts for this day in a special way.

Whether you’re having a ceremony with guests or a virtual event, here are some ideas:

  • Try a cake and champagne only reception with a 6-inch cutting cake or baby two-tier cakes (6- and 4-inch). Search Pinterest for small wedding cakes; you’ll definitely be inspired.
  • If you had originally planned a larger wedding, have the bakery keep your original cake design but make the cake significantly smaller to fit the smaller number of guest servings.
  • Have individually boxed cupcakes so each guest can have a sweet treat to enjoy.
  • Holding a Zoom reception? Have 10 individual 5-inch cakes delivered to local friends and family members — they can watch and celebrate with cake!

Create a registry.

To register or not, that’s the big question. Some say if you’re of a certain age, you don’t need wedding gifts. Others say it’s a good idea to create a registry. Just because you’ve decided on an intimate ceremony doesn’t mean your distant family or work friend wouldn’t want to give you something for your wedding.Lately, couples have been asking friends and family to donate to charities and philanthropic causes instead of buying them a toaster. Yet again, maybe you really need a toaster. It’s your wedding — do what gives you joy!