Micro-Wedding Timeline (6 Months → Week-of Checklist)

A micro-wedding may be smaller in scale, but it still deserves thoughtful planning. The beauty of keeping your guest list to 15–40 is that you can streamline the process without sacrificing design or impact. Whether you’ve just said “yes” or you’re heading into the final countdown, this timeline breaks down exactly what to do — from six months out to the week of — so your day runs effortlessly.

Organizing the dream wedding: A tidy workspace with a keyboard, elegant pens, and a notepad ready for planning every detail.

6 Months Out: Foundation & Big Decisions

• Set your budget → Decide what matters most (venue, food, photography).

• Choose your guest list → With a micro-wedding, intimacy is key.

• Book your venue or restaurant → Popular boutique spaces go quickly.

• Hire your photographer → With fewer guests, photos carry even more weight.

• Secure officiant & planner/day-of coordinator → Even small weddings benefit from professional support.

4 Months Out: Details That Define the Day

• Book florist → Focus on high-impact pieces: ceremony installation, bouquet, and table florals.

• Plan catering/menu → If you’re in a restaurant, select coursing and wine pairings.

• Arrange rentals (if needed) → Linens, chairs, candles — fewer items, but elevated ones.

• Select attire → Bride, partner, and key family members. Alterations may take several months.

• Consider videographer or live music → Scale down, but don’t skip what matters to you.

2 Months Out: Guest Experience & Finishing Touches

• Mail invitations → Digital invites are fine for this size, but printed adds formality.

• Plan ceremony → Outline readings, vows, or traditions.

• Book hair & makeup → Even if it’s just for you, secure your slot early.

• Plan décor accents → Menus, signage, candles, place cards. Small details shine with fewer guests.

• Choose cake or dessert → Single-tier cakes or a plated dessert course both feel special.

1 Month Out: Confirm & Finalize

• Confirm with all vendors → Times, addresses, and final payments.

• Create day-of timeline → Ceremony, cocktails, dinner. Even intimate weddings run smoother with structure.

• Plan seating or table arrangements → One long table or a few smaller ones.

• Book transportation if needed → Cars or shuttles for guests if off-site.

• Select playlists → Dinner and cocktail playlists if you’re not hiring live music.

1 Week Out: Final Touches

• Pick up attire & accessories → Final fittings, pressed and ready.

• Pack an emergency kit → Fashion tape, touch-up makeup, Advil, tissues.

• Prep welcome bags (if offering) → A chic gesture for out-of-town guests.

• Confirm headcount with caterer/restaurant → Last-minute adjustments.

• Rehearsal dinner or welcome drinks → Keep it casual — rooftop cocktails, backyard pizza night.

Day Before & Wedding Day

• Drop off décor with planner/venue → Candles, signage, place cards.

• Walk through the ceremony space → Confirm layout and flow.

• Wedding morning → Relax, enjoy hair/makeup, and soak in the calm of knowing your intimate celebration is fully under control.

Takeaway

A micro-wedding gives you freedom to focus on the details that matter most. With this six-month to week-of timeline, you’ll feel organized and intentional — leaving room to enjoy the beauty of the day instead of stressing over logistics.

Ready to plan your own small celebration? Join our list and get the free 2-page Micro-Wedding Starter Checklist →