Your Ultimate Guide to Planning a Micro Wedding After Getting Engaged

Congratulations on your engagement! This joyful time is filled with excitement, love, and countless decisions. As you start planning your micro wedding, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, this guide is here to help you each step of the way, ensuring your special day is everything you envision and more.

Understanding the Micro Wedding Concept

Before you jump into planning, let’s clarify what a micro wedding is. Typically involving a guest list of 10 to 50 people, micro weddings offer an intimate setting where the focus is on you and your loved ones. .

Micro weddings are ideal for those who want a meaningful celebration without the stress of a large-scale event. They offer flexibility in venue selection, budgeting, and personalization, making them a popular choice among modern couples.

Step 1: Set a Budget

The first step in planning your micro wedding is establishing a budget. Decide on a comfortable spending limit for your wedding. Interestingly, many couples find that micro weddings often allow for a more lavish experience per guest. For instance, you might choose to spend 30% more on a gourmet meal because you’re hosting fewer guests.

Consider all wedding aspects: venue, catering, attire, flowers, and entertainment. A helpful tip is to create a spreadsheet to track expenses. This will keep you organized and within your limit.

Step 2: Choose Your Date and Venue

With a budget set, it's time to pick a date and venue. Micro weddings offer date flexibility. You could choose a meaningful date or opt for off-peak times to save money. For example, a Friday in the off-season might reduce venue costs significantly, even by 20% or more.

Think creatively when selecting a venue! Beyond traditional halls, consider options that reflect your personality, such as:

• A cozy backyard

• A local wine bar with a charming atmosphere

• A scenic park that needs minimal decoration

  
  

If you envision an outdoor wedding, remember to check weather forecasts or consider tents for backup plans.

A charming outdoor wedding venue adorned with flowers and lights

Step 3: Create Your Guest List

For a micro wedding, start by listing your must-have guests, like immediate family and closest friends. This offers you the chance to create an intimate atmosphere where you can connect deeply with each attendee.

Once you have a preliminary list, evaluate whether you want to include anyone else. Stay true to your vision; prioritize celebrating your love over feeling obligated to invite others.

Step 4: Personalize Your Ceremony

One of the most rewarding aspects of a micro wedding is the ability to make your ceremony uniquely yours. Collaborate with your officiant to craft a ceremony that celebrates your relationship. You could incorporate elements such as:

• Personal vows that highlight your journey together

• Special readings that resonate with both of you

• A unity ceremony, like planting a tree or blending colors in sand

  
  

Personal touches, such as a favorite song or a cultural ritual, enhance the experience and make it even more memorable.

Step 5: Plan Your Reception

After the ceremony, it’s time to gather with your loved ones for a reception. Given your smaller guest list, you can plan a more intimate setting. Options include:

• A sit-down dinner at a favorite restaurant

• A delightful picnic in a nearby park

• A casual cocktail gathering at home

  
  

When planning food and drinks, think about what you enjoy most. You could hire a caterer, organize a potluck-style meal, or even cook a special dish together, which adds a personal touch.

An elegant table setting with floral centerpieces and fine dining arrangements

Step 6: Choose Your Attire

Your wedding attire is a chance to showcase your style. A micro wedding allows more freedom in your choices. Whether you prefer a classic gown, a modern jumpsuit, or a casual outfit, the goal is to feel confident.

Don’t overlook your partner’s look! Coordinate your outfits so you both complement each other beautifully on your special day.

Step 7: Capture the Moments

Hiring a photographer or videographer is crucial to preserve your micro wedding's memories. Look for someone whose style aligns with your vision and understands the event's intimate nature.

Create a shot list to ensure you capture all key moments, from emotional exchanges to joyful celebrations with guests. These images and videos will become cherished keepsakes for years to come.

Step 8: Prepare for the Unexpected

Even with solid planning, surprises can happen. Be ready for potential issues like weather changes or last-minute cancellations. Having a backup plan will help you stay relaxed and enjoy your day.

Creating a wedding day timeline is a smart move. Share this plan with vendors and key participants to ensure everyone is aligned and prepared.

Remember the Joy of Your Journey

Planning a micro wedding might seem daunting at first, but it can also be a deeply fulfilling experience. By embracing these steps, you can create a beautiful celebration that reflects your unique love story.

Focus on enjoying the process and what truly matters: celebrating your love with those who mean the most. Before you know it, you will be walking down the aisle, ready to say “I do” surrounded by your closest friends and family. Happy planning!

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