You’re probably wondering, “what’s an intimate wedding?”, “is an intimate wedding different than a micro wedding?” Micro weddings are intimate by nature. Though they typically have less than 30 people, including vendors. Intimate weddings typically see less than 50 guests.
In a world filled with grandiose celebrations and elaborate affairs, there’s something truly magical about the simplicity and intimacy of a small wedding- whether that’s under 50 guests, or under 30. From heartfelt exchanges to cherished moments shared with loved ones, an intimate wedding allows you to focus on what truly matters: the love and connection between you and your partner. If you’re considering planning an intimate wedding, here’s a guide to help you bring your dream celebration to life.
DEFINE YOUR VISION
Start together by envisioning what your ideal intimate wedding looks like. Do you picture a romantic sunset on a secluded beach, a cozy gathering in a glass church, an intimate backyard, an orchard? Define the atmosphere, style, and vibe you want to create, keeping in mind the things that matter most to the both of you. Maybe you’re looking for an epic view, a party, etc. Take a moment to think about what you want to feel and how you want it to look.
COME UP WITH A BUDGET
Contrary to how much of the wedding industry may say, it isn’t always so black and white to come up with a budget. On average an intimate wedding can cost anywhere between $15,000-$90,000+. This can really depend on if you’re going for a budget wedding, destination wedding or all the way up to a luxury wedding and yes, intimate weddings can absolutely be luxury. Come up with an ideal budget for your wedding and head to google to research different vendors (catering, photographers, venues, decor, rentals, DJ or live music, etc.) and divide out how much each category/investment may cost. I always say, budget just a little more than you think you might need.
HIRE A PLANNER OR COORDINATOR
The difference between a planner and a coordinator is that a planner makes critical decisions throughout the planning process and in preparation for your wedding. Whereas a coordinator makes sure all details are executed seamlessly, and the plan is brought to action. At the very minimum, I highly suggest a coordinator so they can make sure things are running smoothly throughout the day and you can be as immersed and present on your day as possible.
CHOOSE A MEANINGFUL VENUE
When it comes to planning an intimate wedding, the venue plays a crucial role in setting the tone for your celebration. Look for a location that holds special significance to you and your partner, whether it’s a gorgeous garden, a charming bed and breakfast, a historic landmark, etc. Consider the size, ambiance, and accessibility of the venue to ensure it aligns with your vision.
CREATE YOUR GUEST LIST
One of the defining features of an intimate wedding is its small guest list. Sit down with your partner and make a list of the people you truly want to share this special day with. Whether it’s immediate family members, close friends, or a select group of loved ones, keep the guest list intimate to ensure a meaningful and personal experience for everyone involved.
WHAT TO WEAR
While you may have the mindset to break tradition or go minimal, it might be fun to think about wedding outfits that would best reflect your personal styles and remember you can still go big with an intimate wedding. Don’t be afraid to get cool and weird with it with a colored dress, explore different colors for suits, short gowns, etc. Or keep it traditional if you’ve always envisioned yourself in traditional wedding attire.
PERSONALIZE AS MUCH AS YOU CAN
One of the advantages of planning an intimate wedding is the ability to personalize every aspect of your celebration. From handwritten vows to curated playlists, infuse your wedding day with elements that reflect your personalities, interests, and love story. Get creative with DIY decorations, family heirlooms, and meaningful traditions to make your wedding truly one-of-a-kind.
QUALITY OVER QUANTITY
With a smaller guest list, you have the opportunity to prioritize quality over quantity when it comes to your wedding vendors and services. Invest in a talented photographer to capture the intimate moments of your day, choose a skilled caterer to create a memorable dining experience, and hire a thoughtful officiant who can craft a personalized ceremony that speaks to your relationship. Something important to note, is that you will remember how every person, vendors included, made you feel on your wedding day. Choose vendors wisely and be intentional about who you hire, so you can make sure they are people who will add to your experience.
EMBRACE MEANINGFUL MOMENTS
On your wedding day, take the time to savor the meaningful moments and connections shared with your loved ones. Whether it’s a heartfelt exchange of vows, an intimate dinner under the stars, or a quiet moment shared with your partner, embrace the beauty of simplicity and intimacy and choose experience over a rushed itinerary. Remember that your wedding day is about celebrating your love and commitment to each other, surrounded by the people who matter most.
Planning an intimate wedding is a beautiful opportunity to create a celebration that is truly reflective of your relationship and values. By focusing on love, connection, and authenticity, you can create memories that will last a lifetime and cherish the intimacy of your special day forever.
My name is Taylor Dewey, I'm a couples, weddings, elopements and underwater photographer based in Oahu, Hawaii.
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