15 Swoon-worthy Small Wedding Ideas
Because bigger isn't always better.
Hyatt Carmel Highlands | Carol Oliva Photography
Small weddings are trending—and it's not just because they're easier on the wallet. Couples are opting for a more intimate celebration to get quality face time with each attendee as well as create a more relaxed, casual vibe. But casual doesn't have to mean simple—there are so many ways to craft a bite-sized event that's brimming with custom-curated details!
Small weddings provide a bit more wiggle room with the budget, which allows ample opportunity to get creative. To prove it, here's a compilation of swoon-worthy ideas for a small wedding that you'll no doubt want to steal.
Keep it tight.
Ditch the giant bridal party in favor of just a couple siblings or BFFs.
Gather in Downtown McKinney | Blue Elephant Photography
Opt for standing room only.
Have everyone stand for a short-but-sweet ceremony. (Unless someone needs a chair, of course!)
The Stable at Bluemont Vineyard | Lisa Boggs Photography
Surround yourself with love.
Take advantage of the small number of attendees by giving everyone the best seat in the house!
Seven4One | Nicolette Moku Photography
Get cozy.
Squeeze everyone into one tight-knit photo. If this isn't frame-worthy, we don't know what is. #throwingupapeacesign
Cedarwood Weddings | Aesthetiica Photography
Dine family style.
Seat your nearest and dearest at a long table and enjoy a family-style meal together.
Deepwood Museum & Gardens | Alexis Arnold Photography
Open up the mic.
Instead of having just the traditional speeches, make your reception an "open mic night" for anyone who'd like to say a few words. (Just prepare yourselves for the uncensored inside jokes!)
Carmel Valley Ranch | The de Jaureguis
Do a liquor store run.
Skip the pricey bar tab and pick up a couple 24-packs. Don't forget the custom koozy wedding favors!
Herrington on the Bay | Landrum Photography
Hire a food truck.
What's more fun than getting a food truck for late-night snacks? We can't think of much, tbh.
Chelsey Boatwright Photography | Curbside Gourmet
Go all out.
When the wedding is small, you can splurge a bit. Seafood tower on an ice sculpture? Yes, please.
Lakewold Gardens | Sarah Anne Photography | Cameron Catering
Or keep it casual.
But there's absolutely nothing wrong with ordering a few artisan pizzas and calling it a night!
Make things interactive.
With a smaller group, you can encourage interaction with lawn games, board games, or a "build-your-own" station—like this ice cream sundae bar!
Paige Jones | Simply Charming Socials
Kick up your feet.
Set up a comfy lounge area to make ALL of your guests feel right at home.
Harmony Chapel and Garden | Kiel Rucker Photography
Gather everyone 'round.
Set up a fire pit for guests to sit around. Bonus points for s'mores, obvi.
Deer Park Villa | Manali Anne Photography
Keep the party going.
Take the entire guest list to the local dive bar for an epic after party. Give them hangover kits to ensure they'll still like you in the morning.
Jessa Schifilliti Photographer
Brunch it up.
And speaking of morning, extend the festivities to include a day-after brunch! Waffle wedding "cake", anyone? #wheresmymimosa
Jadie Jo Photography | Waffle Love
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Filed under Ceremony, Budget Wedding Ideas, Small Wedding, Cakes, DIY Wedding Ideas, Expert Advice, Unique, Food, Wedding Venues / Locations
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