How to Plan a Small Wedding: Epic Micro-Wedding Ideas
Bigger doesn’t always equate to better. We think that a more intimate guest list to any event can make it even more special. A ‘micro-wedding’ defines any ceremony under 20 people, and this has been a big buzzword in the industry as brides and grooms ditch a big white wedding for something more intimate. Today, we are here to show you how to plan a small wedding and all the reasons why a smaller guest list makes for an extra special day.
Our wedding venue in Northamptonshire has intimate suites and packages for 15, so you can start planning your small wedding with your nearest and dearest at an affordable price!
How to Plan a Wedding on a Small Budget
One of the most obvious benefits of micro-wedding is that fewer guests inevitably means you will be saving money. With the food, open bar and wedding favours, a lot of attendees can make the cost of the day skyrocket.
1. Decide on a Budget
If you had already planned your budget, you should now have some leftover which you can save for a rainy day. If you had not yet decided on a budget, think about how much you’d like to spend on each guest, the venue, the food and go from there.
2. Consider a Micro Wedding Package
A wedding package is an ideal solution. Here you can receive everything you need for a memorable day, all within a budget. Our Love Bug package is based on 15 guests for your ceremony & wedding breakfast from just £1,999. This includes everything you need from room hire for your full-day – including civil ceremony and a sumptuous three-course sit-down meal followed by tea and coffee. (Please contact our team or visit our wedding page for the most up to date wedding packages.)
How to Plan a Small Intimate Wedding
Many couples opt for a destination wedding when holding a small wedding but there’s no reason that you can’t hold a micro-wedding here in the UK.
One of the most crucial things to get right for a smaller wedding is the venue. Somewhere too large will create an odd atmosphere and you don’t want to cram all your guests into a tight space.
3. Find the Right Venue Size
You can enjoy your meal and set up space for a dance floor. Just because there are fewer guests, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have music and the chance to throw some shapes. Why not create a collaborative playlist in the lead up to the big day so everyone can enjoy their favourites for an intimate celebration.
4. Choose your Guest List Carefully
When it comes to choosing your wedding guests, you need to choose the closest and most important friends and family members in your life. Sit down with your fiancé and draw up a list.
The great thing about a micro-wedding is it eliminates the pressure of inviting people you don’t really want there. That annoying family member or coworker won’t have to be added to the guest list. Having only the most important people by your side makes a memorable day where each moment is extra special.
Small Wedding Ideas
The best part about a micro-wedding is that you can create an intimate feel by making every element bespoke. Create personalised wedding favours and place settings which your guests will adore is the perfect intimate wedding idea. Wedding speeches are one of the pinnacle points of the big day, and you can be sure to include every guest in this sentiment. Why not add a personal message for each attendee, detailing how you met and what they mean to you.
If you want to save money you can always get creative and hand everyone a disposable camera – this way you can eliminate the costs of a photographer. After the wedding, you can see the big day from all angles!
Many brides are now ditching the pricey wedding dress to go with an elegant high street number. These can look just as good, without breaking the bank. Charity shops are excellent places to pick up second-hand bits and bobs, including bridesmaid dresses. Mismatching bridesmaids outfits are a massive trend this year, so to save even more cash, ask them to wear their favourite evening gown.
How to Plan a Small Wedding Reception
Everyone’s favourite part of a wedding is the reception, a chance to let your hair down and have a good time. The great thing about a smaller guest list is that you can spend more time with each individual and make each guest feel really special. Your wedding party will be far more relaxed, meaning you can enjoy the ambience. The atmosphere at the reception is really important, so make sure you find a venue which makes you feel like you’re in a fairytale.
Sedgebrook Hall, our countryside manor house in Northampton, offers incredible surrounding landscape that sets the scene for romance. Plus beautiful rooms for a variety of wedding sizes that can cater to both ceremony and reception.
On a warm day, our outside area becomes a backdrop for a charming photo shoot. Our team are well versed in outdoor weddings and know how to make this unique day extra special.
5. Create Bespoke Elements
As the evening approaches, give each guest a personalised wedding box, containing an array of treats. This could be anything from wine to fancy fudge, bath salts and oils. Make sure you engrave the box with the name of the happy couple and the date of the big day. A micro-wedding presents the perfect opportunity to ditch tradition and try something different.
6. Personalise the Entertainment
For wedding entertainment, why not incorporate something you all love. Bring your favourite board games and turn the reception into a battle of wits. If someone in the small group is musical, ask them to bring instruments and perform a live show. This is your wedding so make sure you make it personal.
7. Enjoy Luxurious Food and Drinks
As you are saving money with fewer guests, we would highly recommend splurging out on the food and beverages. If there was something you’ve always wanted to try, now is your chance. Serve your guests the finest food from food trucks, gorgeous cocktails and fresh fruit juices.
If you are leaning away from tradition, remember you don’t need to stick to the white tiered affair for your wedding cake. Why not try something different with easy to eat cupcakes, pies, cheesecakes or even a savoury cake. If you and your partner have a special food you share together, perhaps the meal of your first date, incorporate this into the big day.
How to Plan a Small Wedding Conclusion
If you weren’t convinced before, we hope our blog on how to plan a small wedding has assured you that micro-weddings can be just as incredible, if not more. Wedding planning with a smaller number of guests will be far easier and more relaxed, and the day itself will be extra special. The most important thing is that you will be wed to your partner, a moment you will remember forever.
Here is a rundown on how to plan a small wedding:
- Decide on a budget
- Consider a micro wedding package
- Find the right venue size
- Choose your guest list carefully
- Create bespoke elements
- Personalise the entertainment
- Enjoy luxurious food and drinks
Our team at Sedgebrook Hall hope you have a magical wedding day. We still have spaces available for 2022 if you need a stunning venue for your micro-wedding. Our wedding planners are experienced in planning magical days from large events to intimate affairs for a range of couples.
For further information or to chat with one of our team about your wedding day, don’t hesitate to give us a call.
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