Ideas for an intimate wedding
Ready to embrace the latest marriage trend and downsize your day (and your budget)? Here’s some inspiration for a perfect tiny wedding
If the idea of a big wedding fills you with dread, don’t panic – you are not alone! Small intimate weddings are a thing. And there are so many benefits. Not only do couples get to share the magic with those they love the most, but the event can be personalised to make it more meaningful. And let’s not forget with a reduced guest list, you can make your budget go further. There’s more freedom to spend on what matters most to you – it might be a stunning dress, a wonderful wedding breakfast, fantastic flowers, gifts for your guests or your honeymoon. Here are some of our ideas for an intimate wedding to get your creative juices flowing.
The place: With a reduced guest list, you have so much more freedom to marry in a place that means something to you. That might be by the beach, in a castle or under a beautiful tree. If you love the great outdoors, you might want rugged countryside, Harry Potter fans might magic up a castle. Break with tradition. Let your imagination run riot. You’ll be surprised what’s out there.
The people: Micro-weddings are for your nearest and dearest. In most cases, we’re talking maximum 30 guests but it could be a lot less. You’ll know who these people are. This means restricting the guest list. Make sure these people can be there on your preferred dates. If you’re worried about upsetting those who didn’t make the cut, book an after party and invite everyone. Send those invitations at the same time.
The promises: Let’s not overlook that this day is all about your vows. Making your promises to each other in front of the people that have supported you to this point is very special. More couples are realising that large weddings become a show where the meaning of the marriage is almost secondary. We’re sure that if you make your commitments in front of a small group you’ll feel the love all the more.
The photos: Your memories of the day present another chance to do things differently. Choose a photographer who will take real life photos and avoid the staged, awkward poses. A videographer can capture the moments for social media so everyone feels they were there. And with a smaller group, you can get everyone in the shots naturally. There’s also the chance to explore the local area, head into the garden and beyond – perfect for the photo album.
You have the freedom to choose food and drinks that you want!
Plating up: Food glorious food. An intimate wedding is an opportunity to eat what you want when you want. Some couples opt for private chefs cooking to Michelin-star standards. But you might want fish and chips with a side of fizz. Or have a BBQ using local ingredients. The more budget conscious ask guests to each prepare a dish to create a memorable buffet banquet. Coronation chicken anyone?
Personalising: Concentrate on celebrating your life so far with your guests. We love photo frames dotted around venues with pics of your friends and family so they can see the part they play in your lives. It’s also a great way to encourage guests to explore the venue. If you’re having a sit-down meal, you can express your personality with wonderful tablescapes. From Mad Hatters to winter wonderlands, these details can add elegance and individuality to your celebration. You can also theme the table with the food – or vice versa, the world is your oyster (great starter by the way).
Planning: We always recommend a wedding coordinator to help ensure everything runs smoothly up to and on the big day. You can relax and leave them to handle the schedule, transport, logistics, catering, guests, suppliers, photography – plus last-minute emergencies. Enjoy your moment and let someone else handle the schedules and suppliers.
Post-party: The fun doesn’t end when the guests depart. You can follow up with personalised memories from the wedding. We’re loving the current trend for painted champagne bottles as keepsakes.
If you like the sound of a wedding with more time for the people you love the most, a micro wedding might be right for you.
Tiny Weddings in Exmoor
At Exmoor Character Weddings, our small wedding celebrations can cater for up to 22 people. Everyone stays on site so you can relax in our three character cottages with gorgeous gardens, cosy fires, and hot tubs. And your fur friends are welcome too! We offer a Complete Coordination service so every detail is managed by our professional team. Our experienced celebrant Pamela will walk you through the process. With wedding stays of three nights or more, you can fill your hearts with your loved ones in Exmoor and leave with wonderful memories of your marriage celebration here.
Want to find out more? Get in touch with Lucy for a chat.
