How to Plan a Small and Intimate Wedding

Gone are the days when weddings were all about grand ballrooms and hundreds of guests. More and more couples are opting for small, intimate celebrations that truly reflect their personalities and values, while also saving them money. 

So if you're considering a cosier affair for your big day, let's take a look at how to create a magical, small wedding that you and your nearest and dearest will cherish forever.

Step 1: Define Your Vision

What's Your Style?

Are you picturing a rustic farm affair, a chic city celebration, or perhaps a backyard barbecue? Your vision will guide every decision you make.

What Matters Most?

Is it the food, the music, or perhaps those quiet moments with your closest friends? If you can identify your priorities early on, this will help you focus your efforts where they count.

How Do You Want to Feel?

Relaxed and carefree? Elegant and sophisticated? The atmosphere you want to create is just as important as the practical details, so this should be taken into account during this brainstorming phase.

Step 2: Create the Guest List

This might be the trickiest part of planning a small wedding, but it's also where the 'intimate' part really comes into play:

Quality Over Quantity

Remember, you're aiming for meaningful connections, not a packed dance floor. Think about who truly needs to be there to make your day special, and make sure both you and your partner have equal say over who to invite.

Set Clear Criteria

Maybe it's only family and closest friends, or perhaps only people you've seen in the last year. Whatever you decide, be consistent to avoid hurt feelings.

Consider a Child-Free Wedding

If you're really looking to keep numbers down, you might want to make your wedding an adults-only affair. Just be sure to give parents plenty of notice so they can organise babysitters!

Step 3: Budgeting for a Small Wedding

While small weddings typically tend to be more budget-friendly, they still require careful financial planning:

Prioritise Your Spending

With fewer guests, you might be able to splurge on areas that really matter to you. Always wanted to hire that amazing London venue styling team? Now might be your chance!

Don't Forget the Details

Sometimes it's the little things that make a big impact. Consider allocating a budget for personalised favours or a special gift for each guest.

Be Savvy with Savings

Look for areas where you can cut costs without compromising on quality. For instance, you might be able to skip the wedding car if your venue has onsite accommodation.

Step 4: Choose Your Wedding Venue

Your venue sets the tone for the entire celebration, so choose wisely.

Think Outside the Box

With a smaller guest list, your venue options open up. Consider art galleries, boutique hotels, or even your favourite restaurant.

Consider the Season

An intimate summer wedding might be perfect for a garden party, while a cosy winter celebration could call for a charming country pub.

Don't Forget Practicalities

While dreaming big is encouraged, don’t forget that your venue needs to be able to comfortably accommodate your guest list - without feeling empty or cramped.

Step 5: Flowers and Decorations

With a smaller wedding, it’s easier to get creative with your decor:

Quality Over Quantity

Instead of numerous centrepieces, consider one stunning floral installation that will wow your guests.

Personal Touches

With fewer tables to decorate, you can really focus on the details. Think hand-written place cards or carefully curated table settings. 

Reuse and Repurpose

Consider how you can make elements do double duty; for example, your ceremony backdrop could become a photo booth for the reception.

Step 6: Don't Skimp on Photography

Just because your wedding is small doesn't mean you should compromise on capturing memories! A skilled photographer can beautifully document the intimate moments of your day, so make sure to speak with several options and ensure they align with your vision of your big day.

Enjoy Your Wedding With The Closest People

So there we have it! And remember, the whole point of a small wedding is to create a truly personal, meaningful celebration, so here are our last few tips:

Create Opportunities for Interaction

Consider a family-style dinner service or interactive food stations to encourage mingling and conversation. Chocolate fountains and champagne fountains are always popular!

Plan Meaningful Moments

With a smaller group, you can include special touches like reading a personal note to each guest or having everyone participate in some way during the ceremony.

Be Present

With fewer distractions and logistics to worry about, you'll have the chance to really soak in every moment. And remember it’s your big day, so take time to connect with each of your guests and create memories that will last a lifetime.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, planning a small, intimate wedding isn't about following a set of rules - it's about creating a day that truly reflects you as a couple. By focusing on what matters most to you and surrounding yourselves with your nearest and dearest, you're sure to create a celebration that's as unique as your love story. So take a deep breath, trust your instincts, and enjoy this special journey towards your big (little) day!