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Right now, couples need to get extra creative when planning their vows. In the age of social distancing, many brides and grooms are opting for a micro wedding, which features all of the same special moments of the big day–just with no more than 50 guests in attendance. Thinking about doing the same? Check out these nine tips to make sure your micro wedding is one to remember.
1. Choose the right venue
Depending on the size of the space, many couples are leaning toward unique venues to hold their ceremony, reception, or both, says Eddie Zaratsian of Eddie Zaratsian Lifestyle & Design. "There have been a number of beautiful backyard transformations, with stretches of banquet tables for more intimate seating. The budget that you’d normally use for securing a venue could also be allocated to luxurious rentals, such as vintage couches and chairs, a bar setup, or other statement decor pieces."
2. Create the right space
You might find it difficult to fill a venue that’s normally meant to house a large number of people, but there are plenty of ways that you can define a space within a space to make it feel more cozy, such as drapery and lighting, says Kevin Dennis of Fantasy Sound Event Services.
3. Send out invites
Just because it is a smaller affair doesn't mean it doesn't deserve proper correspondence, notes Gretchen Culver of Minne Weddings. "An invitation allows you to clearly communicate all the details of your non-traditional wedding. Make sure to have your guests RSVP as well."
4. Splurge on Style
Trimming your guest list can potentially give you more freedom with your budget, so you can spluge on things that will enhance your guest experience, says Zaratsian. "For example, the concept of ‘bringing the outdoors in’ will have your family and friends in awe-- think lush, extravagant floral installations that hang above your reception tables, or overgrown greenery that evolves your venue entirely."
5. Personalize the day
A smaller wedding means it will be easier to showcase your personal style with special touches that you can either DIY or hire a vendor to put together.
6. Get guests involved
Since there will be a small number of guests in attendance, you can
have them all be a part of your wedding, says Jamie Chang of Let’s I Do This! "Let them be participants instead of just spectators-- have them share stories, memories, wishes and blessings. It will help shape the memory of your wedding and make them a part of it in a bigger way."
7. Set up interactive food displays
Interactive stations can still be sanitary--a fun cocktail hour with experiential garnishes or dry ice can be prepared one-by-one, all while giving guests a cool conversation piece, says Kylie Carlson of The Wedding Academy.
8. Remember to follow rules
You want to make sure everyone is safe during your event, so set up socially distant seating and hand out pretty face masks that can double as wedding favors.
9. Invite guests via Zoom
Consider live streaming your ceremony to include family and friends that cannot be in attendance, suggests Culver. "There are lots of options out there for live stream services from apps to full audio/visual production companies."
