Junior Rasmussen
Planning a small wedding can be an exciting yet challenging task. There are several things to consider, from choosing a venue and setting a budget to deciding on a theme and creating a guest list. It's important to start planning early, especially if you want specific vendors or details that may require more time to organise. A small wedding opens up possibilities for more intimate locations, such as a backyard or outdoor setting, which can be both unique and cost-effective. When it comes to vendors, it's essential to select those who align with your vision and understand the intimacy of a small wedding, such as a photographer, caterer, and florist. Other key considerations include wedding attire, decorations, and entertainment. By being intentional with your choices and keeping your guest list exclusive, you can create a memorable and personalised small wedding experience.
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What You'll Learn
Wedding attire
Planning a wedding, no matter how small, requires a lot of effort and attention to detail. One of the most important aspects of the big day is the wedding attire. Here are some tips and suggestions to help you choose the perfect outfits for the occasion.
The bride's wedding dress is a central element of the wedding and should be chosen carefully. It is essential to select a dress that not only makes you feel amazing but also aligns with the overall wedding style and theme. For instance, if you're having a casual backyard wedding, a formal dress might not be the best fit. Additionally, consider the length of the dress based on the formality of the wedding and the type of celebration you plan to have after the ceremony. If you're having a courthouse or civil ceremony, you can opt for anything from a bridal suit to a mini dress, a slip dress, or even a full-length ball gown. Don't forget to leave enough time for alterations and tailoring; ideally, start looking for your dress at least six months before the wedding. In addition to the dress, choose comfortable wedding shoes and select any accessories, such as a veil, jewellery, and perhaps a clutch.
The groom's attire should also complement the overall wedding style. For a traditional wedding, a tux or a wedding suit is a classic choice. However, if your wedding is more casual or held on a beach, a linen shirt and slacks can be a great option. If you're having a courthouse wedding, you can explore modern silhouettes and styles, such as a chic suit or even a linen shirt with slacks.
The dress code for guests will depend on the formality of the wedding. The most common wedding dress code is formal attire. For men, this typically means a dark suit, a white shirt, and a conservative tie. Women usually opt for a floor-length gown, a cocktail dress, or a dressy pantsuit. If you choose a black-tie dress code, men can wear a tuxedo, and women should opt for formal, floor-length evening gowns, paired with jewellery, heels, and a clutch. For a more casual wedding, guests can dress down a bit, with men wearing a button-down shirt and slacks, and women in a dress or a nice blouse and trousers.
Other Considerations:
Don't forget to pack a button-down shirt to wear while getting your hair and makeup done, and ensure you have all your styling essentials. It's also a good idea to prepare an emergency kit for any last-minute hiccups, including items like a sewing kit for any hem rips, stain remover for lipstick stains, and an umbrella in case of rain.
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Venue and guest list
The venue you choose will affect almost everything else about your wedding, from the number of people you invite to the flowers on the table. It's likely to be the biggest chunk of your budget, so it's important to choose wisely. Think about the style and budget you have in mind, and select a place that fits your guest count, style, and budget. A small wedding opens up the possibilities of where your ceremony and festivities can take place. For example, a backyard wedding might be possible because it can fit your entire guest list without overcrowding.
When you choose to have an intimate wedding, every guest should be someone that you cannot imagine having your wedding day without. It's okay to reflect on your relationships and really consider who you absolutely want to be there to witness one of the most significant and meaningful moments of your life. Be mindful that a small guest list can also make it easier to curate an experience for your guests to participate in. For example, a group rafting outing becomes more feasible when you only need three rafts for your entire guest list.
If you're having a small wedding, not all vendors will be a good fit. A wedding planner, for example, can save you money, time, and stress, but look for one who has experience with small weddings so they understand your vision. Similarly, choose a wedding photographer whose portfolio exemplifies the vibe you're aiming for, and whose personality you get on with.
If you're not marrying in a house of worship, you'll need to hire someone to officiate the wedding. You can use a professional or ask a close friend or family member to do the honors. Make sure they understand the gravity of your small wedding.
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Food and drink
When it comes to drinks, it's essential to have a variety of options available, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Wine, beer, and liquor are common choices, and you can offer a full bar or a few signature cocktails. If you're serving liquor, stock up on popular spirit choices and the necessary mixers. It's also a good idea to have infused water or creative non-alcoholic options, especially for daytime weddings in the summer months. Plan for at least one drink per person per hour, and if you're serving alcohol, be mindful of offering food options that include bread or rice to help soak up the drinks.
To keep costs down, you could ask family members to prepare the food or bring specific dishes, or you could provide your own alcohol by sourcing it through a retailer rather than a caterer, giving you more flexibility in terms of brands and budget. However, it's important to remember that guests shouldn't have to pay for their drinks, and it's generally expected that the couple will cover these costs.
Finally, when planning your menu, consider incorporating personal touches, such as a favourite meal or a dish that reflects your cultural heritage. You should also be mindful of any dietary restrictions and food allergies, clearly labelling dishes that contain common allergens.
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Vendors and rentals
When it comes to vendors and rentals, there are a few key things to keep in mind for a small wedding. Firstly, it's important to book your vendors early, especially if you have specific preferences, as popular vendors can get booked up quickly. This includes your venue, which should be booked as early as possible, followed by other vendors such as photographers, caterers, DJs or bands, and wedding planners.
Next, consider what items you will need to rent. Tables, chairs, linens, and tableware are essential, and you may also want to rent a dance floor, lighting, audio equipment, and decor items such as draping and centrepieces. If your wedding is outdoors, you may also need to rent a tent, and don't forget to include items like dessert plates and forks in your rental order.
When selecting linens, consider your wedding theme, colour scheme, and aesthetic. The fabric you choose will impact the cost, with satin being a popular and inexpensive choice, while damask and brocade patterns are heavier and more costly. Rental companies often offer a wide range of options to match your wedding theme, so you can select the style and design that suit your vision.
To keep costs down, it's a good idea to rent items instead of buying them. This also saves you the hassle of storing, transporting, and cleaning the items yourself. Compare prices and quality between rental companies, and ask for advice from your vendor team, as they often have preferred providers. It's also a good idea to visit the rental company's showroom to see and feel the items before finalising your rentals.
Finally, don't forget the small details, such as ensuring your vendors have all the equipment they need. For example, bartenders will need coolers for drinks, waitstaff may require pitchers, and if you're having a buffet, you'll need serving dishes.
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Photography and styling
Photography:
- Choose a photographer whose style you admire and who understands your vision. Discuss any restrictions with your photographer beforehand, as some venues may have rules regarding photography. For example, some religious venues do not allow photography during the ceremony.
- Ensure your photographer is organised and understands the flow of a wedding. They should be able to capture the key moments, such as the ceremony, vows, and signing, by being in the right place at the right time.
- Encourage your photographer to be proactive and make minor adjustments to improve the overall quality of the images. For example, removing distractions from the frame, such as plastic water bottles, or asking bridesmaids to take off their hair ties.
- Discuss with your photographer how they can insert themselves appropriately to direct the scene and make improvements. Their attention to detail and care for your special day will be reflected in the photographs.
- If you are the photographer, it is important to care about the couple and understand their vision. Being present and focused will help you capture authentic moments. Encourage the couple and their guests to be themselves, as this authenticity will shine through in the photographs.
- Label all your photography gear with your name and contact information to avoid losing any equipment.
Styling:
- Choose a wedding style that reflects your personality and that of your partner. Decide on a theme, such as classic, romantic, modern, bold, or understated. This style will dictate your attire, the bridesmaids' and flower girls' dresses, and even the linens on the reception tables.
- Select attire that aligns with the style and venue of your wedding. For example, a casual backyard wedding may call for a less formal dress, while a beach wedding could be more suited to a linen shirt and slacks.
- Start looking for your wedding dress at least six months in advance to allow time for tailoring.
- Prepare an emergency kit for the wedding day. This could include items like a sewing kit for any hem rips, a stain remover pen for accidental spills, and an umbrella in case of rain.
- If you are having an outdoor wedding, prepare for all types of weather. Provide amenities that offer protection from the elements, such as shade or shelter, and ensure easy access to necessities.
- Curate a cohesive look for your bridesmaids and flower girls that complements your wedding style.
Remember, a small wedding gives you more flexibility with the venue and allows you to focus on creating a personalised and memorable experience for you and your guests.
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Frequently asked questions
Prepare all the items you'll need for your wedding day in advance, from the essentials like your rings and attire to items that will help your ceremony run smoothly, like programs and seating markers.
The venue is one of the most important decisions you'll make, as it affects everything else, from the number of guests to the flowers on the table. You'll also need to decide on the theme, style, and vibe of your wedding, which will influence everything from the dresses to the linens.
While some items will be provided by your vendors, there are still things you'll need to purchase. This includes your wedding attire, rings, and possibly items like candles and candle holders, cups, plates, and utensils if your vendors don't provide them.
When creating your guest list, ensure that each guest is someone you can't imagine having your wedding day without. It's okay to be intentional and selective about who you invite to witness this meaningful moment. Communicate your plans for an intimate wedding to your circle beforehand so that those who receive an invite feel special.
Not all vendors are a good fit for small weddings. Look for wedding planners who have experience with small weddings, as they are more likely to understand your vision. Choose a photographer whose portfolio and personality align with your wedding's vibe. For other vendors like florists and caterers, consider their minimum investment requirements and whether they can work within your budget.
