Lyla Dejesus
Planning a wedding can be stressful, and one of the biggest decisions is the guest list. Many people dream of a big wedding with all their friends and family, while others prefer an intimate gathering. It's a personal choice, but one that can lead to some anxiety and even regret if not executed according to the couple's wishes. Some people regret not having a smaller wedding, as it can be more affordable, less stressful, and allow for more quality time with guests. On the other hand, some couples regret not inviting more people, feeling they missed out on celebrating with loved ones. Ultimately, the decision should reflect what the couple wants, as it's their special day.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of guests | 8-14, 13, 16, 20, 22, 24, 30, 35, 40, 50, 65, 70 |
| Cost | Cheaper than larger weddings |
| Planning | Less stressful to plan than larger weddings |
| Time with guests | More time with each guest |
| Food and drink | Able to afford better food and drink |
| Decorations | Able to spend more on decorations |
| Location | More location options |
| Activities | More time for activities |
| Regrets | Some people regret not inviting more guests, some regret not having a small wedding |
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What You'll Learn
More time with each guest
Having a small wedding means you can spend more time with each guest. With a smaller guest list, you won't feel rushed and can spend quality time with the people who matter most to you. This means you can create more meaningful memories with your loved ones and ensure that they feel appreciated.
One person who had a small wedding shared that they were glad they could have "time to talk with everyone and enjoy the moment". Another couple with 13 guests said that while there were moments they wished other loved ones were there, it "did not take away from [their] joy". They recognised that they couldn't have everyone there without making other sacrifices and that they didn't regret their decision.
A couple who had 16 guests at their wedding shared a similar sentiment, saying that they were pleased with their "small wedding crew" as there were still people to share the joy but not so many that it became unmanageable.
If you have a smaller wedding, you'll also have more time for other activities, such as taking photos, playing games, and enjoying the food and entertainment. You can create a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere where you can truly connect with your guests and create lasting memories.
While some people may regret not inviting certain guests, many couples who have had small weddings say that they are glad they kept the guest list limited as it allowed them to spend more time with each person and made the day more special and meaningful.
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Less stress
Planning a wedding can be stressful, and one of the biggest sources of stress is the guest list. It can be difficult to decide who to invite, and large weddings can be overwhelming for some couples. A small wedding can help reduce stress levels and allow the couple to focus on their celebration.
With a smaller guest list, there are fewer people to coordinate, communicate with, and cater to. This means less time spent on logistics, such as transportation, accommodation, and seating arrangements. It also means that the couple can allocate more of their budget to each guest, providing a more luxurious experience for their guests and potentially reducing the amount of DIY work required.
A smaller wedding also allows the couple to spend more quality time with each guest. They can have meaningful conversations and create lasting memories without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. This intimate setting can foster a deeper connection between the couple and their guests, making the celebration more enjoyable and relaxed.
Additionally, a small wedding can reduce the pressure of living up to expectations. With a larger wedding, there may be a perception that more elements need to be included, such as multiple events, elaborate decorations, or extravagant entertainment. A small wedding simplifies the planning process and allows the couple to focus on what is truly important to them, without feeling the need to impress or cater to a wide range of guests.
While some couples may worry about disappointing family or friends who are not invited, it is important to remember that those who love and support the couple will understand and respect their decision. Ultimately, it is the couple's special day, and they should feel empowered to create an event that aligns with their vision and values, without sacrificing their happiness or peace of mind.
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More budget for food and drink
One of the biggest benefits of having a small wedding is that you will have more room in your budget for food and drink. With fewer guests to feed and water, you can afford to splash out on higher-quality food and drink options, or simply have more of both!
For example, one couple who had a small wedding were able to afford delicious food because they only had to feed 40 people. They also had a better selection at the bar because they had fewer guests to cater to. Another couple who had a small wedding were able to have a BBQ party in a small venue for their closest people.
If you have a large wedding, you may find yourself having to cut corners when it comes to food and drink. For instance, one person who had a large wedding said they wished they had spent more time thinking about the food and drink options instead of the guest list. Another person who had a large wedding said they felt rushed at times to speak to everyone, and in hindsight, they would have preferred a smaller wedding so they could have spent more time with their closest friends and family.
In addition to having more money to spend on food and drink, a small wedding also means you will have fewer guests to accommodate, which can reduce stress and make it easier to spend quality time with each guest. Several people who have had small weddings said they were glad they did because it gave them more time to connect with their guests. One person said they didn't feel rushed and were able to spend around five minutes with each guest. Another person said they were happy they didn't have to work themselves to death entertaining a large number of guests.
Ultimately, the decision about how big or small to make your wedding is a personal one, and there are pros and cons to both options. However, if having a high-quality food and drink selection is a priority for you, a small wedding may be the best choice.
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More budget for decor
Having a small wedding can have its perks, and one of the most significant advantages is the opportunity for a more generous decor budget. Here are some ways to maximise your decor budget and create a stunning wedding atmosphere:
Choose a naturally beautiful venue
Selecting a venue with attractive interiors and a unique style can reduce the need for extensive decorations. An outdoor wedding ceremony and reception, for instance, typically require minimal decor compared to a blank-slate ballroom. Consider venues with natural beauty, such as gardens, parks, or resorts, which can provide a gorgeous backdrop for your wedding without requiring additional adornments.
Focus on lighting and flowers
Lighting and flowers can have a significant impact on the ambiance and aesthetics of your wedding. Fairy lights, bistro lights, and candles can create a warm and romantic atmosphere. Flowers, whether in bouquets, centrepieces, or installations, add elegance and colour. The Knot recommends allocating around 9% to 12% of your budget to flowers, décor, and lighting.
Shop second-hand and bulk buy
Purchasing decorative elements such as candles, vases, and second-hand items in bulk can help you save money. Thrift stores, wholesale stores, and craft stores are excellent sources for affordable wedding décor. You can also repurpose your wedding decorations for other events, such as your wedding shower or rehearsal dinner, to get more value from your purchases.
Keep it simple and minimalist
A minimalist approach to wedding decor can be both elegant and cost-effective. Instead of grand floral arrangements, consider using single stems with greenery or creating a curtain of greenery for your ceremony backdrop. Simple candle accents and thoughtful seating arrangements can also enhance the space without breaking the bank.
Prioritise what matters most to you
Ultimately, the most important factor is to identify what you and your partner value most for your wedding day. If decor is a priority, allocate your budget accordingly. However, if you prefer to focus on other aspects, such as photography, food, or entertainment, ensure that your budget reflects those choices.
By embracing a small wedding, you open up opportunities to create a beautifully decorated celebration without compromising your overall budget.
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More intimate
Having a small wedding can be a great option for couples who want a more intimate and personalised celebration. Here are some advantages of having a small wedding and why you may not regret it:
Financial Savings and Less Stress: Smaller weddings typically mean fewer guests, which can result in significant financial savings. With a smaller guest list, you'll have fewer mouths to feed, reducing catering costs. You may also have more flexibility with your budget, allowing you to splurge on decorations, venue, or a special honeymoon. Additionally, a smaller wedding can reduce the stress and workload leading up to the big day, as there are fewer logistics to manage and less pressure to plan a grand event.
Quality Time with Guests: An intimate wedding gives you the opportunity to spend quality time with each of your guests. Rather than a quick hello and goodbye, you'll have the chance to engage in meaningful conversations and create lasting memories with your loved ones. This can lead to a more enjoyable and fulfilling experience for both you and your guests.
Personalisation and Flexibility: Smaller weddings often allow for greater personalisation and flexibility in terms of venue, activities, and scheduling. You can choose a cosy venue that suits your style and create a warm and intimate atmosphere. You can also incorporate unique activities or games that reflect your personalities, making the day even more special and memorable.
Focus on You as a Couple: Ultimately, your wedding day is about celebrating your love and commitment as a couple. A small wedding can help keep the focus on you and your partner, ensuring that your ceremony and reception reflect your personalities and values. By including only your closest loved ones, you create a supportive and intimate environment that can enhance the emotional significance of the day.
While there may be concerns about inviting fewer guests, it's important to remember that a small wedding can be just as special and memorable as a large one. By prioritising your wishes and creating a day that truly reflects your relationship, you can avoid potential regrets and cherish the intimate celebration you've always wanted.
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Frequently asked questions
Many people who have had small weddings do not regret their decision. Some benefits of a small wedding include:
- More time to spend with each guest
- More budget for decorations, food, and drink
- Less stress in the lead-up to the wedding
- A more intimate experience
This is a personal decision, but some people who have had very small weddings (under 15 guests) say they wished they had included more of their loved ones.
It is important to invite only those closest to you. One person who had a small wedding recommends asking yourself: "Who do I want there?" rather than "What do I want at my wedding?"
