How To Downsize Your Dream Wedding To A Micro Wedding (without the headache)

In this post, we will discuss how to downsize your dream wedding into a micro wedding without the headache. You were all set to get married in 2020 and then the world was hit with a pandemic. Your first step is to figure out if you can still have your dream wedding downsized into a micro wedding. The answer is yes.

Learn more about Christopher Todd Studio's wedding photography.

Pivot and reevaluate what is most important to you. Pour that love into the details and the ones who matter the most in your lives.

In this blog, we will go over the 3 biggest hurdles to overcome without the headache.

Start with the Guest List

A micro wedding can take place at an oceanfront venue like the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach or in your backyard.

A micro wedding is an intimate celebration with your nearest and dearest family and friends. Your wedding guest list might be well over 100 attendees and you need to cut it in half or more.

Here is how to start:

Your guest list should include only the nearest and dearest of family and friends.

• Make a list of immediate family members on both sides. Parents, grandparents, and siblings.
• Extended family can be invited virtually (we talk more about this later)
• Include your friends that you are closest to now. Try to think about who is a major part of your life in the present. It might not be your childhood friends.
• Remove co-workers/parents’ co-workers from your list, they will understand.
• Guests that were originally invited that you know from a club, interest group, or membership can easily be taken off the list. These people can be put on your virtual list
• Create an in person guest list and a virtual guest list.
  

Alternative venues

If you have to change your original venue, choose a small private venue. This can be outdoors or a backyard. If you are locked into a venue, request a smaller space and ask to reallocate money to upgrade menu options, chairs, or other services provided by the venue. With a small venue and guest list you can maximize the guest experience and splurge on decor.

Stunning views, perfect for your micro wedding, at Crescent Bay Point Park in Laguna Beach. A permit is required get all the Laguna Beach Permit information here.

• Private backyard
• City or county park that can be reserved for your event
• Small banquet room
• Private estate
  

Wedding Vendors

• Officiant
• Photographer
• Caterer
• Florist
• D/J or M/C
• Party rental companies
• Wedding planner

Virtual Wedding

Set up a virtual aspect to your wedding. This is a great way to include all the people that cannot be there in person. Choose a platform like Zoom, Facebook, Insta Live, or Skype.

• Hire a professional audio/video company
• Use multiple cameras
• Pre-plan with other vendors
• Set up a big screen so you can view the virtual guests
• Designate a virtual host. Create a hotline for guests who are technically challenged or need help
• Implement a slide show and trivia games about the bride and groom to engage online guests
• Surprise guests with a virtual meal. Plan to have a similar meal you are having delivered to their home.
  

Bottom Line

Micro weddings are a great alternative for couples who want an intimate wedding. Be creative, hire professionals to help plan. Pivoting to a smaller celebration for fall/winter weddings might make sense right now. Your wedding will be just as special and unique as your love.