Newly engaged couples dream of their wedding day — complete with food, flowers, family and friends. Sadly, the global pandemic put many of those dreams on hold. With more couples scaling back, adjusting or moving their initial wedding plans, Melanie Tindell of Oak & Honey Event Planning Co. has seen some say “I do” to micro weddings. “We find our clients love the smaller, intimate weddings because they have more time to relax and talk to the guests,” Tindell says. She has tips for turning your big day into a small gathering everyone will love.
Figuring Out The Guest List
One of the biggest struggles? Narrowing the guest list. “When it comes to a micro wedding,” says Tindell, “you really want to think about who you want there with you for the day, to experience that with you.” She suggests considering who you’ve talked to in the last six months. Couples can also draw a line by just inviting family. Or just family and friends. Talk it over together to see where you land.
Choosing a Unique Venue
A smaller guest list gives you more options, so couples can think outside the box for their wedding venue. “You can be at the patio of a restaurant or a brewery,” Tindell says, “where it’s more of an intimate experience.” She’s working with a couple who are beer lovers. With a guest count of about 80, they’re looking for local breweries to host their reception and show off their unique interests.
Make It Personal
With a micro wedding, it’s easier to splurge on the tiny details that are meaningful to both of you. If food is important, Tindell suggests opting for a delicious four-course meal instead of a more standard plated or buffet dinner. “That’s one of the great things about micro weddings,” Tindell says, “because sometimes you have to cut things that you really want when you have a large guest count.”
