Congratulations on your engagement! As you start planning your big day, you may be wondering whether a small wedding or elopement is the right choice for you. While a traditional large wedding can be a wonderful celebration with family and friends, there are many reasons why couples choose to go small. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of a small wedding or elopement and help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.


  1. Guest List - One of the biggest benefits of a small wedding or elopement is the ability to keep your guest list short. If you have a large extended family or a wide circle of friends, it can be challenging to trim down your guest list to fit within your budget. A small wedding or elopement allows you to focus on those closest to you and have a more intimate and personal celebration.
  2. Budget - Speaking of budget, a small wedding or elopement can be a great way to save money. With fewer guests, you can save on venue, catering, and other expenses. Plus, you can splurge on the things that matter most to you, like a dreamy wedding dress, a destination location, or a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
  3. Intimacy - A small wedding or elopement can be incredibly romantic and intimate. You can exchange your vows in a private setting with just your partner, or a few close family and friends. You can create a personal and meaningful ceremony that truly reflects your love and commitment to each other.
  4. Flexibility - A small wedding or elopement can also give you more flexibility and freedom in your wedding planning. You can choose to have a destination wedding or elopement, travel to a location that’s special to you, or have a non-traditional ceremony. You can tailor your wedding day to your unique preferences and create a day that’s truly special to you.
  5. Less Stress - Planning a large wedding can be stressful, with many moving parts and details to coordinate. A small wedding or elopement can be much less stressful, with fewer logistics to manage. You can focus on the things that matter most to you and create a celebration that feels relaxed and enjoyable.


While there are many benefits to a small wedding or elopement, it’s not the right choice for everyone. Here are some things to consider before deciding:


  1. Family and Friends - If having all of your loved ones present on your big day is important to you, a small wedding or elopement may not be the right choice. You may feel guilty or regretful if you don’t invite certain family members or friends, and your loved ones may feel left out of your celebration.
  2. Tradition - If you’re attached to the idea of a traditional wedding with all the trappings, a small wedding or elopement may not feel like a true wedding to you. You may miss out on some of the traditional elements, like a large bridal party or a big reception.
  3. Photos and Memories - If having beautiful wedding photos and memories is important to you, a small wedding or elopement may not be the right choice. With fewer guests, you’ll have fewer people to share your memories with, and you may not have as many photos to look back on.


Ultimately, the decision of whether to have a small wedding or elopement is a personal one that depends on your unique preferences and circumstances. Consider your guest list, budget, desired level of intimacy, and the level of stress you’re willing to take on. With the right planning and mindset, a small wedding or elopement can be a wonderful and memorable way to celebrate your love and commitment to each other.