The
Alisandra Photography Blog

Micro Wedding. Intimate Wedding. Elopement.

No matter what you call it, if you were planning a big wedding and are now having to make it smaller, you’re probably grieving the change of plans and the loss of, “what I’ve always imagined.” Recently, I’ve heard from several of my clients and inquiries that they are looking for ways to make their smaller event just as special. How to Elope in Williamsburg Virginia.

So, I sat down to think of a few ways you can elevate and celebrate your small wedding so it feels “big wedding” special. I also reached out to my friend at Over The Top Flowers for some advice. Here’s what we came up with:

1. Hiring Vendors.
   You think: “With only 10 people, we don’t need to hire ____. Our family and friends will help.”
   I say: We KNOW they are more than willing to help with details. But a way to make the day feel less like a DIY backyard party and more like an elegant wedding is to hire the people who are experts at what they do. Wedding vendors know how to elevate the LOOK of things. The florist, rentals, and photographer would be where I’d start.
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2. Covid Wedding ≠ Backyard Wedding.
   You think: “I guess we’re getting married in the backyard.
   I say: If that doesn’t feel special to you or if you don’t have a great option in your own backyard, consider renting a beautiful AirBnB or even a small event space! Maybe one with lots of yard space, beautiful light inside, and well decorated. Having a neutral space can take the stress off of family members who may feel overwhelmed with preparing their home for a wedding. It can also help the day feel different, set apart, and remarkable.
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3. Honor Your Guests.
   You think: “Well of course… but how?”
   I say: With such a small guest list, consider writing each guest a personal letter. Thank them for coming and tell them how much they mean to you! This heartfelt gesture won’t go unnoticed.
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4. Don’t Downsize Everything.
   You think: “Small wedding, small everything.”
   I say: The guest list is smaller and number of tables have been reduced. That doesn’t mean your vision has to be! For example, consider keeping the same large centerpieces, bulking up the size of your bouquet, and set apart your guests of honor with wrist corsages and boutonnières. With a smaller guest list, you have the opportunity to making your details larger than life, and it will show in your photos!
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5. It’s All in the Details.
   You think: “We have enough folding chairs for 10 people – we can just use those.”
   I say: Elevate your event with chaivari chairs or these bamboo beauties below. Hire a cleaning service before the day to spiffy up your home and take the stress off of you. Depending on the season, spray for mosquitos or rent heaters. Use flatware and real plates. My bride below purchased mis-matched drink wear for her small wedding.
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6. Opt for a First Look.
   You think: I want to save the moment for the aisle!
   I say: In order to have a great flow from the ceremony into mingling and the meal, opt for a first look. With a full size wedding, when the bride and groom disappear for a while for portraits, it’s not very noticeable. With a smaller wedding, if you disappear after the ceremony for portraits, your presence is more likely to be noticed. Don’t think of this as a compromise. First looks are extremely special.
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7. Do something a little “EXTRA.”
   You think: “Let’s keep it simple and save our money for the party we plan to have later on.”
   I say: With a smaller space and guest list, it now can be more cost effective to go for one or two big ticket ideas. Now is your chance to do that extravagant champagne wall you saw on Pinterest. Or a styled s’mores table around the fire pit. Hang thousands of twinkle lights around the backyard to add some magic as the sun sets. Create an outdoor living space with rentals. Hire a food truck or spice up the menu. Have my friends at Brick Wall Coffee Bar set up a specialty coffee experience for you and your guests.
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8. Do it for the ‘gram!
   You think: Do WHAT for the ‘gram?
   I say: Ha! That’s just my way of saying that photos are such an important part of your memories from the day. There are ways to create experiences to make your day special, but also that are visually compelling. Here is short and definitely not complete bulleted list you can incorporate that doesn’t make a huge dent in the budget, but visually elevates your wedding day:
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• • Have the photographer arrive to capture getting ready. Photos of your details
    and getting dressed set the stage for your wedding day.
    You will cherish those photographed moments before you say your vows.
  • Exchange gifts or write each other letters to read before the ceremony.
  • Have your guests throw petals as you recess down the aisle. It FEELS celebratory and looks
    amazing on camera!
  • Keep things relatively traditional. For example: still have a cake table and toasts, toss your bouquet, share a first dance, and dance with your mom or dad. You don’t have to forgo these memories.

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