Eloping Vs Micro Weddings | A Guide to Understanding Both

In this blog post we will be sharing the differences and benefits between an Elopement and Micro-Weddings and what the buzz is all about! We know first-hand how stressful the decision-making can get for engaged couples looking to plan their Small Wedding or Elopement. So here ya go!

Discover the Rise of Elopements

Over the past five years, elopements have soared in popularity, offering couples a unique and personal way to say "I do." As wedding traditions evolve, eloping presents an exciting alternative to traditional ceremonies. Now couples are considering whether a traditional wedding is right for them.

There are a few terms that have gained more popularity especially recently, for example Micro Weddings and Elopements.

Elopements

Eloping is traditionally whisking away with your lover and getting married somewhere like the courthouse or somewhere special!

Elopement [ ih-lohp-muhnt ] a noun - an act or instance of running off secretly, as to be married.

While we mentioned above the traditional meaning of an elopement - we can confidently say that the meaning of “elopement” can be viewed slightly differently for a-lot of people nowadays. Not to worry, you can still “run away and get eloped”. You’d be surprised to learn how many couples simply ditch everything, hire an officiant and photographer somewhere of their choosing and perform an elopement ceremony in a dreamy destination wedding or elopement location.

Beyond Boundaries: Destination Elopements

Modern elopements have taken on a new twist, embracing the allure of destination ceremonies. Couples now opt for elopements in dreamy locations, with a small circle of cherished guests (typically 1-15 people) joining them in celebration.

Your Personalized Love Story

Embarking on an elopement journey means crafting a personal and intimate experience that truly reflects your love story. It's a chance to create cherished memories with those closest to you, capturing candid moments that embody the essence of your relationship.

Unveil the magic of elopements, where intimate moments and meaningful connections take center stage. Consider this modern wedding trend as you embark on your journey of small wedding planning.

Micro Weddings

The textbook definition of a Micro Wedding (https://www.brides.com/story/how-to-throw-a-microwedding )A micro wedding is an intimate affair, typically with no more than 50 guests. They still feature time-honored traditions that make a wedding but on a much smaller scale.

In our own words: A micro-wedding is smaller than your traditional wedding, it is up to 50 guests, no subsequent ceremony or reception party later, this is it right here! It’s basically a smaller scaled wedding. A micro- wedding still has all or most of the components of a “traditional wedding” which include getting ready, wedding party, cocktail hour and reception.

Micro Weddings have been on the rise just as much as Elopements - it’s the perfect mix of a more intimate event while still having most of your loved ones and friends there for your day like you would a regular wedding. Not to mention it’s easier on your wallet than a traditional wedding event of up to 200 guests. Couples now can splurge a bit more on things that matter more to them that they might not be able to do with a larger event. For example ; more wiggle room for more florals, that one dream cake company you saw, or even better - the honeymoon of your dreams.

Embracing Intimacy: The Essence of Micro Weddings

Discover the allure of micro weddings, where love shines brightest in the company of your closest circle. With a guest count capped at 50, these intimate celebrations offer a charming contrast to grand affairs.

Meaningful Memories, Intimate Focus

A smaller guest count allows you to focus on what truly matters: the meaningful moments that reflect your journey as a couple. Your micro-wedding becomes a canvas for authentic expressions of love and togetherness.

Your Dream Day, Redefined

As you plan a small wedding, consider the enchanting world of micro weddings. These celebrations redefine your special day, emphasizing cherished connections and heartfelt moments.

How to decide between an Elopement vs. Micro Wedding

Deciding whether to elope or do a micro wedding is a very personal decision that might take some time to figure out and that’s okay! Here are some tips that might help!

To figure out which one is the right fit follow these three easy steps!

1. Create a budget. Figure out your max spending amount. Is it $15k? $5k? Once your budget is set and you calculate how much your basic necessary services are (Officiant, Photo, Location, Dress, Hair + Make up, etc) You will then have a much better idea on which route is best.

2. Write out your expectations for what your ideal wedding day would be and see which route would be comparable. Where do you see yourself getting married? What do you “have to have” at your wedding / elopement?

3. Nail down guest list. Take the time to write out your guest list of must-have people for your day and see which number you come up with!

Once you have figured out the answer from all three steps above, you should have a much better idea of which type of event would best suit your needs. We hope that helped!

Friendly reminder that it’s your wedding day, so do it your way. There is no wrong way to get married, every couple is different in their own amazing way, and that’s the best part! Whether you opt for a private elopement or an intimate micro wedding, your love story will be front and center. May your journey be as beautiful as the commitment you've chosen to make.

Still undecided on which route to go or looking for your dream destination photographer? Reach out today to get in touch with us and learn more!