Never in my 18 years of being in the wedding industry could I have predicted a year with so few weddings due to the coronavirus pandemic. After a few months of complete lockdown we are beginning to slowly see weddings commence again. Namely the micro wedding of up to *30 guests to fit in with the recent government guidelines.

*Please note as of the 23rd July we have not had clarification if it is indeed 30 guests or 30 people in total inc the suppliers

 

You just want to be married

I know there are many couples that simply want to get married and do not want to wait another year. For them having a smaller micro wedding and reception this year is perfect. Many couples are planning on a legal micro wedding this year following by a celebrant led ceremony and larger reception in 2021.

Prime dates are filling up in 2021 and churches and registrars might be already booked. Meaning couples could have to wait until 2022 to marry and for many they are not willing to wait this long. So having a small legal ceremony in 2020 and a personalised celebrant ceremony in 2021 with a large reception is the perfect solution.

Small is beautiful

Some couples never wanted a large reception but were forced into it by family or minimum numbers set by venues. So having a government restriction of 30 allows them to in essence have the wedding they always wanted. As we mention in a previous blog post , small is still beautiful and in fact you can splurge on the design to create stunning backdrops and features which when concentrated in a smaller area have an even greater impact. Think about your table settings and layer the design for even greater impact. Use luxurious linens and crockery to create an exquisite table design.

 

Tantalise your guest’s taste buds

Having an intimate wedding means you can have a menu created specifically you, and you don’t quite have to cater for the masses. In some instances this could be holding the meal at your favourite restaurant or hiring a private chef. It also enables you to go to town with the table settings to make the dining experience truly spectacular.

“Having a smaller scale wedding means the guests can be lavished with the best food and drink their budget can afford . The focus of the day is on the ceremony, guests and the food.”

Emily Andrew – Emily Andrew Weddings & Events

Personal

A micro wedding can feel more personal as you are exchanging your vows in front of those that truly are your A List. Your guests will be up close and personal as you exchange legal vows but with enough space to keep their social distance. Consider a set up that is circular with guests surrounding you. This allows the space that is needed but ensured everyone is an equal distance to hear you exchange your vows

“Small weddings are a wonderful opportunity to make your guests feel extra loved and appreciated, while also making time for YOU to truly experience the celebrations.“

Valentina – The Stars Inside

Best of both world

Get married in 2020 with your micro wedding AND have a larger celebration in 2021. Yes that’s right, it’s the perfect excuse to party twice!

Embrace technology

Consider setting up a live stream of your ceremony so those that couldn’t come can still see your vows. This could be to a private wedding facebook group or using a streaming platform like zoom. Hire a videographer to capture your micro wedding then play this at your large reception next year.

 

Photo Credits

Intimate London Pub Styled shoot organised by member One Oake, full credits can be seen here. Photographed by Camilla J Hards 

Styled Shoot by Always Andri (Photographer is Maxeen Kim , Flowers by Wildwood London

Wedding In Sicily, organised by Marry Me in Sicily, Photo by Lana Alvano

Ceremony by White Rose Ceremonies, organised by Stylish Events