Emma Mullins Photography

It’s a COVID-19 world, and I’m blogging on Sunday! After spending another would-be wedding weekend at home, I decided to write an ode to “Micro” weddings.

Understandably, many couples have decided to postpone their big wedding plans for brighter days ahead. Others, however, are opting to keep their original dates… with a few minor tweaks! Due to regulations for group gatherings (not to mention health and safety concerns), Micro Weddings are on the rise.

What exactly is a “Micro Wedding,” you ask? I’m referring to intimate ceremonies, elopements, or any small event where two people become married. This may include a handful of guests or just the couple and officiant (and/or witnesses if required).

Five Reasons to Have a Micro Wedding:

1. A relaxed wedding day. Honestly, this could be reason enough! Without a timeline to keep up with or 100+ people to coordinate, you’ll have a chance to really focus on each other. Enjoy your wedding day doing the things you love together… and take your time! This could mean waking up early to watch the sun rise or an impromptu ice cream break – just because.
2. Flexibility. Similarly, without a large group to accommodate, you’ll have more flexibility in terms of where you can get married. Meaning, instead of a trip to Marriage Court, you could tie the knot some place picturesque or meaningful. Ever think of getting married on your front porch? The place you first met? Locations pictured below include Montrose Harbor, Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool and New York City’s High Line.
3. Getting ready together. Okay, okay – you could do this with a big wedding, too. In my experience, however, it’s much more common with smaller, intimate ceremonies. I always LOVE when couples choose to do this! Besides, who else is going to zip your dress or pin your bouttonière if it’s just the two of you?
4. A personal guest experience. If you’re planning to have a handful of guests attend your wedding, this gives you the opportunity to really personalize their experience. At larger weddings, it’s not uncommon for newlyweds to miss greeting a guest or two – much less spend quality time with each and every one.
5. You can still celebrate BIG TIME later! It’s true! No matter what your reasons for downsizing the wedding day guest list, you can still throw the party of a lifetime months later. Once regulations loosen up and group gatherings are safe again, your guests will be MORE than eager to celebrate with you. Pinky swear.

Hope this has been helpful! Of course, a Micro Wedding isn’t for every couple, but if you’re considering it: know that your wedding day will be just as memorable. Just make sure you have a photographer there to capture it for you 🙂

Don’t believe me? See for yourself! Here’s a few favorites from Micro Weddings and Elopements I’ve had the pleasure to capture over the years. Links to full weddings and Additional Resources below!