Why Small Weddings Are Making A Big Impression

Shelling out thousands of dollars to throw yourself a party may not be the best way to start a new life. It’s become common for couples to take out loans to pay for the big day and that debt will follow them as they consider making other large purchases like cars, homes, and nursery necessities. 

Because of this, a growing number of Millennials are learning the value of simplicity. We’re realizing that smaller weddings can make a big impression and offer the same fairytale ending as big extravagant occasions. A micro wedding can still be gorgeous and special – just with a smaller price tag.

Small Weddings Are More Intimate 

A smaller venue with only the bride and groom’s closest friends and family offers a more personable scene. These are better for handwritten vows, tender pictures, and close relationships. 

When my husband and I were planning our wedding, a small event just made more sense for us. My husband has PTSD. He doesn’t like large crowds because they’re loud and often unpredictable. We both try to avoid getting drunk in public because it’s just not something we see as classy. A smaller ceremony and reception were perfect for our lifestyle. 

Flexibility with Less Drama

Limiting guests also limits drama. Instead of stressing over inviting EVERYONE so no one gets offended, my husband and I just told people, “We want to keep things small,” and that did the trick. 

I have a big Irish family. My husband has cousins I’ve never even met. With so many people to think about, I can’t imagine how anxious and frustrating wedding planning would have been if we had opted for a large celebration. 

Instead, we chanced to find a cute little cottage that offered elopements and small wedding packages. The backyard was prepared with archways and benches. Its rustic beauty captivated us and there were no seating charts to worry over. Best of all we avoided anxiety about potential fights or issues with cousins whom we hadn’t seen in years. We could just focus on each other. 

Don’t Break the Bank

In 2019, the average wedding cost was $28,000. That would buy a car, a piece of land, or make for a great nest egg. Last year, couples significantly lowered their expenses to $19,000, but that’s still a large price tag. 

On average, couples pay about half of their wedding expenses. That offers a great deal of help, but for those of us who had to pay on our own or just want to keep things simple, small weddings are easily covered and enjoyed. This leaves more funding for a honeymoon or newlywed home. It frees up income for other life decisions and prevents budget squabbles. 

Remember, whether you spend $20,000 or $2,000 on your wedding ceremony and reception, the focus – your marriage and your new life together – is still the same.

Closing Thoughts

How a couple ties the knot sets the course for their new life together. Everyone is different and there are plenty of options to choose from. 

My husband and I will be celebrating our fourth wedding anniversary this fall. We love to break out the photo album and re-light the wedding candles to reminisce. Small weddings might not be the Hollywood ideal of a fairytale ending, but they offer just as many opportunities to live “happily ever after.” 

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