We’ve long known about the magic of a small wedding, but with the ever changing restrictions throwing smaller celebrations into the spotlight recently, we’re here to answer the number one question – is it really possible to achieve the same wedding day magic on such a small scale? (spoiler alert, the answer is YES).
The Guest List
Having a smaller number of people on your guest list, means the time you spend greeting people will be much less, so the interactions you will have will really count. When you are sharing your day with the people you love most in the world, you want to ensure you can spend real quality time with them.
If you are struggling with guest numbers, remember that there are others way that people can share in the happiness of your day. Consider video streaming the ceremony – registrars and celebrants have become quite used to including virtual guests in proceedings over the last 18 months! Alternatively, hire a really great videographer and you’ll forever have your special day captured on film.
Of course, you can always make the most of the occasion and plan a second ‘reception’ – a larger party at a later date, giving people the opportunity to celebrate with you, minus financial implications of catering for everyone – creating the perfect screening opportunity for your wedding film.
Roisin and Adam’s beautiful blue sky Treseren wedding, captured by Ben Radley
The details
Just because the wedding is small, it doesn’t mean the details have to be less than fabulous. A smaller guest list can be much more budget friendly, allowing you to spend elsewhere, whether that means an extensive 7 course tasting menu, or an elaborate floral arch to frame your ceremony space. Sharing the day with your very closest loved ones means you can really include everyone in your plans, whether that means gifting truly personalised wedding favours, or planning their involvement in the ceremony itself. Perhaps a guest with musical talent could play the entrance song, or a great public speaker could officiate a portion of the ceremony? Outside of the legal wording, your celebrant or registrar will happily work with you to create a truly bespoke ceremony, and this can be all the more special with a smaller group.
At Treseren weddings, the wedding meal is often a big focus of the day, so planning a beautiful tablescape can really elevate the occasion. However few or many the guests, beautiful florals, romantic candelight and bespoke stationary always feels incredibly special.
Do we still stick to wedding traditions?
If there is a certain wedding tradition that you would like to uphold on your big day, then go for it. Whether that is sleeping separately the night before the wedding and not seeing each other until the ceremony, or making sure your something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue are all accounted for.
However, if you would rather throw the rule book out of the window and create your own traditions – then why not! Maybe you want to go for a surf lesson together in the morning, you may choose to walk down the aisle together, or maybe the family dog will be delivering your rings – anything is possible!
The Dress
In short, there is absolutely no reason why you should change your wedding dress plans if you are considering having a smaller wedding. This should always be a personal choice, reflecting your own personal style – the only difference is that each guest will really get to appreciate how fabulous you look. Of course, the same applies to groom outfits – if you want to wear a flamboyant velvet suit with paisley detail, then now is absolutely the time to do so.
Choosing to have a small wedding should always be seen as a positive decision – it means that you can create a truly personal celebration of your love for one another, shared with those closest to you.
For more information about Treseren small weddings, you can request our Wedding Brochure here
Visit our Instagram for many more examples of beautiful small weddings that are big on style.
Photo Credits –
Steven Prebble Photography
Art by Design Photography
Lyra and Moth
Joe Burford
Harriet Clare
Paul Massey
Paul Caddis
Robin Goodlad
Thomas Frost
