How to Plan a Small Wedding

A Meaningful Celebration Without the Stress

Weddings don’t have to be extravagant to be unforgettable. In fact, a small wedding—typically with 50 guests or fewer—can be more intimate, affordable, and focused on what truly matters: celebrating love with those closest to you. Whether you're drawn to the simplicity of a minimalist ceremony or you're trying to stay within a tight budget, planning a small wedding can offer freedom and flexibility that larger events often lack.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan a small wedding that’s just as special, stress-free, and deeply personal.

Define Your Vision

Start by asking yourselves:

• What kind of atmosphere do we want? (Casual? Elegant? Rustic?)

• Do we prefer an indoor venue or something outdoors?

• What are the must-haves vs. nice-to-haves?

With fewer people to accommodate, you can focus more on meaningful details that reflect your personalities.

Set a Realistic Budget

A small wedding doesn’t automatically mean cheap, but it does offer more control over your spending. Set your priorities:

• Will you splurge on a gourmet meal or a designer dress?

• Can you skip things like a big cake or printed invitations?

Your budget should reflect what matters most to you as a couple.

Curate Your Guest List Carefully

One of the hardest parts of planning a small wedding is narrowing the guest list. Be intentional:

• Start with immediate family and closest friends.

• Consider a rule of thumb: if you haven’t spoken to someone in over a year, they probably don’t need an invite.

• Be prepared to explain your decision kindly to extended family or coworkers.

Choose the Right Venue

With a smaller guest count, your venue options widen significantly:

• A cozy restaurant or local bistro

• A family backyard

• A boutique hotel

• A beach, park, or mountaintop for an outdoor ceremony

Look for a space that suits your style and comfortably fits your guests without feeling empty or overcrowded.

Simplify the Ceremony and Reception

Small weddings offer the chance to ditch rigid formalities. Some ideas:

• Walk down the aisle together

• Let a friend or family member officiate

• Host a dinner party-style reception with personalized toasts and casual conversation

You can also combine the ceremony and reception into one seamless event.

Focus on Personal Touches

Details matter more when the scale is smaller:

• Handwritten notes for each guest

• Custom playlists instead of a DJ

• Locally-sourced food and drinks

• DIY or meaningful décor like family heirlooms or handmade centerpieces

These little things create a warm, memorable experience.

Consider Hiring a Planner (Even for Small Weddings)

Just because it’s small doesn’t mean it’s stress-free. A day-of coordinator or part-time planner can help you:

• Stay organized

• Manage timelines

• Troubleshoot logistics (especially for at-home weddings)

Even minimal planning help can go a long way in making your day smooth and enjoyable.

Capture the Moments

Don’t skimp on photography or videography if it’s in your budget. A good photographer will:

• Capture candid moments between you and your guests

• Make your small wedding feel just as grand in pictures

If a professional photographer isn’t feasible, ask a talented friend or use a high-quality phone camera with thoughtful planning.

Final Thoughts

Planning a small wedding is all about quality over quantity. With fewer moving parts, you have the freedom to slow down, be present, and enjoy the process. Focus on what feels authentic to you and your partner, and don’t be afraid to let go of traditions that don’t resonate.

A small wedding isn’t a compromise—it’s a powerful choice to prioritize connection, meaning, and love. Sweetheart Weddings, located in Loveland, Colorado, might be just the perfect option for you and your sweetheart!