You ask: What is a Micro Wedding?

What Is a Micro Wedding? Meaning, Guest Count, Cost & Planning Tips

Introduction

If you’re exploring wedding options and feeling torn between a traditional wedding and an elopement, you may have heard the term micro wedding. But what exactly is a micro wedding, and how does it differ from an elopement or a small wedding?

As an Eau Claire, WI wedding photographer, I help couples discover how micro weddings create intimate, intentional, and meaningful celebrations without the stress of a large guest list.

This fun blog post covers the meaning of a micro wedding, typical guest counts, costs, and planning considerations to help you decide if it’s right for your special day.

What Is a Micro Wedding?

A micro wedding usually includes 10–30 guests. It contains many traditional wedding elements, a ceremony and reception, and personal touches, while keeping the celebration small and intimate.

Micro weddings strike a balance between elopements and small weddings, offering both intimacy and celebration.

Micro Wedding vs Elopement

Key differences include:

  • Number of guests

  • Type of venue

  • Overall structure of the day

Elopements often focus on location and the couple’s experience, while micro weddings maintain a small guest list with more structured events.

Cost of a Micro Wedding

Expenses vary based on:

  • Venue choice

  • Catering and entertainment

  • Vendor services

Micro wedding packages or all-inclusive options can simplify planning while staying within budget.

Is a Micro Wedding Right for You?

Micro weddings suit couples who:

  • Want loved ones present

  • Desire an intimate experience

  • Value quality and personalization over size

They’re ideal for couples planning local or small destination weddings.

In all…

Micro weddings provide intimacy, flexibility, and meaningful moments. If you’re unsure whether to elope or host a small wedding, consider a micro wedding as a perfect middle ground.

Check out our complete comparison: Elopement vs Small Wedding — Which Is the Perfect Option for You?

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Simple Planning Guide: How to Elope Instead of a Wedding

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Top Small Wedding Venues & Elopement Ideas: Plan Your Intimate, Unforgettable Celebration