When planning a micro wedding, cost is often at the forefront of discussion. Micro weddings, typically characterized by a smaller guest list of around 20 to 50 people, can offer a more personal and intimate experience. However, just because the guest list is smaller doesn’t necessarily mean the cost will be significantly less than a traditional wedding. In this blog post, we’ll explore various aspects of micro wedding expenses and offer advice on how to budget effectively.
Understanding the Cost of a Micro Wedding
The first step in planning a micro wedding is to understand where your money is likely going. Venue hire, catering, photography, attire, and decor are still part of the equation, albeit on a smaller scale. The good news is that with fewer guests, you may have more flexibility in choosing a unique venue that might be too small for a larger wedding, potentially saving on cost.
Choosing the Right Venue
Finding the perfect venue is crucial for any wedding, and micro wedding cost can vary greatly based on location. Opting for a weekday or off-season date can significantly reduce venue costs. Additionally, consider non-traditional spaces such as vacation rentals, local parks, or even a family member’s backyard for a more personal touch and potential savings.
Catering for a Smaller Crowd
With fewer mouths to feed, you might consider splurging on a more luxurious menu or bespoke dining experience. Personalization is key for micro weddings, and the reduced headcount allows you to be more creative with your catering choices. However, it’s still important to establish a budget to ensure you don’t overspend.
Photography and Videography
While you may have fewer guests, capturing the memories of your day is just as important. A smaller event doesn’t necessarily mean lower photography and videography costs, but you may be able to negotiate shorter coverage times with your vendors.
Attire and Beauty
Your wedding attire and beauty costs are often unaffected by the size of the wedding. However, a micro wedding might inspire you to choose a less traditional dress or suit that could be more cost-effective. Additionally, consider hair and makeup services that offer packages for smaller bridal parties.
Decor and Floral Arrangements
Decor is another area where you can control micro wedding cost. With fewer tables and a smaller venue, you may need fewer floral arrangements and decorations. This allows you to allocate more of your budget to statement pieces or lavish centerpieces if desired.
Entertainment and Extras
Entertainment costs can vary widely. A micro wedding might not require a full band, and a solo musician or small ensemble could provide a more intimate ambiance. Additionally, consider whether you want other extras like a photo booth, which might be less necessary with a smaller guest list.
Creating a Micro Wedding Budget
Once you’ve taken stock of the potential costs, it’s time to create a detailed budget. List all the elements of your wedding and allocate a maximum spend for each. Remember to include a contingency for unexpected expenses, as it’s not uncommon for costs to exceed initial estimates.
Personalizing Your Micro Wedding
Micro weddings provide an excellent opportunity to personalize your special day. From handwritten notes as place settings to customized favors, these small details can make your celebration feel incredibly special without inflating the budget.
Remember the Legalities
Don’t forget to account for any legal or administrative costs, such as marriage licenses or officiant fees. These are often fixed costs that won’t fluctuate with the size of your wedding.
Invest in Experiences
Finally, consider investing in experiences over things. With savings from a smaller guest list, you might allocate funds towards a special honeymoon or a memorable activity with your closest friends and family on the wedding day.