What is a micro Wedding?

Did you know that micro weddings are a thing? They are and they are gaining popularity for couples who don’t want to deal with a year of planning or are working within a budget.

If you want to get married to your partner, but don’t have the budget or time (or desire!) to plan a big wedding, a simpler option to consider is planning a Micro Wedding. A Micro Wedding is a way to keep things simple, but still include your closest friends and family. Planning a simple, small wedding is an opportunity to create a wedding day that has many personal touches and can also allow for some flexibility with where and when you decided to get married.

Here are some ideas I love for your micro wedding.

Find an AirBnB and plan a vacation for your family.

If having your families together in one place feels easy and fun, an AirBnB in a special location could be a good choice for you. This makes planning simple for your family members and is a great way to get quality time together around your wedding celebration. By choosing an AirBnB in an area that is a tourist destination, you can add include a few daily activities for your family. Make it feel like a true vacation by scheduling a private chef or catering company to come cook for you on your wedding day.

Talk to local businesses to see if they can support your small wedding.

Do some research as you select vendors. Some vendors may not want to travel for a small wedding, so look local. Hiring vendors who are familiar with your location and do not have to travel can reduce stress on your wedding day. Some vendors (like your photographer!) can also have plenty of experience to help you plan your event. Vendors to consider for a micro wedding: caterer, photographer, florist, videographer, officiant, and bakery.

Consider your own backyard.

Are you hoping to keep things very low budget? No problem, look no further than your own backyard! It doesn’t have to be fancy, you only need enough space to include your closest friends and family. Dress it up with market lights and flowers (maybe pick these up at the farmer’s market?). A backyard wedding is the most personal detail you can have on your wedding day. It’s also a great chance to host your loved ones and share your home. Consider renting chairs and tables to keep it easy and elevate the space to make it feel a bit more formal for your guests.

Involve your guests in the preparation.

Good news! Your loved ones want to share in your day and one way to do that is by letting them help. Even a Micro Wedding can involve a lot of details and running around. Have your sister grab the cupcakes. Ask dad to hang some lights. Let your best do your flower arranging. Assign a crew to set up and break down duties so it doesn’t all fall on you. OR, hire a planning team to ensure that you or your guests don’t have to worry about a thing!

Reserve an outdoor shelter or park space.

If you are planning a Mirco Wedding in Colorado, there are many beautiful outdoor locations that are available to rent. If Boulder you can see the list of shelters and park spaces here: https://bouldercolorado.gov/services/shelter-rentals Looking to have your ceremony in Summit County, consider Sapphire Point for easy access and stunning views. Here is the booking page: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234489

Self Solemnize in Colorado!

Something different about a Colorado wedding is that you do not have to have a person marry you and you aren’t require to have witnesses. You do need a license and can do this through the County Clerk office. Schedule an appointment, pick up your license (you’ll need ID and $30!), sign and make it back to that County Clerk office within 63 days. Poof! you are married!

Don’t let anyone guilt you out of this!

You might get some push back when you first present this idea, but if a micro wedding feels right for you… DO IT! It’s about your and your partner and not anyone else. Keeping it small and simple can create space for other things in your life that feel important… Put more money towards your honeymoon. Save for a deposit on a new home. Maybe you are getting ready to start a family and want to put your energy into that. Whatever your reason is for keeping things small and simple, the are your reasons and should be respected as your plan your wedding day.

Plan a party at a later date for friends and family who will want to celebrate you!

If you feel like you might want to keep your wedding private, you can consider doing something for all the important people in your life after your micro wedding. A wedding celebration is a good chance to share the photos from your small wedding and celebrate with your wider circle. A separate party can take the pressure off of your actual wedding day.