As 2020 draws to a close, it looks like changes in wedding ceremonies will extend into 2021. Small and intimate, and outdoors if possible, are the keys to wedding ceremonies where family and guests can celebrate safely. Here are our best tips to plan an intimate wedding.
Cut the Guest List To Family and Close Friends Only
Everyone will understand why your third cousins and your parents business partners won’t be included in your wedding. Trim your guest list to just close family and best friends. An intimate wedding allows couples to focus on making the ceremony personal and meaningful. It also frees up the budget to show more appreciation to guests, spend more time with them at the reception, and splurge on some extras like more flowers or a special dessert table.
Lose the Bridesmaids and the Groomsmen
An intimate wedding doesn’t need a big parade of attendants. One best friend to serve as maid or matron of honor, and best man (or bridesman and groomswoman) is fine for an intimate event. Siblings can serve, or that one lifelong pal that has been with you through thick and thin.
Choose a Small Venue
A small wedding can get swallowed up in a big hall. Find a venue with very limited capacity, or an outdoor location that can be set up to accommodate your trimmed guest list, where everyone gets a great view. If there is a location that is especially meaningful to you, like the park where you met or by the shores of the lake where you became engaged, return there for the ceremony.
A lovely way to plan an intimate wedding is to transform your own backyard into a magical, intimate venue with a tent rental. Tents For Rent provides year-round wedding tent rentals in Pennsylvania. Tents can be heated in cold weather.
Write Your Own Vows
Many like to have the traditional words spoken by the officiant, but adding your own vows expressing your love and devotion in heartfelt words will draw your family and friends into the moment in a very memorable way. You honor each other and your guests by sharing your feelings for each other with them.
Provide Personalized Favors
You’ve chosen your nearest and dearest to witness your marriage. Show your appreciation with handwritten place cards and party favors chosen specifically for each guest. Everyone should receive a keepsake to take home with them to remember your special day, whether it’s a seashell from the beach you were married on, or a decorated pinecone from the forest venue you chose. Make goody bags that reflect your style as a couple. Include your favorite chocolates, and a personal note thanking your guests and telling them how special it was to have them witness your event.