If you're looking to get married without breaking the bank or just want a quiet wedding day with your nearest and dearest, give these tips a look.
One of the best weddings I've been to consisted of 20 people total. The ceremony was held at an idyllic vineyard and the reception took place in a private dining area at a popular restaurant in a nearby city. The entire day was spent enjoying the company of men and women we'd all known for years and watching our friends tie the knot without pageantry or theatrics, which made the event all the more special.
If you and your spouse-to-be are opting for a smaller wedding, yet still want a venue, fun, and food, these ideas will assist in your wedding planning.
Keep the Wedding and Reception in the Same Place
By having your ceremony and reception at the same location, you cut down on frustrating travel logistics.
Make the Guest List Iron-Clad
Parents, grandparents, siblings, and close friends should be the only ones in attendance. This may hurt some feelings, but remember this day is about you and your loved one, not anyone else.
Hire a Solo Musician or Create Wedding Playlist
When you enlist a harpist, guitarist, or violinist for the day, you get to enjoy live, lilting music from the ceremony through the wedding meal. Alternatively, compile a wedding playlist with your favorite love songs and put a Bluetooth speaker to good use.
Enlist a Local or Family-Owned Restaurant to Cater
If you and your intended have a favorite local restaurant, have them cater your big day. Serve the food buffet style and enjoy the family picnic!
Set Up Lawn Games
If you're hosting an outdoor wedding, an alternative to a traditional reception would be to incorporate lawn games. Giant Jenga, oversized Connect Four, Corn Hole, or badminton are all great choices to keep guests entertained. This is especially amusing if the bride or groom can be described as competitive!
Keep Flowers to a Minimum
Whether it's just one bouquet and a boutonniere or a wristband corsage, what you choose to invest in your flowers is entirely up to you. Your guests won't remember the centerpieces, but they will remember all the fun they had spending the day celebrating your special day.
Any other ideas we missed on our list? Sound off in the comments below.