40 Small Wedding Ideas for an Intimate Affair

Bride and groom exchanging vows overlooking the Amalfi Coast with small number of guests sitting in front of them — Photo by Aberrazioni Cromatiche Studio

Does gathering 200 friends and family members together on your wedding day seem like an overwhelming thought? Eloping might have crossed your mind, but perhaps exchanging vows without any of your favorite people present isn’t the solution either. If you prefer intimate gatherings over big crowds, you might want to host your nuptials on a much smaller scale. Small weddings are generally between 30 and 60 guests, while a very small wedding, or a micro wedding, consists of 20 or fewer guests. However, what one couple considers “small” might not be the exact definition that another duo has in mind—so what constitutes a small wedding is ultimately up to you.

The benefits of throwing a small wedding are endless. A more intimate affair will allow you to focus on personalization, thereby creating a more meaningful experience for you and your guests. At large weddings, many couples find themselves bopping around to different groups of people, so they’re never able to fully connect with their favorite people. Small weddings, on the other hand, give you the ability to spend more quality time with loved ones. Not to mention, since you’ll be feeding fewer heads, you’ll lower the overall bill, or you’ll have more room within your budget to splurge on some of your top priorities.

Just because you’re shrinking your event down to a cozy size doesn’t mean you have to skimp on any of the details. In fact, fewer guests and a bigger budget means you can go all out on some of your decorations and activities, whether it’s an interactive drink display at cocktail hour, a statement overhead installation at your reception, or a fireworks show at the end of the evening. Scaling back your guest list also means you’ll have to think strategically about your venue, floor plan, timeline, and any other logistics.

Below, we cover all of the planning details you’ll need to keep in mind, plus inspiration for dressing up your event and using the space wisely, according to wedding planners. Ahead, 40 small wedding ideas for an intimate affair.

01 of 40

Consider a Restaurant Venue

A booth table in a restaurant venue with white linens, wooden chargers, plates of salad, a floral centerpiece, and hanging globe lights — Photo by Red October Photography

Fewer people on your guest list means the world is your oyster when it comes to choosing a nontraditional venue, and a restaurant may be the perfect fit. “They're unique spaces that have everything you need in one place,” says planner Jove Meyer of Jove Meyer Events. Consider a spot that you and your partner love to frequent, so you can share the ambience and the cuisine with your friends and family. Since restaurants often have restrictions on decorations, be sure that the style of the interior and the existing décor resonates with you.

02 of 40

Host at the Family Home

Groom kissing the bride's cheek while they're sitting on the front steps of their home in Brooklyn, which is decorated with orange flowers — Photo by Clean Plate Pictures

For a cozy and low-maintenance setting, consider throwing your wedding in the backyard of your house, your childhood home, or a family member's property. "I love the sentiment of having an intimate affair in a place that is meaningful to the couple," shares planner Luke Wilson of Luke Wilson Events. With a small group, everyone will be able to fit comfortably in the space and learn more about your background. If your guest list falls on the higher end of the spectrum, closer to 60, you might want to consider renting bathrooms.

03 of 40

Choose an Airbnb

Airbnb living room in Connecticut with a pink velvet couch and colorful flowers — Photo by Sylvie Rosokoff

Selecting an Airbnb venue is a small wedding idea that may fit all of your needs. Planner Tiffany Rivera of Simply Breathe Events suggests looking into beautiful private homes on the rental market because they give you the flexibility to move between spaces. Plus, they help make your wedding day really cost-efficient. Make sure you check with the host of your preferred Airbnb before booking since some properties don't allow gatherings, like weddings.

04 of 40

Find a Small Space in a Large Venue

bride and groom exchanging vows in the Courtyard at Boston Public Library with guests sitting in a line — Photo by Emily Wren Photography

If you're thinking about going the more traditional route with your venue, whether it's a ballroom or an industrial loft, the site probably has unexpected spaces that are ideal for small celebrations. “Consider areas that are often overlooked, like the library of a large historic estate,” planner Francie Dorman of 42 North suggests. Courtyards, theaters, or smaller galleries are also great options.

05 of 40

Throw a Destination Wedding

Amalfi Coast setting with houses built into a cliff overlooking the ocean — Photo by Aberrazioni Cromatiche Studio

With an intimate guest list, you have more leeway to throw a weekend of events in an exotic place. Since your friends and family will have to travel to the locale and spend money on airfare and accommodations, hosting a destination wedding doesn't make sense with a large group; getting married outside of your hometown is more suited for a smaller-scale celebration. Consider this choice if you and your partner love to travel or if there's a location that is significant to your relationship.

06 of 40

Hire a Day-Of Coordinator

wedding guests walking along the grass toward a tented reception at outdoor cocktail hour — Photo by Ryan Ray

Wedding planners or day-of coordinators aren't just for large weddings. “It’s also a great idea to hire a wedding planner even if it’s only for day-of coordination,” Rivera notes. “You’ll want someone there to facilitate the flow of the day, so you can enjoy it instead of worrying about whether alcohol is running low.”

07 of 40

Invest in Your Photographer

A wedding photographer taking photos of the bride and groom using a vintage camera — Photo by Hugo Coelho Photography

A talented photographer with years of experience is definitely an investment, no matter how many guests attend your function. But, the best photographers will be able to capture all of the emotional moments that small weddings have to offer, so you might want to consider splurging. “With fewer people at the table, your guests will really relax, creating an intimate atmosphere,” Dorman explains. “Hire a trusted photographer who will capture the laughter, the tears, and the clinking glasses, since those are the moments you’ll treasure most.”

08 of 40

Strategically Plan Your Guest List

Intimate outdoor wedding reception table with white draping — PHOTO BY O'MALLEY PHOTOGRAPHERS

A small wedding only exists if the guest list is intimate, which means you'll have to make some tough decisions about who to invite. “Look through your text messages and calls, and only invite those you’ve spoken to within the last three months,” Meyer advises. If you're having a hard time narrowing down your guest list, ask yourself if you would take this person out for a nice dinner or have them stay in your home for a weekend. "Thinking about how close your relationships are will help ensure you are truly comfortable with those you surround yourselves with on your wedding day,” planners Aleah and Nick Valley of Valley & Company Events say.

09 of 40

Mail Handwritten Invitations

An invitation flatlay with handwritten invitations featuring gold foil and vow booklets — Photo by Clary Pfeiffer Photography

With fewer guests on your list, you'll have more bandwidth to go the extra mile, like sending handwritten invitations with beautiful lettering instead of printing hundreds. You might even skip the formal invitations and call each of your guests on the phone to share the news.

10 of 40

Gift a Welcome Box

Wooden wedding welcome box with a wine bottle, a monogrammed toiletry, and paper products — Photo by Ryan Ray

Whether you're hosting a destination wedding, a weekend-long celebration, or an intimate evening party, arranging welcome bags is a personalized small wedding idea that will set your event apart. Incorporate items that represent your relationship, like a hat branded with the logo of your favorite sports team or merchandise monogrammed with your initials. You can also bring in influences from your locale, such as snacks and drinks from a local market.

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Make a Day-Of Timeline

sunshine-inspired signage that leads guests to outdoor wedding ceremony — Photo by Rachel May Photography

No matter the size, having a timeline for your wedding is something you won't want to forget. A detailed itinerary will keep the day's events running smoothly, which will eliminate unnecessary stress for you and everyone else. “So much thought goes into the details of a wedding, whether large or small, and a good timeline provides a framework that helps tell your story,” Nick and Aleah explain.

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Incorporate Pre-Wedding Events

Guests eating dinner at a long banquet table at a rehearsal dinner in Italy — Photo by Lisa Poggi

Whether you're tying the knot at a local venue or an overseas destination, hosting multiple events throughout the weekend provides numerous opportunities for your guests to bond. If you're inviting friends from all walks of life, plus family who lives around the country or the world, organizing a rehearsal dinner or welcome party will give everyone the chance to get to know one another better before the big day. After you get hitched, you can also host a farewell brunch, where your crew will continue connecting while reminiscing on the night before.

13 of 40

Select a Scenic Ceremony Site

A groom and the officiant standing at the altar overlooking the Tuscan countryside while guests sit in black chairs — Photo by Lisa Poggi

One small wedding idea is exchanging vows overlooking a scenic backdrop, like the rolling hills of Tuscany or the sparkling waters of Lake Como. Since you'll have fewer rows of heads at your ceremony, everyone in the group will have a clear, unobstructed view of the spectacular scenery. You can even switch up the traditional ceremony seating by arranging everyone in a semi-circle or one long line to guarantee visibility.

14 of 40

Write Your Own Vows

A bride reading her handwritten vows to her groom while getting emotional — Photo by Molly Carr Photography

Reciting personal vows can be intimidating in front of hundreds of people, especially if public speaking isn't your forte. With a smaller guest list, you might feel more comfortable opening up about the origins of your relationship and revealing information about your love story. Handwritten vows will also make your service feel more special for the attendees listening.

15 of 40

Integrate Symbolic Readings

bride and groom listening to their friend recite a reading during the ceremony — Photo by Sotiris Tsakanikas

Choosing special readings is another way to customize your ceremony and give your group a closer look at your union. If you're having a religious service, select Bible passages that speak to you. For more secular ones, ask a loved one to read your favorite poem, a passage from a book you love, or a quote from a treasured romantic-comedy.

16 of 40

Live Stream Your Ceremony

Bride and groom greeting their virtual guests via Zoom on a laptop after the ceremony — Photo by Du Soleil Photographie

Since you're only inviting a handful of people to your wedding, some of your friends and family might not fit the size requirement. If that's the case, consider live streaming your ceremony, so all of your nearest and dearest will be able to watch you and your partner become newlyweds. Have a member of your wedding party invite friends and family to a Zoom meeting before your nuptials. Then, have that person launch the call on a laptop before you walk down the aisle, so it will seem as if the virtual group is physically present.

17 of 40

Include an Interactive Drink Display

A bartender smoking glasses for the couple's Old Fashioned cocktails — Photo by Justine Milton Photography

A small wedding idea that will really wow your guests is an interactive cocktail moment. Since you'll have fewer people drinking, there are so many opportunities for statement-making presentations, like having your bartender smoke glasses for old fashioneds over an open flame. With a small crew, everyone will be able to gather around the demonstration and have a front-row view.

18 of 40

Name Your Signature Cocktails

Bar sign with illustration of dog and rabbit and an apple cider and cinnamon cocktail in the front — Photo by Olivia Leigh Photographie

If you're serving your beverages in a more traditional way, naming your signature cocktails will personalize your small wedding. Consider using your last name, your pets, your hometown sports team, or your wedding theme as a reference, which will all provide meaning. You can even add an illustration featuring the source of inspiration on your bar sign to complete the setup.

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Customize Your Napkins

Custom cocktail napkins with an illustration of cats and calligraphy — Photo by Rebecca Yale Photography

Fewer guests means freeing up more of your budget for additional details, so why not make it count? Including a custom cocktail napkin is a cute way to showcase what you and your partner love as a couple.

20 of 40

Organize an Immersive Culinary Experience

A vendor making balls of mozzarella at a food station at a wedding — Photo by Danilo & Sharon

Every cocktail hour needs an abundance of appetizers, even if your guest list errs on the smaller side. While passed hors d'oeuvres or a buffet of snacks are customary, an immersive experience, where a chef puts on a live demonstration, will be an unforgettable way to include guests in the festivities. If you're throwing an Italian-inspired fête, for example, set up a station where guests can learn how to make balls of mozzarella—and then munch on the finished product.

21 of 40

Distribute Single-Serve Appetizers

A plate of deli meats, cheese, fruit, and olives at each table setting — Photo by Kurt Boomer

With a more intimate celebration, large spreads of food will probably go to waste and hurt your wallet. Instead, skip the big displays and opt for single-serve appetizers distributed to each attendee. Every friend or family member will get their own plate of pre-portioned snacks to munch on, which will save you money and go a long way with your crowd.

22 of 40

Create a Lounge Area

Lounge seating with a rattan rug and ottomans beside a cabana on sand for beach wedding — Photo by Paige Jones Photography

At a small wedding, it's important to think about ways to keep your guests interacting with one another. “Guests will be sitting to catch up instead of cutting a rug, so create a lounge area where everyone can relax after dinner,” Wilson suggests. This is a great space to host a cocktail hour as well.

23 of 40

Elevate Your Escort Card Display

Bottles of homemade hot sauce with couple's wedding date lined on shelves for escort cards and favors — Photo by Megan Robinson

Creating an elaborate escort card display is such a fun way to include guests in your small-scale wedding. Opt for an arrangement with handwritten touches or use items that double as favors. Bonus points if you engrave the objects with your joint initials and wedding date, so your group will have a permanent reminder of your special day.

24 of 40

Opt for a Banquet Table

Having your friends and family sit at a long reception table will make your event feel more intimate and your guests feel more welcome and comfortable. "This will make everyone feel like family," Wilson says. Sitting at round tables spread throughout the room will create distance that doesn't work for a small-sized wedding, so opt for a single table instead.

25 of 40

Arrange a U-Shaped Table

courtyard wedding reception with u-shaped table arrangement topped with taper candles and greenery — Photo by Paola Colleoni

Another option is setting up a U-shaped table if you're having a plated dinner. This arrangement facilitates dinner conversation better than a banquet table since more of your guests will be facing one another. Not only does this shape encourage connection, but it also works well in a small space.

26 of 40

Use Table Linens

outdoor wedding tablescape with blue linen and eclectic mismatched glassware — Photo by Pat Furey Photography

Going all out with a stunning tablescape will definitely impress your small group of guests. You can also use your tabletop items to produce the right ambiance for your celebration. For instance, wrapping your tables in linens will provide a more anchored, cozy feel.

27 of 40

Go Bold With Florals

Fuchsia floral table runner with gold place settings at outdoor wedding reception — Photo by James and Jess

Since you won't be spending as much money on food and drinks, you might have more room in your budget to splurge on flowers, which are arguably one of the most important decorations at a wedding. Why not go big with statement arrangements? Nick and Aleah suggest covering the table in an abundance of low, ultra-lush blooms, paired with candles, for a vibrant display. Select in-season varieties, which are more affordable, so you can get more bang for your buck.

28 of 40

Decorate With Family Heirlooms

Silver candleabra on wedding reception table surrounded by ferns, flowers, candles, and glassware — PHOTO BY MELISSA OHOLENDT

Peppering in small, memorable touches is much simpler in a more petite space with fewer guests. Consider incorporating family heirlooms to make your day even more sentimental. Displaying an antique candelabra passed down from your grandmother or a collection of vintage china can also function as your something borrowed.

29 of 40

Play With Place Settings

Wedding reception place setting with pastel blue plates, gold candles, and blush florals — Photo by Eric Kelley

If you're hosting a seated dinner, consider designing a beautiful place setting for each guest. This is a great opportunity to go above and beyond, whether it's silk napkins or crystal glassware, while providing the basics, too. “Make sure your guests have enough elbow room at their place settings and easy access to the essentials (water, wine, and flatware),” Nick and Aleah advise.

30 of 40

Personalize Place Cards

oyster shell place cards and navy blue napkins at coastal wedding reception — Photo by Heather Waraksa

Place cards offer so much opportunity for customization, and with a smaller guest list, there are even fewer to make or purchase. Opt for a personalized touch by adding calligraphy to each one. Make them even more special by writing on something that ties into the theme of your wedding, such as oyster shells at a coastal affair.

31 of 40

Find Tailor-Made Poems

A place card for the father of the bride with a personalized poem printed on it — Photo by Michelle Scott Photography

Another small wedding idea is printing poems as your place cards. Find a poem that reminds you of each guest and paste it beneath their name. This thoughtful gesture will touch every one of your attendees and make them feel valued. As a bonus, your friends and family can take the poems home with them as a keepsake.

32 of 40

Feature Handwritten Menus

Menu featuring handwritten script placed on wooden table with moody flowers — Photo by Bella Wang Photography

Writing out your dinner menu in your own handwriting will imbue your tablescape with a special touch. A smaller wedding means you'll have fewer menus to write, so you'll have more time to accomplish this task. If you aren't sure whether your handwriting is up to snuff, you can also hire a calligraphy artist to do the honors.

33 of 40

Emphasize Innovative Lighting

String lights draped over a wedding reception table at an outdoor reception — Photo by Pablo Laguia

A smaller wedding means you can incorporate innovative lighting ideas that will enhance the atmosphere. A canopy of string lights floating above a banquet table at your outdoor reception will cast a warm, inviting glow over your evening and provide breathtaking photo ops. Meyers recommends thinking about how the lights will fit into the larger space, which entails envisioning how the decoration will look with plants, fabrics, and candles.

34 of 40

Add Hanging Arrangements

Long banquet table with an overhead installation of white flowers and gold wind chimes — Photo by Christina McNeill

Since smaller weddings provide more opportunities for guests to chat and connect, you'll probably want to leave room on the table for conversation. Instead of arranging towering centerpieces that can obstruct guests' view of one another and the rest of the space, consider suspending a hanging installation from the ceiling. An overhead arrangement will also make a larger room feel more intimate.

35 of 40

Splurge on Dinner

Carbone-inspired vodka rigatoni plated for wedding reception — Photo by Jose Villa

If you're not feeding a huge crowd, why not create a detailed menu? Whether you're wishing for a seven-course meal with expert wine pairings, an elaborate buffet, or a food truck on site, the options are infinite with a smaller wedding.

36 of 40

Book a Live Band

Newlyweds dancing in front of live band on a stage decorated with greenery at wedding reception — Photo by Heather Kincaid

Do you and your partner love hitting the dance floor? If so, you might want to invest in a live band. Having musicians put on a performance will bring the energy and keep the momentum going all night. Just make sure that you take into account the number of band members. “If your band has an equal number of players to your final guest count, it will feel really overpowering," Willson says. "Instead, hire a smaller group of musicians so you can have the formality of special dances without a crowd on stage."

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Be Thoughtful With Activities

Cornhole on lawn in front of lounge area for outdoor wedding reception — Photo by Ashley Caroline

For those who aren't big dancers, consider removing the dance floor from your layout or supplement dancing with other games and activities. Choose crowd pleasers that appeal to you, your partner, and most of your guests. Some ideas for your small wedding are lawn games, a live painter, or karaoke.

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Serve a One-Tier Cake

A single-tier white cake decorated with palette-knife flowers on a plate — Photo by Beyond Jade

You won't have as many mouths to feed with a small number of attendees, so skip a multi-tier cake in favor of a single-tier confection. You can still do the ceremonial cake cutting and trim the dessert with stunning decorations. If a tiered approach is in your vision, chat with your baker about ways to make it happen. They might be able to accommodate your request with smaller cake rounds, while maintaining the look of a traditional wedding cake.

39 of 40

Conclude the Festivities With a Show

Bride and groom watching a fireworks show at the end of their wedding night — Photo by Lacie Hansen Photography

Even if your wedding is small, you'll probably still want to end the night with a bang. To give your guests a lasting final impression, conclude the celebration with a fireworks show outside. For a more economical option, you can have your guests send you off with sparklers or line your exit with cold sparks.

40 of 40

Send a Wedding Announcement

Invitation peeking out of a beige envelope with a wax seal and feather accent — Photo by Laurken Kendall

Of course, everybody will want to know that you've tied the knot. For those who were not included on your small guest list, consider sending a wedding announcement or a handwritten note after you say "I do" as a small wedding idea. “Make a list of those who will want to know the big news, and send out a wedding announcement after the fact,” Wilson suggests.

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