When it comes to weddings, size matters — but a bigger wedding is not always better. There are perks to a small wedding, including a more intimate affair and budget-friendly planning. Yet, when figuring out how many guests is considered a small wedding, everyone seems to have their own idea of what qualifies as “small.”
For some, a small wedding means a cozy backyard gathering with family members and a handful of close friends; for others, it might mean a chic event with under 50 wedding guests in a small wedding venue. But where exactly do we draw the line between an intimate wedding, a micro wedding, a medium wedding, and a big wedding? We break it all down.
What You Will Learn
How Many Guests Is Considered a Small Wedding?
The question of what is considered a small wedding doesn’t have one universally accepted answer. Yet, most experts and planners agree that a small wedding typically includes anywhere from 20 to 50 wedding guests. If your guest list falls below 20 attendees, it often enters the realm of a t, an even more intimate affair. On the other hand, a medium wedding usually includes between 50 and 150 guests, and large weddings often have guest counts exceeding 150, according to Martha Stewart.
But the guest count isn’t the only defining factor of a smaller-scale wedding. There’s also the atmosphere and the personal connections shared among those present. Often, what makes a wedding feel “small” is the ability to engage meaningfully with each guest that adds to a small size wedding. It’s about quality over quantity, and that focus creates a truly memorable experience.
Why Choose a Small Wedding?
Choosing a small wedding isn’t just about cutting costs — it’s about creating an experience that feels intentional and deeply personal. Smaller weddings with fewer guests allow couples to invest more time, attention, and money into the aspects of their day that truly matter to them.
With fewer logistical challenges and less pressure to entertain a massive crowd, couples can savor their wedding day without feeling stretched too thin. From thoughtfully chosen wedding vendors to a handpicked guest list, every detail becomes more meaningful. Here are some other benefits of a more intimate affair:
- Cost-effective: A smaller guest list means fewer mouths to feed and fewer chairs to rent, which can dramatically reduce your wedding budget.
- More personal: With fewer guests, you’ll have time to connect with each attendee.
- Greater venue options: Smaller celebrations open up opportunities for unique small wedding venues that might not accommodate larger crowds.
- Less stressful: With a smaller wedding party and fewer logistics to manage, the planning process becomes more streamlined.
What Does a Small Wedding Look Like?
A small wedding doesn’t have one set format—it’s as diverse and unique as the couples planning it. Traditionally, small weddings still have the traditional components of a standard event but are adapted to a more intimate setting. That includes exchanging vows, a cocktail hour, dinner, a dance floor, and a wedding photographer to capture every moment.
But beyond those parameters, there are ways to get creative with small weddings. Here are some ideas:
- Garden brunch
- Candlelit dinner party
- Seaside wedding ceremony
- Destination wedding with just immediate family
- Backyard event with lights and elegant tablescapes
Tips For Sticking to a Small Guest List
Crafting a guest list for a small wedding can feel like walking a tightrope — you want to include everyone who matters while still keeping the gathering intimate and manageable. But with careful planning and a good checklist, you can stick to your vision without hurting anyone’s feelings.
First, start by considering your wedding venue’s capacity. Many intimate spaces will
naturally limit your guest count, making your decisions easier. Additionally, choosing a weekday or non-traditional wedding date can naturally reduce attendance based on availability without requiring difficult conversations. When communicating your plans to others, kindness and transparency always go a long way. Here are tips to keep in mind:
- Know your venue limits: Smaller venues, such as boutique hotels or private villas, naturally limit your guest count, helping you keep numbers in check.
- Be strategic with your wedding date: Weekday weddings or celebrations during off-peak seasons can naturally reduce your guest list without awkward conversations.
- Offer a thoughtful explanation: If someone questions why they weren’t invited, be honest yet kind. Something like, “We’re keeping things intimate and wish we could invite everyone we love,” usually does the trick.
- Consider virtual options: Live streaming your wedding ceremony or sharing a same-day video piece can include those who couldn’t attend in person.
How to Make a Small Wedding Feel Special
There’s a unique beauty in the simplicity of a small wedding, not to mention being more friendly to your wedding budget. But that doesn’t mean it has to feel any less special. Consider some of these ideas to make your intimate wedding even more unique and customized:
- Share personalized notes: Leave handwritten thank-you notes at each guest’s seat to make them feel truly valued. You could also extend this idea to handwritten invitations and dinner menus.
- Write your own vows: Without a huge crowd watching, you might feel more comfortable sharing deeply personal vows.
- Bring your pets: With fewer guests, there’s more room for your beloved dog or cat to be part of the day.
- Invest in elevated details: With a smaller guest list to accommodate, you can
Small Weddings FAQs
What’s a Small Wedding and Do I Need a Wedding Planner?
A small wedding typically includes a guest list of 20-50 people, but what’s considered a small wedding can vary based on personal preferences and cultural norms. Small weddings are often easier to plan, budget-friendly, and provide more flexibility when choosing venues, catering options, and personalized details. While not essential, a wedding planner can help ensure a smooth execution of your wedding day.
How Many Guests Are Considered a Small Wedding?
Typically, a small wedding has 20-50 wedding guests and includes friends and a limited amount of extended family.
What Is Considered a Small Wedding vs. What Is Considered an Intimate Wedding?
A wedding is generally considered small if the guest list remains under 50 attendees. What is considered a small wedding can differ depending on the venue and overall scale of the event. On the other hand, an intimate wedding or a micro wedding usually involves 20 or fewer guests, creating a warm and personal atmosphere.
Protect Your Special Day with Wedding Insurance
Whether big or small, your wedding day is one of the most important moments of your life — but sometimes, life throws unexpected curveballs.
Don’t leave your special day to chance — secure your wedding with insurance that has your back. BriteCo’s wedding insurance policies protect against unforeseen circumstances and help ensure your event is safeguarded. Learn more and get your personalized wedding insurance quote now.
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