Photography: Erik Winter, Joy Zamora
Big feelings, small guest list. That’s the ethos behind the micro-wedding — a format that’s quietly (and stylishly) redefining what a wedding can look like. Especially among Gen Z couples, who are skipping the 300-person blowout in favor of meaningful moments, curated experiences, and having their actual favorite people in the room. And while these intimate 10-to-50-guest affairs may be scaled down in size, they’re often dialed way up in personality, aesthetic, and intention. So how do you plan one that feels deeply you, without losing the sense of celebration? We asked top wedding planners for their smartest micro-wedding strategies.
Photography: Charles Cave, Giulia Bernini / Couplet Photo
Start With Your Inner Circle
One of the best parts of a micro-wedding? The intimacy. Keep your guest list focused on the people who matter most to you and your partner, typically no more than 50. With only your closest circle present, the energy shifts from crowd control to genuine connection, giving the day the easy warmth of a cozy gathering. Instead of scanning a sea of faces, you’ll have the time and space to savor every moment and share it with each guest.
Laine Palm Designs, Alison Rose Events
Photography: Alanna Durkee, Nicole Ivanov
Make It a Destination
Bring your wedding to the world’s most stunning backdrops — Italy, Spain, the South of France, Morocco, Thailand, or any breathtaking corner of the world you’ve been dreaming of. A micro-wedding makes it possible to go all in on the location, turning the setting itself into the centerpiece of your celebration. Instead of stretching your budget across hundreds of guests, you can splurge on scenery and atmosphere. As the seasoned team of wedding planners at Studio White notes, “With a smaller guest list, you’ll have the flexibility to explore more unique and memorable venues around the world.”
Splendido, Alison Rose Events / Catherine Marie Taylor
Choose an Unexpected Venue
For bigger impact, get creative with your venue. Wedding planner Alison Rose Chang, the driving force behind Alison Rose Events, suggests choosing a venue with soul. “An intimate celebration means your venue can be anywhere: your family’s home, an art gallery, bookstore, or even a chic coffee shop or restaurant in Los Angeles,” she says. “The magic comes from choosing a space that feels authentic, a place where the architecture, landscape, and your story align.”
Giulia Bernini, Studio White
Photography: Couplet Photo, Maria Bell
Prioritize Experience Over Size
Think experience, not scale. A micro-wedding gives you the chance to design something immersive and personal from start to finish. That might look like personalized travel concierge for your guests, unique welcome moments, live acoustic music during dinner, interactive food stations, or a surprise performance that no one saw coming. “We would also recommend prioritizing culinary moments,” explains Alison Rose Chang. “With an intimate group, you can splurge on elevated food and beverage experiences. Family-style dinners, curated wine pairings, or late-night espresso martinis create a feeling of indulgence and connection.”
Sladkaya Vata Agency / Radaev Photo, Kateřina Houbová
Personalize Every Detail
The smaller the wedding, the more intentional the design and style details can be. “Think custom signage that doubles as art, escort cards that feel like keepsakes, tailored or embroidered linens, or beautifully designed dinner menus,” says Alison Rose Events.
Studio White agrees: “With a smaller celebration, the focus can shift to exquisite touches—handcrafted stationery, couture-level florals, and bespoke favors. Each element should feel intentional, artful, and unforgettable.”
Extend the Celebration
Stretch the joy out! Weekend-long celebrations are having a moment, and a micro-wedding is tailor-made for it. Kick things off with welcome cocktails on Friday, follow with vows and dinner on Saturday, then wrap it up with a slow Sunday brunch (or something a little more unexpected such as a boat ride or wine tasting tour). The slower pace allows space to truly connect with your guests, making the entire weekend feel like a meaningful escape rather than a tightly packed timeline.
Clara Brunet, Studio White
Photography: Nous Nous, Sam Lort
Invest in Storytelling
When the guest list is smaller, the quiet, unscripted moments become even more powerful. That’s why it’s worth investing in a photographer, videographer or a content creator who can capture the atmosphere of your day. “I always recommend couples invest in storytelling,” shaes Alison Rose Chang. “With a smaller group, the candid in-between moments, laughter around the table, toasts from lifelong friends, become the heart of your wedding story.”
Photography: Pavel Golubnichy, Charles Cave
