The Future Of Weddings Is Intimate
It seems crazy that just over a year ago, life changed forever for us because of COVID-19. Now, with fresh eyes, we look at the world a little differently, and that’s absolutely the case when it comes to weddings.
When I talk to people planning their wedding, there’s a very different feeling than there was a year ago; their priority is focusing on the people who attend their wedding. I think this mind shift is very telling; intimate weddings are here to stay in 2021 and beyond.
Why People Are Choosing to Have Intimate Weddings
There are lots of reasons why people are choosing to have smaller weddings. It’s not just worrying about COVID (though that is a concern); priorities have shifted, and people feel released from the conventional wedding rules.
When I say priorities have shifted, I see couples really embrace a wedding that suits them and their relationship, and I am LOVING this! When you focus on what you want, then there’s just no stopping how personalized your wedding can be. And as a photographer, I have to tell you that it makes a difference in the photos because you will be more relaxed and joyful; it radiates from you!
Wedding etiquette is another thing people are moving away from. Throw away the rule that you have to invite cousins you haven’t seen in 20 years just because DNA binds you. Instead, people are inviting people closest to them, the people who support their relationship fully as well as beloved family members.
Stretch that Dollar!
Yes, it has to be said; smaller weddings can be much more cost-efficient. But honestly, what I hear from couples is that what they are loving is that their money goes further. Any good wedding planner will tell you to calculate what your wedding budget will need to be; you start with the guest list. When you’re able to pare down that list, it means that the budget you have expands exponentially.
What does that mean if you’re planning on getting married? All that stuff that you may have thought you couldn’t afford suddenly becomes affordable with a smaller guest list! It’s possible to add that engagement session you wanted, that beautiful wedding album, and maybe even an album for the parents and still stay within your budget. How AWESOME is that?
Choose Your Adventure
If you identify as someone who is more introverted, then this trend of smaller weddings, micro weddings, or elopements may be exactly what you are here for. You can tailor your wedding to your comfort level and surround yourself with exactly the people you care the most about on your wedding day.
Or keep it even smaller and elope with just the two of you. You can always have the reception/party part later, even if it’s just a backyard bash.
Weddings Can Happen Anywhere
Don’t really dig traditional wedding venues? The good news is that you can get married really anywhere that is legal to do so. People are getting so creative with where they are choosing to get married!
With a smaller guest list, you have so many more options for places to get married. Think outside of the box! With just a few guests, you might be able to find a location that doesn’t normally host weddings. Maybe you met at a coffee shop here in San Francisco and they have a lovely small courtyard you could use for 30 minutes. Think about how a special location could personalize your wedding photos!
Are you planning an intimate wedding? Whether you are just in the planning stages or you have it all worked out, I’d love to talk to you about your wedding photography goals. I love this trend, and I have lots of advice for you on micro weddings, elopements, and intimate weddings and how they impact your wedding photos. Get in touch, and let’s chat!
