WEDDING PLANNING // NEW MEXICO WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER // COLORADO WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

If you’re here, chances are you’re dreaming of a wedding day that feels like you. Perhaps the idea of a huge guest list and traditional ballroom reception doesn’t quite excite you. Maybe you’re envisioning something smaller, more intentional, and full of presence, connection, and personality. Welcome — you’re in the right place!Let’s talk about intimate weddings — what they are, how they differ from traditional weddings and elopements, and how to know if this route might be your perfect fit.

Let’s talk about intimate weddings — what they are, how they differ from traditional weddings and elopements, and how to know if this route might be your perfect fit.

Intimate Wedding vs. Traditional Wedding vs. Elopement

Type	Guest Count	Vibe	Focus	Typical Location
Traditional Wedding	75+	Big celebration	Hosting & tradition	Ballrooms, event venues
Intimate Wedding	15-50	Personal & emotional	Connection & experience	Private venues, Airbnbs, and nature
Elopement	0-10	Private & adventurous	You two	Almost anywhere you want
Micro Wedding	Under 20	Hybrid of elopement & wedding	Close guests + simple setup	Often a destination or a unique location
Minimony	Under 10	Ceremony-focused	Legal or symbolic vows	Often followed by a larger event later

Want a deeper dive into all the options? Check out The Difference Between Elopements, Micro Weddings, Minimonies, and Traditional Weddings: Which Is Right for You?

Why Couples Choose Intimate Weddings

The shift toward smaller weddings isn’t just a trend — it’s a values-based movement. Here’s why more couples are opting for intimate weddings:

🎯 Intentionality: With fewer people, you can make every moment, detail, and interaction more meaningful.
💸 Budget Freedom: You’re not feeding 200 people, so your dollars can go toward what matters most — like that dream photographer or an unforgettable private chef dinner.
🌎 Location Flexibility: Fewer guests mean you can get creative with where you say your vows — a favorite hike, a remote beach, or even a cozy cabin.
💬 Connection Over Performance: Instead of a day that feels like a show, you get a deeply personal celebration where you can actually talk to everyone there.
🕊️ Less Stress: Fewer logistics. More breathing room. Deeper presence.

Who Is an Intimate Wedding Right For?

If you’re nodding along to any of these, an intimate wedding might be for you:

• You value quality time with your guests.
  
• You want your day to feel genuine, relaxed, and meaningful.
  
• You’re craving a unique experience rather than a cookie-cutter event.
  
• You’d rather spend on experiences, food, travel, or photography than on extravagant decor or a massive venue.
  
• You’re planning a destination celebration or Airbnb wedding.
  
• You want to blend adventure with intention — maybe hiking to your ceremony spot or renting out a property for your closest people.
  

Still weighing your options? Here’s a guide to How to Plan the Ultimate Micro Wedding, including unique location ideas, guest list advice, and a planning timeline.

Common Misconceptions About Intimate Weddings

Let’s clear up a few myths you might have heard:

• “Intimate means informal or less special.” Nope. In fact, intimate weddings often feel more special because they’re personalized, heartfelt, and focused.
  
• “They’re just a way to save money.” Not necessarily. Many couples reinvest their budget into experiences — such as travel, food, fashion, or photography — that hold more meaning for them.
  
• “You have to skip all the ‘wedding stuff.’ Absolutely not. You can still do a first look, dance, cake cutting, speeches, outfit changes, and a full timeline. The beauty of an intimate wedding is that you get to decide.

Popular Venues for Intimate Weddings

You aren’t limited to traditional wedding venues. In fact, most intimate weddings take place at private estates, cozy Airbnbs, cabins, or natural settings. You’ll often find couples renting an entire property for a weekend to host a multi-day celebration.

• Looking for dreamy spots in the Northeast? Here’s a list of Dreamy Northeastern US Airbnbs for Your Elopement or Micro Wedding.
  
• More of a mountain or desert person? Don’t miss Planning an Airbnb Elopement + The Most Beautiful Western US Airbnbs.
  

These settings often give you more freedom to create an experience that feels like home, even if it’s miles away.

It’s All About Your Version of Meaningful

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to weddings. What matters most is that your day reflects you — your priorities, your people, and the love you’re celebrating.

If a quieter, deeper, and more personal wedding experience calls to you, then an intimate wedding is the perfect canvas for your story.

Ready to Start Planning?

Whether you’re still dreaming or already Pinterest-board-deep in ideas, I’m here to help you navigate this exciting journey. Let’s co-create a wedding experience that’s intimate, intentional, and incredibly you.