So you just got engaged and are starting to plan your wedding. You know you want something more intimate, but you are not sure what that actually looks like.
Do you elope?
Do you have a small wedding?
Do you try to do both?
As an elopement and intimate wedding photographer, I’ve seen how incredible both options can be. The best choice really comes down to how you want your day to feel.
Here’s a breakdown to help you figure out what fits you best.
What Is the Difference Between an Elopement and a Small Wedding?
An elopement is typically focused on just the two of you, or a very small group, with the day centered around your experience together.
A small wedding (or micro wedding) includes a limited number of guests, usually close friends and family, while still keeping things intentional and intimate.
Both are nontraditional. Both can be incredible. They just create slightly different experiences.
Pros of Having an Elopement
One of the biggest advantages of eloping is freedom.
You can get married almost anywhere. A mountain overlook, a desert trail, a quiet forest, or even somewhere halfway across the world. You are not limited by guest count, seating, or logistics in the same way.
Elopements also create space.
Instead of rushing through a packed timeline, you can slow down. You can take the day in. You can actually experience what is happening instead of feeling pulled in a hundred directions.
There is also a level of intimacy that is hard to replicate. It is just the two of you, fully present, without distractions.
Elopements also tend to feel less stressful. There are fewer moving parts, fewer expectations, and less coordination overall.
Another big benefit is flexibility with your budget. You can keep things simple, or you can invest in what matters most to you. That might be travel, photography, or creating a full-day experience together.
At the end of the day, eloping gives you the freedom to build a day that feels like you.
Pros of Having a Small Wedding
Small weddings offer a different kind of experience.
You still get an intimate and intentional day, but you also get to share it with the people who matter most to you.
For many couples, this is the biggest draw. You can celebrate with your closest friends and family while still keeping things relaxed and personal.
Small weddings also open up a lot of venue options. Many venues offer micro wedding packages or smaller spaces that work beautifully for intimate gatherings.
Another benefit is balance.
You get time with your people, but you are not overwhelmed by a huge guest list. You can actually have meaningful interactions without feeling rushed.
Small weddings also make it easier to create a full experience. Think shared meals, a weekend together, or time spent just hanging out with your favorite people.
Why Not Do Both? (My Favorite Option)
If you’re stuck between the two, you don’t actually have to choose.
More and more couples are blending both experiences, and it honestly gives you the best of both worlds.
You can have a private elopement that is just for the two of you. Something quiet, intentional, and focused entirely on your relationship.
Then you can celebrate with your friends and family in a way that still feels relaxed and fun.
There are a few ways to do this:
- Plan a day for just the two fo you, celebrate with family and friends the next day
- Split your day into two parts (private vows + reception later)
- Travel somewhere to elope, then celebrate at home
This approach lets you keep the intimacy of an elopement while still including the people you love.
How to Choose What’s Right for You
If you’re trying to decide between an elopement vs small wedding, ask yourself:
- Do you want your day to feel private or shared?
- Do you want adventure, connection, or a mix of both?
- How important is it to have family present during your ceremony?
- Do you want a full-day experience or more of a traditional structure?
There is no right answer. There is just what feels right for you.
Final Thoughts on an Elopement vs Small Wedding
The choice between an elopement and a small wedding really comes down to how you want your day to feel.
You can keep it simple.
You can make it an adventure.
You can celebrate with your people.
Or you can do all of it.
Your wedding does not have to fit into a single box.
And, if you still need the perfect photographer to capture your wedding day, whether you opt for an elopement alone or a party with your friends and family, I’d love to chat. You can learn more about my wedding and elopement photography here or you can get in touch with me to talk about your vision for your special day!
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