Planning Tools, Ideas, & Advice
.png)
For Wedding Pros
If you’ve been curious about the micro wedding niche, but struggled to find much information on this segment of the market, we’ve got you covered.
In recent years, the wedding industry has seen a significant shift towards more intimate celebrations known as micro weddings. These smaller, more personal gatherings, typically hosting no more than 50 guests, have become increasingly popular among couples seeking a more meaningful and intimate way to tie the knot. According to a survey by The Knot, over 16% of couples chose to have a wedding with 50 guests or less in 2023. The trend was accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced many couples to downsize their big day due to safety restrictions. However, even as the world returned to normal, the appeal of micro weddings remains strong.
With fewer attendees, couples can focus on quality over quantity, investing in meaningful details that reflect their unique love story. In fact, Zola reported that 73% of couples who had micro weddings spent more per guest than traditional weddings, allowing for a more luxurious experience. The smaller scale also allows for more flexibility in choosing locations, including private estates, boutique hotels, or even destination weddings, that would be impractical for a larger crowd.
With a more intimate guest list, couples can spend quality time with each attendee, making everyone feel truly special and appreciated. Micro weddings allow for more meaningful interactions and a relaxed atmosphere, leading to a more enjoyable and memorable experience for all involved. A study by WeddingWire found that 82% of couples who chose micro weddings felt that their guests had a better overall experience than larger weddings.
Micro weddings often come with a smaller environmental footprint, aligning with the values of eco-conscious couples. Less waste, reduced travel emissions, and the ability to source local and sustainable products are just a few of the eco-friendly benefits. According to a report by Green Bride Guide, weddings in the United States generate over one billion pounds of trash each year. By reducing the scale of their celebrations, couples can significantly cut down on waste.
A significant benefit of micro weddings is the potential for considerable cost savings. The average cost of a wedding in the United States was approximately $35,000 in 2023, according to The Knot. However, micro weddings can significantly reduce this expense. With fewer guests, couples save on catering, venue size, and other per-person costs such as invitations and favors. This allows couples to reallocate their budget towards elements that matter most to them, such as high-quality photography, unique entertainment, or an unforgettable honeymoon. Many couples find that by having a micro wedding, they can have the wedding of their dreams without going into debt, making this trend an attractive option for those mindful of their finances.
If you’re looking for ways to stay relevant with the newest generation of couples, aligning your brand with micro weddings could be a great option.
While small weddings have been around for quite some time, and as a wedding pro, the idea of micro weddings might feel like old hat, the truth is, since the pandemic micro weddings have continued to gain in popularity. Most importantly, the term ‘micro wedding’ is becoming more commonplace as the term circulates on the internet and as more and more couples are exposed to this idea on social media or attend one in their network.
Over 46,000 micro wedding related searches occur every month in the US with the top searches being related to micro wedding venue searches and ideas for the ceremony and reception.
Across the US. 16% of weddings in 2023 had 50 guests or less, with some states seeing more than a third of their weddings happening in this format. (Source: Wedding Report)
There’s a perception that micro weddings are for the budget couple, but the fact is, micro wedding couples are still spending. In fact, the data suggests that they’re spending more per head – between $50-100/head more than their larger wedding counterparts. Average amount spent on a wedding with less than 25 guests is $12,250, and between 26-50 guests is $15,000. (Source: Wedding Report)
Having a smaller wedding is not without challenges. We most often see requests for information and help with the following topics in our community:
If you've been considering leveraging this untapped segment of the market, here are some reasons why this could be a great way to stand out in a crowded market, stay relevant, and book more clients.
Micro weddings are more than just a trend; they reflect changing values and priorities among modern couples. By focusing on intimacy, personalization, and sustainability, micro weddings offer a refreshing alternative to traditional large-scale celebrations, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Whether driven by necessity or choice, the rise of micro weddings is a testament to the evolving nature of love and marriage in today's world.