The word “wedding” inevitably evokes images of lavish parties with hundreds of guests, but that is far from being the only way to go about it. While some brides are all about the glam and fuss of a big wedding celebration, others much rather have the more low-key, intimate civil ceremony. With so many alternatives for the perfect intimate wedding, TDT has selected 10 ideas that will make your small civil ceremony feel extra special!
COME UP WITH A SELECTIVE GUEST LIST.
One of the many perks of having a small civil wedding ceremony is being able to narrow down your guest list to include a selection of your nearest and dearest. An intimate guest list will also make it easier for you and your partner to be present in the moment with all of your favourite people, without the hassle of having to entertain a couple hundred guests you barely know.
HOST YOUR WEDDING AT HOME.
Imagine getting ready for your special day in the room you grew up in, or in the house you share with your partner - it really can’t get more intimate than that! Plus, a home wedding is also the ideal setting for a small and private ceremony with your loved ones; to be present in the moment and create new memories in a place already filled with so many of them!
CHOOSE A DESTINATION VENUE.
On the other hand, you can opt for the more adventurous route and have your civil ceremony abroad! Not only would it be a complete paradise location for you, it will also give you and your loved ones a much-deserved break and a bunch of new memories to share.
HAVE FUN WITH HOW YOU GET THERE.
Yet another benefit of having a small intimate wedding is being able to make the journey from the ceremony extra stylish! You can hire a vintage school bus or VW camper or even live out your fairytale dreams by travelling in a horse and carriage.
PLAY AROUND WITH THE SEATING ARRANGEMENTS.
Instead of going for a traditional round table, why not choose a U-shaped set or a long estate table? This will make everyone feel included in the wedding, while providing a comfortable family atmosphere that goes along perfectly with a more intimate celebration.
MAKE WEDDING FAVOURS MORE PERSONAL
No matter where you have your ceremony, a wedding favour for each of your guests is a lovely tradition and will add an extra special touch to your day. Knowing your guests intimately will help you pick out the perfect things to add to their personalised gifts.
PERSONALISE YOUR PLACE CARDS
Place cards are a perfect way to tie in your wedding theme - why not take a chance to get a little creative with them? You can handwrite them, add in a picture of your guest, or even a quote you think they might like.
HANDWRITE YOUR WEDDING INVITATIONS.
That brings us to handwritten invitations - a welcome romantic addition to your intimate ceremony. Writing the invites to your closest family and friends adds a personal touch to the details surrounding your day. You could also include a personal message in the invitation, like the reasons why you would love to have each person at your wedding. What’s more, with less guests you have less to write!
GO FOR A SMALLER CAKE
Not only will a smaller cake be just enough for your intimate guest list, but you can also change things up by adding a delicious dessert to accompany it. This will ensure a traditional look for the wedding pictures, while adding a little twist with the accompanying dessert.
INCORPORATE OLD FAMILY TREASURES.
Finally, what better way to make your small ceremony extra personal than by incorporating some family earlums? Whether you would like to use your grandparents’ beloved dinner set or wear a stunning piece from your mother’s jewellery collection, incorporating family treasures adds an extra touch to ensure your day is even more special.
