Tips for Couples Planning A Small and Intimate Wedding near Raleigh, NC
We’re excited to announce our new Micro-Wedding Package at Copper Ridge! As more couples are opting for smaller, more intimate celebrations, we thought this was the perfect time to share tips for planning a smaller wedding that is elegant and unforgettable. Think elopement but with AMAZING photos, your closest people, and a stunning venue to tie it all together.
Whether you’re newly engaged or dreaming of a more personal wedding experience- micro weddings are perfect for couples who want elegance without the overwhelm and stress. At Copper Ridge, our inclusive packages and scenic Southern waterfront views make small weddings feel like a big deal.
1. Why Micro-Weddings Are a Perfect Fit
Micro-weddings (20-50 guests) are gaining popularity for all the right reasons. Here’s why they might be perfect for your wedding day:
- More Quality Time with Guests
- With a smaller guest list, you can truly connect with every person at your celebration.
- A Stress-Free, Meaningful Celebration
- Smaller weddings naturally feel less overwhelming. Less people, less chaos—more focus on you and your love story.
- Room for Affordability
- With fewer guests, your budget can go further without breaking the bank. A micro wedding allows you to prioritize what matters most.
2. Choose the Perfect Intimate Venue
The venue sets the stage for your wedding day, and with a smaller guest list, you have the flexibility to choose a space that truly reflects your vision and feels personal. Here are some tips to guide you:
- Look for a Space That Feels Cozy, Not Empty
- Look for venues with intimate spaces that feel full and inviting with 20-50 guests.
- Consider venues with versatile indoor and outdoor options so you can create a warm, connected atmosphere.
- Prioritize Scenic Backdrops
- Smaller weddings allow you to focus on locations that provide stunning natural settings for photos and ceremonies.
- Think About Guest Experience
- With a smaller group, you can focus on making your guests feel extra special. Choose a venue with great flow, comfortable seating, and charming details that elevate the experience.
- Ask About Micro-Wedding Packages
- Venues that offer packages specifically for small weddings can make planning simple and stress-free. These often include essentials like seating, decor options, and vendor recommendations.
3. Curate Your Guest List
Your guest list is one of the most impactful decisions for a micro wedding. With a focus on quality over quantity, you can truly celebrate with the people who matter most.
- Start with Your Inner Circle
- Include immediate family and closest friends who have supported you through your journey as a couple.
- Ask yourselves: “Would our day feel incomplete without this person?”
- Consider a Plus-One Policy
- Keep things personal by offering plus-ones only to long-term partners or significant others.
- Frame It Positively
- If limiting your list feels challenging, remind yourself that a smaller wedding allows for deeper connections and a more intimate experience.
- If limiting your list feels challenging, remind yourself that a smaller wedding allows for deeper connections and a more intimate experience.
4. Add Meaningful Details
With a micro wedding, every detail can reflect your personality and create lasting memories for you and your guests.
- Focus on Personalized Touches
- Handwritten notes for each guest, customized menus, or unique favors like local treats or handmade keepsakes.
- Create a memory table with photos or mementos that celebrate your journey as a couple.
- Think Cozy, Not Minimalist
- Design beautiful centerpieces with lush florals, candles, and layered textures. Small weddings allow for thoughtful extras and customizations.
- Include Guests in Special Ways
- With fewer attendees, involve loved ones in meaningful ways:
- Invite a few friends or family members to read a poem or perform a song, toast, or blessing.
- With fewer attendees, involve loved ones in meaningful ways:
5. Capture Stunning Memories
One of the best benefits of a micro wedding is the ability to slow down and create timeless memories without feeling rushed.
- Prioritize Quality Photos Over Quantity
- Spend extra time on couple portraits, family photos, and candid moments that tell the story of your day.
- Invest in Videography
- Smaller weddings often feel more emotional and personal—perfect for capturing heartfelt vows, speeches, and reactions on video to cherish for years to come.
Why Copper Ridge is Perfect for Your Micro-Wedding
- Inclusive Packages: We take the stress out of planning with our in house-caterers and experienced venue staff.
- Southern Charm: A blend of elegance and nature.
- Waterfront Setting: Outdoor views that make every moment stunning.
- Personalized Attention: Smaller weddings mean you get more focus on your dream day.
Ready to learn more about our new Micro-Wedding Package? Contact us today and let’s start planning your perfect day!
📸 Photographs in this post by: Jaclyn Krogh, Atlanta Dahlia Photo + Video & Allie Nichols