Why smaller weddings are more popular than ever
The trend for small, intimate weddings has grown over the last couple of years. Increasing numbers of happy couples are content to celebrate with a carefully curated bunch of their nearest and dearest, rather than everyone they know. But what is driving this popularity for smaller weddings? Here are three key reasons to consider scaling down your wedding celebrations.
1. The Covid-19 effect
Covid-19 was a nightmare for the wedding industry. Lockdowns and social distancing measures lead to the cancellation of a huge number of weddings between late March and early July 2020. For a short period afterwards, weddings could go ahead but with a maximum of 15 people.
Currently, there aren’t any restrictions limiting wedding ceremonies or the size of social gatherings, but some couples have been wary about booking a large wedding just in case the worst happens. We may have access to vaccines, but Covid-19 is still doing the rounds. For many, it simply feels safer to plan a small wedding that could continue with social distancing measures or that wouldn’t break the bank if it had to be cancelled.
2. Relaxed atmosphere
Weddings can be a big source of anxiety. 40% of couples describe wedding planning as ‘extremely stressful’ while 71% think it’s more nerve-wracking than finding a new job. Smaller weddings are easier to organise which can make the countdown to the big day far more peaceful. Plus, the atmosphere on the day tends to be much more relaxed for small weddings than for big ones.
Not everybody wants a formal affair, particularly if they’re not keen on being in the spotlight. Plus, small weddings give the happy couple more time to chat with all their guests without the pressure of rushing around and socialising with a huge group of people.
3. Affordability
Weddings aren’t known for being low-cost affairs, and a huge proportion of the expense goes into providing food and drink for a large number of guests. Plus, there’s the massive expense of hiring a venue big enough to hold a large group.
By reducing the guest list, you can hire a smaller space and cut down massively on catering costs. Some people are happy to splash out on an extravagant wedding given that it’s something they’ll only do once, but others feel reluctant to invest such a big chunk of cash into a day-long affair, particularly with the current cost of living crisis. They’d rather spend more on a luxurious honeymoon or put their savings towards a deposit on a house that will be a family home for years to come. A small wedding is a great way to mark the special occasion without breaking the bank.
Your wedding day should be about you and your partner and not about other people. If you want to cut down on the stress and expense of a massive bash, forget about what might be expected of you and plan the small, intimate and relaxing wedding of your dreams.
