Step by Step Wedding Planning for Small Intimate Weddings

Essential Checklist for Planning a Micro Wedding

Planning a micro wedding, while it may involve fewer guests, doesn’t mean it requires less attention to detail. In fact, the smaller scale often allows for more personalized touches and intricate planning. This Step by Step Wedding Planning Checklist provides a comprehensive guide to organizing a memorable micro wedding, ensuring that every aspect is covered from start to finish.

12 Months Before

• Set a Budget: Determine how much you want to spend, considering that fewer guests can mean a higher budget per guest for a more luxurious experience.

• Decide on the Guest List: Craft a list that includes only close family and friends, keeping it intimate.

• Choose a Venue: Select a venue that suits the size of your gathering. Consider private homes, art galleries, or small outdoor spaces.

• Book Your Main Vendors: Look for photographers, caterers, florists, and entertainment that align with your wedding vision.

• Send Save-the-Dates: Especially important for a destination micro wedding or if many guests will need to travel.

9 Months Before

• Hire a Wedding Planner: Consider a planner who specializes in micro weddings to help manage details and offer creative ideas.

• Order a Wedding Dress and Attire: Start the fittings and selection process for your wedding attire.

• Decide on a Menu and Cake: Work with caterers to develop a custom menu that reflects your tastes.

• Plan the Décor: Focus on detailed and personalized décor elements that make the venue feel uniquely yours.

6 Months Before

• Book Accommodations: Arrange travel and lodging for guests if necessary, especially if it’s a destination event.

• Send Official Invitations: Ensure they reflect the tone and theme of your wedding.

• Plan Additional Events: Organize any pre-wedding dinners, post-wedding brunches, or group activities for guests.

• Purchase Wedding Bands: Choose rings that complement your engagement ring and fit your style.

3 Months Before

• Finalize Vendors and Timelines: Confirm all details with your vendors, including timelines and specific requirements.

• Schedule Hair and Makeup Trials: Decide on your look and book your stylist and makeup artist.

• Review Guest Accommodations: Make sure all travel and stay arrangements are set for your guests.

• Plan the Ceremony: Write your vows and finalize the ceremony details with your officiant.

1 Month Before

• Confirm RSVPs: Check your guest list and confirm who will be attending.

• Create a Seating Plan: Arrange seating that encourages interaction and comfort for your small guest list.

• Final Fittings for Attire: Ensure your wedding dress and any attire for the bridal party fit perfectly.

• Prepare a Wedding Day Itinerary: Distribute the itinerary to your vendors, wedding party, and any family members involved in the wedding setup.

1 Week Before

• Pack for the Wedding: If you’re having a destination wedding, start packing early.

• Prepare Payments: Arrange payments or checks for your vendors for delivery on the wedding day.

• Delegate Wedding Day Tasks: Assign small tasks to friends or family members to help manage the day smoothly.

• Relax and Enjoy: Spend some time relaxing and pampering yourself before the big day.

Wedding Day

• Stay Calm and Enjoy: Remember, this day is about celebrating your love. Let the professionals handle the details while you focus on enjoying every moment.

This checklist for planning a micro wedding covers all the essentials to ensure that your celebration is both personal and unforgettable. By managing these details step-by-step, you can create a wedding that perfectly captures the essence of your relationship in a more intimate setting.