There’s Nothing Micro About a Microwedding
What exactly is a microwedding? According to Brides.com, “a microwedding is an intimate affair, typically with no more than 50 guests. They still feature time-honored traditions that make a wedding but on a much smaller scale.” I suppose this is true… sort of.
The “microweddings” I’ve had the honor of servicing are most certainly intimate affairs.
However, the elaborate floral design from the ceremony to the pod-style reception tablescapes, the picturesque rooftop venue with skyline views, the perfectly crafted signature cocktail and plated entree are not sacrificed for said “microwedding.”
Instead, I find that clients are more preoccupied with these details because this experience is more about the aesthetic or vibe than the formalities and traditions associated with a larger wedding. You’ll likely get the chance to speak to everyone at this type of wedding. You will have the time and space to take in the memorable atmosphere surrounding you such as those perfectly placed callas or your mom and dad’s cake knife that during a larger wedding you may not have a moment to yourself to even notice. Clients end up making many aspects of their day more macro than the implication of the misnomer “microwedding.”
Let it be known, in my opinion the more appropriate and fitting name for this style of wedding is an intimate wedding.
The term “microwedding” surfaced during the pandemic of 2020 we all find ourselves still dealing with today. But, intimate weddings have been an event style of choice for many couples for years. That said, while this is a truly unique time for the wedding industry, here at The Styled Stem we believe in full transparency and setting clear expectations for our clients. An intimate wedding with an elaborate design, does not equal a more affordable wedding. It absolutely can be an affordable option depending on a number of factors but when contacting vendors and pinning to your Pinterest Board please understand that there are costs associated with every detail in those pictures and every service a business offers.
Photo by: Steven CW Taylor Photography
Here are a few examples of wedding element pricing that does not change because of your guest count.
Ceremony Arch with Elaborate Floral Installation
Everything from the style of the arch —wooden, metal, rectangle, ring, gold, silver, copper— down to the flowers and foliage used to create that floral masterpiece are no cheaper when 50 guests are looking at it versus 200 guests. Not to mention the labor required to execute those beautiful designs.
Venue Fees
Although you may have a small guest list, a venue rental fee is a flat rate for the time you are utilizing their space. This fee is typically static as a venue is making a commitment to you for your selected date and they will not have the option of renting the space to a potential larger party once you’ve booked. Now more than ever, venues are trying their best to stay afloat like many other businesses affected by covid so these are typically non-negotiable.
Food & Beverage
While the overall budget for F & B can be lower when you account for a smaller guest list, the price per person for a cocktail hour and a three-course plated dinner at a venue that charges $180 per person will still be $180 per person unless they have special pricing for off-peak days/dates. The same rules apply. If you want to save on F & B, exploring a wedding brunch or luncheon, a Friday night or Sunday, or an off-season date —in Philadelphia this would be late November-April for many venues & caterers for example—will be your best bet.
We know these are truly unique times and navigating all of the local guidance surrounding weddings and events is a job in and of itself. Having a wedding planner is a great way to solve the many challenges that come with planning a wedding in normal times let alone in the time of covid. Whether you’re planning an intimate wedding or hopeful for a larger celebration, we’re happy to help and will be the support you need during this time. Inquire today to confirm our availability for your 2021 or 2022 wedding date.