Getting engaged is, without a doubt, extremely exciting. But along with the thrill, you will get a million questions that need an answer. Namely, the bridal planning process is not simple because you must make some really big decisions. And deciding whether you should have a big wedding vs a small wedding will be the first priority.
The scope of your union will influence many decisions you will make along the way. Therefore, it is essential to determine what you want for your special day from the very beginning. Some couples have envisioned their wedding even before the engagement. Nonetheless, others are not really sure what to choose. So, let’s see the pros and cons of big and small wedding celebrations in Cedar Rapids, IA.
Big Weddings
Experience the advantages of a large wedding as it unveils a world of possibilities, enabling you to celebrate your special day surrounded by a vast network of cherished friends and family. However, it’s crucial to thoughtfully contemplate the factors that may influence the overall essence of your union.
Pros of Big Weddings
Go Big with the Planning Process
Dreaming of a fairytale celebration? Opting for a large wedding provides the perfect opportunity to bring that vision to life. With ample space and flexibility, you won’t have to place any limitations on your ideas. Whether it’s a photo booth, a dedicated area for kids, or a game zone for your reception, you can easily incorporate these elements. By doing so, you’ll ensure that everyone, including non-dancers, can have a fantastic time and enjoy the festivities.
Access to Vendors
When it comes to weddings, numerous vendors have specific requirements that must be met in order to utilize their services. This often entails certain conditions or minimum expenditure thresholds. For example, if you’re planning a small wedding, certain venues or catering services may not be suitable as they may have a minimum spending requirement for Friday or Saturday events. However, when a large union is in question, more of them will likely be “open for business” as they know larger spending will occur.
You Do Not Have to Feel Bad About Your Guest List
Planning a small wedding can present some unique challenges. Striking the right balance becomes crucial as you navigate the delicate task of selecting a limited number of guests without inadvertently causing offense. Hours might be spent contemplating the best approach to inviting individuals without hurting anyone’s feelings. In contrast, large celebrations don’t typically face this predicament as there is more freedom to invite a wider range of people without much constraint.
Cons of Big Weddings
Large Unions are Pricey
Arranging an event for approximately 200 attendees can come with a hefty price tag. Larger venues tend to be more costly and demand additional decorations. Additionally, catering to the food and beverage needs of each guest adds to the expenses. Consequently, if you have a limited budget, you might feel apprehensive about the financial strain this could impose. The thought of potentially exceeding your budget may loom overhead.
Planning Can Get Stressful
Organizing a large wedding introduces additional stress factors. It can be a challenge to locate a suitable venue capable of accommodating over 200 guests, often necessitating exploration beyond your local area. Furthermore, considerations such as dietary restrictions, seating arrangements, and ensuring the entertainment of children, if they are invited, must be meticulously thought out. The complexities involved in managing these aspects can add to the overall planning stress.
Small Weddings
If you look into the comparison of a big vs. small wedding, you will see that small celebrations also have a lot of things to offer.
Pros of Small Weddings
Venue Flexibility
The beauty of a small wedding lies in its flexibility, especially when it comes to venue selection. With a limited guest list, you can step away from traditional banquet halls and explore a variety of unique, intimate venues. This could be a historic home, a charming vineyard, a picturesque beachfront locale, or even your own backyard. You have the flexibility to choose a location that truly resonates with you and your partner’s personal style and story.
Small weddings also allow for destination weddings, where you can get married in your dream location and treat your guests to a mini vacation. By choosing a unique venue, you can create a memorable backdrop for your wedding, infusing your special day with a charm that’s uniquely yours.
More Affordable
A notable benefit of intimate bridal celebrations is their cost-effectiveness, making them particularly well-suited for those with limited budgets. With a small-scale event, there is no need to break the bank, and you might even save some funds for a dreamy honeymoon.
Numerous Venue Options
Opting for a smaller guest count opens up a plethora of choices when it comes to selecting the perfect bridal venue. Without the need to accommodate a large crowd, you have the freedom to book a breathtaking intimate location that may have been otherwise unattainable. Additionally, you can explore a multitude of reception spaces until you find the one that aligns perfectly with your vision of a dream wedding.
Cons of Small Weddings
Creating a Guest List Can Get Tricky
Choosing to have a smaller wedding can sometimes necessitate uncomfortable conversations about why certain individuals were not included on the guest list. Additionally, there may be pressure from parents or other family members to invite specific relatives. However, it is crucial to remember that this is your own story and event, and ultimately, you should follow your heart and do what feels right to you!
Limited Access to Vendors
As your guest list decreases, it is common for the budget to follow suit. As previously mentioned, hosting a smaller event may not align with certain vendors’ minimum spending requirements. For instance, if a vendor has a catering minimum spend of $5,000, and you are planning for 50 guests, it may not be practical to allocate $100 per guest for food expenses within the context of your event.
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Making a decision about the type of wedding you desire can prove to be a challenging task. However, armed with the knowledge of the pros and cons associated with both small and large weddings, you are now better equipped to choose an option that aligns with your priorities.
For more wedding advice, check out our blog, and connect with us to bring your big (or small) day to life! Learn more about our photography, videography, coordination, photo booth rental, and DJ services in Cedar Rapids, IA, and surrounding areas.