Wedding planning is one of the most exciting yet stressful experiences a couple can go through. One of the first decisions you have to make is the size of your wedding. Choosing between a big wedding vs a small wedding is a personal decision that depends on your preferences. Here are some things to keep in mind while making this decision
Big Wedding vs Small Wedding
Big Wedding Approach
A big wedding is a grand celebration, a party to remember – but it also requires a lot more work and planning. Here are some things to consider:
Guest List
You have the opportunity to invite as many people as you want, allowing you to share your joy with a large community. However, to avoid having an overwhelming number of guests, set parameters and stick to them. When creating invitations, clearly indicate the number of guests who are invited.
Venue
Look for a venue large enough to accommodate all your guests comfortably with plenty of space to enjoy a variety of entertainment options like live music, performances, and photo booths. A ballroom or event center will likely be the best fit. Be sure to reserve the venue early to avoid conflicts with other couples.
Food and Drink
Serve a meal that can be efficiently prepared and served to a large crowd. Consider a menu that offers variety, but can appeal to various tastes and dietary restrictions of your guests. Buffet-style, plated dinners, and open bars are popular options that allow guests to choose their preferred dishes and drinks.
Décor
Décor is used to create an ambiance that makes guests feel welcome. It also creates a festive atmosphere and can transform your venue into a fairytale-like experience. Work with a decorator who has experience with big weddings and who can provide you with options that will fit your budget.
Budget
A big wedding often comes with big expenses. Develop a realistic budget that accommodates the cost of the venue, catering, décor, entertainment, and any other necessary expenses. When saving money, prioritize the aspects that are most significant to you.
Small Wedding Approach
A small wedding is an intimate affair that usually includes only the closest family and friends. If you’re opting for a small wedding, here are some things you need to keep in mind:
Guest List
The guest list will be shorter, but it’s still challenging and stressful to decide on who is included. Start by making a list of the people who you want to be there without-a-doubt. It can be tempting to invite everyone, but remember, you want to keep it intimate and spend quality time with loved ones.
Venue
You can get more creative with your venue. A backyard, beach, park, or historic mansion can all make fantastic locations. Entertainment options are still available, but double check with the venue to see if there are any parameters. Do keep in mind that a small venue may require more planning and attention to details.
Food and Drink
You can get more creative with food and drink options, focusing more on the quality and intention. Some common options are a gourmet tasting menu or family-style meal. Signature cocktails and mocktails can be made to reflect your personal tastes.
Décor
With a small wedding, you can focus on more personalized and customized decor elements. You can create a unique ambiance through bespoke installations such as flower arrangements, place settings, and unique details that show off your personality.
Budget
Smaller weddings can be less expensive, giving you some more room to allocate your budget to personalized details that make the event distinct. However, keep in mind you still need to plan well and stick to the budget, as it is easy to be carried away with details that could be overpriced.
Remember that the size of your wedding doesn’t determine its success or impact. Whether you choose a big or small wedding, it’s the love, memories, and laughter shared on that day that truly matter. Most importantly, enjoy the planning process for this significant moment in your life. A wedding is a day to remember, a day filled with love and joy. All the best as you plan your special day!
Complete Weddings + Events Fort Lauderdale/South Florida
If you’re planning a wedding in Fort Lauderdale, FL, then you’ve landed at the right place! Now that you’ve said YES! to spending your life together, you have some exciting decisions ahead. At Complete Weddings + Events planning, wedding events are what we do best. Complete Weddings + Events, Fort Lauderdale’s leading provider of event and wedding photography, videography, lighting & DJ services)