INTIMATE WEDDINGS Intimate weddings, otherwise known as micro-weddings, are a step between a traditional wedding and elopement and are ideal for couples who don’t want too much fuss. For a wedding to be classed as micro, it needs to have 50 people or less; they became popular during Covid when big days were capped at 30 loved ones and it’s a trend that’s stayed. The positive, is that you’ll have half as many favours to buy or place names to make, and you don't need to worry about renting out a massive venue. However, many micro-wedding-lovers see the opportunity to keep the budget but chop the guest list. So, spend the same amount as a regular wedding, host a lavish affair, and spoil those on your short guest list. ELOPEMENT Back in the day of shotgun weddings and scandalous pregnancies, wedding elopements were saved for couples on the brink of ’ruin’. Thanks to our social liberation (to an extent), couples who elope now are simply people who just want to do the legal bit and don’t care about the big fuss. They invariably take a couple of witnesses with them and leave it at that. Although, if you were considering dumping the whole wedding idea, you probably wouldn’t be reading this right now. But where in the UK do you run away to? Cornwall, Gretna Green, and the Lake District are all popular choices! thechaffins.co YOUR VENUE BOOKING TIMELINE 1 YEAR BEFORE •Set your budget – how much are you realistically willing to spend on your venue? •Attend wedding shows. It’s a great way to get to know venues in your area and get a feel for their potential. •Book your venue! •Confirm guests with your partner and send out save the dates. 9 MONTHS BEFORE •Decide on key décor pieces and start leaning on your mood board for inspiration. •Confirm with caterers your guest numbers and dietary requirements. •Book transport to the venue, if necessary. •Visit the venue again to view the rooms/ space you’ll be using. 3 MONTHS BEFORE •If your venue is doing the catering, now would be the time to do a menu taste test. •Create a seating plan for your loved ones – this one can be quite time consuming! •Ensure you have enough place names, table decor, and favours. You’ll also want to check you’ve included a guestbook table and a cake table. 1 MONTH BEFORE •Reconfirm with suppliers – this means cake delivery as well! •Finalise your wedding day timeline and seating plan. 16
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