INTIMATE WEDDINGS 59 Sara Price Celebrant offers small intimate wedding ceremonies at venues across the West. She tells us, “The number one trend in the Hitched Wedding Trend Report for 2024 is celebrant weddings. They have seen a 49% increase in search volume for celebrants in the past year and this trend is continuing upwards. Couples want a personalised ceremony, led by someone they know and trust, and having a celebrant guarantees exactly that.” Sara adds, “Alongside this, I am seeing an increase in micro weddings and elopements. That’s not to say that large celebrations have gone anywhere, just that since covid restrictions forced couples to focus on what was important to them on their wedding day, people have realised that they can pare numbers back without making their day any less special. By inviting fewer guests, they can afford to splurge on other aspects of their day. For example, choosing unique venues, hiring a planner, having a multi-day event, hiring a private chef, and hiring a videographer as well as a photographer.” Sara tells us, “There are numerous other reasons for couples choosing a micro wedding or elopement. These include, but are certainly not limited to, things like booking a smaller destination wedding because they would rather spend their savings on a deposit on a property rather than a large wedding. Also, they want to avoid the stress of organising a big wedding, including dealing with family demands over the venue, who to invite and what to include. Sometimes, they want to create different, better memories as their legal marriage didn’t feel special.” www.sarapricecelebrant.co.uk Celebrant Sue Denham is the founder of Sue By Your Side. She advises couples thinking about having a small, intimate wedding that it’s not just a trend; it’s a ticket to a world of unique possibilities and many wonderful benefits. She says, “Everyone knows it’s a great way to save money and keep stress levels down, but did you know there’s a whole host of other reasons why a small, intimate wedding might be the perfect fit for you?” Sue continues, “Picture this: with a smaller guest list you will be surrounded by the people who truly know and love you. It’s a chance to create a wedding that’s personal, intimate, and unforgettable. You’ll have the opportunity to share special moments and meaningful conversations in a relaxed and cosy atmosphere. Guests will love the personal touches and the special moments shared during the celebration.” Smaller weddings provide more flexibility in terms of venue choices. They open up a whole new world of options, from quirky spots to outdoor locations that simply wouldn’t work for bigger weddings. Sue explains, “A celebrant can deliver your wedding ceremony in venues or outdoor locations that are not licensed. With fewer restrictions, you can get creative and make your chosen venue your own.” Sue adds, “A small wedding can save you money but what they can also afford is flexibility. You can choose where to spend and where to save. Going small means you can tailor every aspect of your wedding to suit your preferences. Whether you’re dreaming of a lavish brunch, a chic cocktail reception, or a laid-back picnic in the park, the choice is yours. And with fewer details to juggle, you can focus on the things that truly matter, ensuring your wedding reflects your unique personality and style.” But perhaps the best part? Planning a small wedding is way less stressful and much more manageable. Sue says, “There are fewer areas to coordinate, giving you more time and energy to enjoy the process rather than feeling overwhelmed by it. You don’t have to stick with the format of the typical wedding – you can pick and choose what you want! Break free from tradition and make your wedding memorable, creating a small, intimate celebration that is as unique as you are.” www.sue-byyourside.co.uk Saying I‘ do’ www.gettyimages.co.uk https://paulkeppel.co.uk www.freeformimages.co.uk
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