SMALL BUT PERFECTLY FORMED Kim Stewart from Great Betley Farmhouse (http://greatbetleyfarmhouse.co.uk) says: An intimate wedding is the perfect time to concentrate on what matters to you as a couple. Family and friends are easier to interact with and you’re more likely to feel that you’ve been present for your day. But where to begin? •Venue. Perhaps your favourite venue has a smaller space for more intimate weddings? Or you could look at hiring a whole country house for a weekend, a beautiful library or a small art gallery. •Flowers and styling. With a smaller space to fill and fewer people to feed and water, you could use more of the budget on venue styling. Instead of opting entirely for cut flowers, invest in some pot plants too. Best of all, they can be used afterwards. •Photographer. No matter the size of your celebrations do invest in a good photographer to record your memories. •Cake. You won’t need a massive big-day bake so opt for a small but beautiful one if you still want cake-cutting ceremony. Alternatively, individal mini bakes could be a stunning option. •Entertainment. Garden games are a great way of entertaining guests – anyone for croquet? A sketch or caricature artist or live painter to capture impressions of your guests would make excellent keepsakes for them. FINE DINING Jacquie Keeley from Fab Food for You (https://fabfoodforyou.co.uk) says: Soirée is a word I adore and just what an intimate wedding of 30 or fewer lends itself to. You’ll have more time to give to your guests without rushed hugs and clipped conversations. Wedding costs mount at a furious rate so keeping numbers low means your budget can be utilised to create a day more exacting according to your dream. A bespoke menu is one choice you can spotlight. Discuss your food in detail with your caterer as you may be able to afford to splash out on premium produce with fewer mouths to feed. I personally really enjoy micro weddings as they feel more like a large family dinner party. THE ONES WHO MEAN THE MOST Celebrant Jen Woodley (https://jenwoodleycelebrant.co.uk) says: Having an intimate wedding is a choice couples make for various reasons, and it’s not just down to budget. Some may lack the time needed to plan a large-scale event, or smaller gatherings may simply be more their vibe. Whatever your reason, an intimate wedding certainly gives you the opportunity to feel connected and celebrate with your loved ones. So, here’s what you’ll need to consider: •Guest list. Who were the very first people you told about your engagement? Remember, this day is for you. •Venue. Smaller venues such as restaurants or a favourite pub are great, since they already come with plenty of seating and facilities. Or consider a museum or gallery space for something more creative. A local village hall could also offer a great blank canvas to put your own stamp on. Personalise the space with family photos or décor that reflects your taste and interests. •Ceremony. A celebrant-led wedding can create a truly bespoke ceremony with your unique love story at the heart of it in front of the people who matter most. They can also take place in unlicensed venues, giving you even more choice of location. •Food and drink. With a smaller headcount, you many want to splurge on the catering. A carefully chosen luxury menu makes for a memorable meal. Consider your seating arrangements with a smaller group. A banquet table or horseshoe setup keeps everybody together, rather than sat at several separate tables. www.divinephotographyeastbourne.com www.facebook.com/NickiKomorowskiPhotography 66
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