“WE DO” “A celebrant-led ceremony with fewer than 30 guests enables unparalleled personalisation, intimacy and creativity,” say celebrants Deb and Jackie. “The smaller scale allows for deeply customised experiences that reflect your personalities and values. You could even seek to include many of your guests. How about involving them in readings, or asking them to contribute their thoughts on marriage or you two as a couple? What’s more, smaller ceremonies tend to have a more relaxed pace, allowing the celebrant to take the time needed to emphasise important moments and details. This can lead to a more enjoyable and less rushed experience for you and your assembled loved ones.” Polly says, “When planning an intimate wedding ceremony, celebrants can provide insight into how to structure it to make the most of the smaller head count. This might involve more opportunities for guest participation, meaningful rituals, or storytelling elements that might not be as feasible in larger gatherings.” The smaller group allows for a more profound connection between you and your guests, making the ceremony more emotionally significant.” – Celebrant Polly Miller STATIONERY With a guest list of 30 or fewer, you can stop thinking of mass produced invitations and opt for something bespoke, a work of art that loved ones will want to keep. “You can add rhinestones and feature folds into your stationery designs, and really personalise your message,” says Gaynor from Topikki Stationery. “This greatly adds to the cost on larger quantities but would be more economical on fewer.” She continues, “Alongside the usual menu choices, dietary requirements, and directions you could try personalising your message – something different and unexpected. Let loved ones know that it’s a small gathering, which will make them feel honoured to be invited. Adding a dress code, or asking guests to bring something specific that relates to either of you could add to intrigue. This could then be used in a fun icebreaker game, where other guests have to guess why they think it’s relevant. “Seating plans don’t necessarily need to be on a board. Why not create a hanging mobile style, or plants such as succulents with names on sticks? Alternatively, create a fan or pick a shot or number, so guests sit randomly. A note of caution though, this only works well if both sides already know each other, or it might lead to awkward silences!” “There’ll be fewer concerns about seating arrangements, catering, and overall event coordination, making the planning process smoother.” – Deb Stodgell and Jackie Aldrich, Just Ceremonies VENUE STYLING “Focusing your budget on a smaller guest count often allows you to delve into the details and provide really gorgeous and considered style touches for your guests,” says Holly Allman-Lopez from Ambience Venue Styling Bath. “From personalised stationery or more impactful favours (we love hand poured soy candles), to elevated touches such as designer taper candles and opulent flowers, smaller designs can be extremely atmospheric, enveloping your guests and immersing them in the look and feel of your big day.” Deb and Jackie say, “Selecting a cosy venue with a charming ambience will go a long way towards creating the vibe you’re after. Arrange seating in a way that encourages interaction and create focal points with personal touches like photos and love letters.” Polly tells us that intimate weddings are all about the personal touches you can bring to the party: “Think fairylights, handwritten vows, and cosy seating arrangements. You can even have a gourmet dinner or a picnicstyle feast – whatever makes your hearts flutter and your smile shine.” “Corralling guests for group photos becomes much easier, and you’ll find much more detail in the finished images with fewer of you.” – Samantha Smart,Wedding Regency Image courtesy of Ambience Venue Styling Bath Image courtesy of Celebrant Polly Miller © www.juniperphotography.co.uk Image courtesy of Topikki Stationery Image couresty of Queen & Whippet © www.weheartpictures.com Image courtesy of Just Ceremonie 56
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