4 Great reasons to have a small wedding

Small wedding venue in Kāpiti - Ruth Pretty’s Springfield. Photo by Siaosi Photography

Small wedding venue in Kāpiti - Ruth Pretty’s Springfield. Photo by Siaosi Photography

2020 has been the most stop-start year, to say the least (and that would be the understatement of the century!). We’re truly feeling for everyone who’s been affected by the huge impact of COVID-19, the subsequent lockdowns and alert level changes. It certainly doesn’t make planning events easy. Wedding planning is already a massive task - and throwing into the mix an ever-changing world, it’s a wild ride for sure! Alert Level Two brings with it restrictions around numbers at gatherings, capping them at the magic number 100. 

So, we thought - what better time to look at the advantages of hosting a smaller wedding? A more intimate guest has a huge range of benefits, while also being safer in these uncertain times. Today, we’re breaking down our favourite things about small weddings. 


  1. BEAUTIFUL SETUPS

  2. SAVE COSTS

  3. MORE TIME TO TALK

  4. CUTE VENUES


THE BEAUTIFUL SET UPS

Inside Ruth Pretty’s Springfield - the dinning room. Photos by Jenny Siaosi

Inside Ruth Pretty’s Springfield - the dinning room. Photos by Jenny Siaosi

Inside Ruth Pretty’s Springfield - the dinning room

Inside Ruth Pretty’s Springfield - the dinning room

There are so many dreamy, intimate seating options for small wedding receptions - and we can’t get enough of them! With more space for styling, the possibilities are endless. We love the idea of a family-style meal with good company around one of these lovely table setups.

Furniture, napkins + glassware by Mustard Folk; vision + styling by George & Co Events; photo by The Wolfpack food by Artisan Kitchen; florals by Jillybud Florist; tableware by Speakeasy Events; venue SPF events.

Furniture, napkins + glassware by Mustard Folk; vision + styling by George & Co Events; photo by The Wolfpack food by Artisan Kitchen; florals by Jillybud Florist; tableware by Speakeasy Events; venue SPF events.


SAVE COSTS

The maths here is pretty straightforward - less guests = less food, less drink, and a smaller venue! You can prioritise what means the most to you, whether it’s serving up higher quality food, buying that dress, or having an endless open bar. Maybe it means having elaborate, gorgeous florals, or quirky additions to your wedding day like a caravan bar or a photo booth. A shorter guest list means you can rearrange funds and spend more on your top priorities. 

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MORE TIME TO TALK

It can be so tiresome to attempt to work your way through 150+ guests, having a chat and a catch up with each of them. You’ll already have a busy schedule with all the formalities of your wedding day! Less people means you have more time to connect with those you do have with you, and more time with each other as a couple. Invite those you’re closest to, and don’t feel bad if you ask your guests to not bring a plus-one. 

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CUTE VENUES

There are so many dreamy venues that are perfect for more intimate occasions! A smaller wedding group will give you plenty more options. Or, opt instead for a backyard wedding with your nearest and dearest. If you don’t quite have the right space indoors, consider a marquee.

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Romantic old apple orchard at Ruth Pretty’s wedding venue in Kāpiti. Photography by Jenny Siaosi

Romantic old apple orchard at Ruth Pretty’s wedding venue in Kāpiti. Photography by Jenny Siaosi

Romantic old apple orchard at Ruth Pretty’s wedding venue in Kāpiti. Photography by Jenny Siaosi

Romantic old apple orchard at Ruth Pretty’s wedding venue in Kāpiti. Photography by Jenny Siaosi


Brought to you by the wonderful Deanna Walker.

Jenny Siaosi