The 5 Main Differences Between Micro Weddings and Elopements
Justine and John eloped to New Zealand with their Photographer Bonnie Jenkins
Traditional weddings can be big, boisterous and fun. If you, however, think of the words intimate and laid back when you picture your wedding, they might not be for you. Elopements and micro weddings fit more into that category.
As a wedding business, we've seen a growth in elopements and micro weddings in Brisbane since the pandemic began. We've also seen couples confuse the two. That's why we'd love to help. Though similar, elopements and micro weddings are two very different ways of celebrating your union.
So, what are elopements, what are micro weddings, and how can you decide which is best for you? We think knowing the main differences is the first step. It puts you in a better place to decide which works best for your dream wedding day.
What Are Elopements?
Defining an elopement is necessary because it's slightly different from what it used to be. Elopement weddings in Brisbane have come a long way from when they were impulsive decisions by couples. Now, an elopement wedding takes some planning.
Nowadays, couples spend more time planning their elopement wedding. They could make it a trip that ends up in a honeymoon somewhere memorable. They could also apply for and get a marriage license prior. Some elopements could also feature a few select people invited by the couple.
However, with an elopement wedding, the day is about just the couple. Most feature just four people: The couple, their celebrant and their wedding photographer. Elopements are like an open adventure the couple plans and enjoy without family and friends’ interference.
What Are Micro Weddings?
Micro weddings are like the love child between elopements and traditional weddings. A simple way to think of a micro wedding is like a conventional wedding with fewer guests. A micro wedding in Brisbane typically has no more than 50 guests.
Couples planning a micro wedding include all of the elements in a traditional wedding. Examples are pre-wedding activities like the bridal shower, bachelor's party, etc. The main wedding also includes most wedding rituals observed in conventional weddings.
Jessica and John had an intimate Micro Wedding in Brisbane.
Looking at both definitions, you may wonder, isn't an elopement a micro wedding? While some people may agree, there are some key differences to consider. Here are five ways that elopements differ from micro weddings.
The Guest List
Elopements are between just you and your partner. As we mentioned earlier, your only guests could be your celebrant, a witness and a photographer or videographer. For some couples, the photographer also acts as a witness.
On the other hand, micro weddings can have up to 50 guests. While larger than elopements, this number often means that the guest list is exclusive to only close friends and family. It's like having a wedding with just your VIPs.
The Timeline
For elopements, the timeline is casual and loose. Most couples need around 3 hours for the whole celebration. The only times scheduled would mostly be for the celebrant and hair and makeup, if you are hiring those. Your ceremony then has a start time, and that's it.
Micro weddings in Brisbane, however, need a structured timeline. They are just like traditional weddings, after all. You'll have more vendors in attendance and more wedding rituals to follow. All of those need a time frame to make things go smoothly.
The Wedding Venue
Elopements can happen any and everywhere. It all depends on the couple. They might need a permit to choose a place like a public park, but that's about it. It is not compulsory to set up an altar and chairs, so there is more freedom to choose.
Couples planning a micro wedding in Brisbane will need to choose a location. Guests have to be catered to, and you want to make your celebration memorable. While there is still freedom to go somewhere more intimate or smaller, you will have to make plans officially.
Wedding Planning
Planning for an elopement generally involves filing for your marriage license and hiring your vendors. These could include a celebrant, hair and makeup artist, florist and photographer. You could also choose a location and get a permit if necessary.
Sometimes couples also add a reservation for dinner to celebrate after the ceremony. Or you could choose to do a small reception with loved ones. Other than those, there is very little planning involved with an elopement in Brisbane.
Micro weddings involve all of the planning involved in a typical wedding. You need to create a guest list, a plan for seating, entertainment, vendors, and handle other wedding elements. Some couples work with a wedding planner to make things easier.
Your Budget
Couples with even the smallest budgets can have an elopement wedding in Brisbane. The costs to consider are majorly those of the wedding celebrant and the photographer. You may also have to pay for a location permit, depending on where you choose.
Micro weddings will cost a bit more. This is because you have guests, so you'll have to include catering, entertainment and décor.
Jennifer Gifford Designs’ "Off the Rack" wedding dresses are perfect for micro weddings and elopements! Couples planning these celebrations usually do so with little time to spare. Unfortunately, the majority of wedding gowns available in Brisbane can sometimes take up to six months to arrive. Plus, you'll still need to factor in time for alterations after that!
There's no need to wait when brides fall in love with my "Off the Rack" and "Ready to Wear" bridal gowns. You can schedule an appointment with your alterations provider right away, which is very helpful for brides who have a short time frame. It's also an excellent option for brides who have a more extended engagement but don't want to wait. My designs are updated regularly, and some styles sell out and are subsequently discontinued. With that in mind, many Brides don't want to risk waiting just in case another Bride snaps up the gown they have fallen in love with. When in doubt if an "Off the Rack" gown is the right choice for you, get in touch. I am ready to answer any questions you may have about what I offer and if it's a good fit for your wedding plans.