How to Plan a Micro Wedding on a Budget | The Ultimate Guide

If you’re dreaming of a beautiful wedding day without breaking the bank, you might want to consider a micro wedding. A micro wedding is a small-scale celebration with a limited number of guests, usually between 10 and 50. It’s a great way to save money, reduce stress, and focus on the quality of your wedding experience.

According to the latest annual National Wedding Survey by Hitched.co.uk, the average cost of a wedding in the UK has risen to £20,700. That’s why more and more couples are searching for the term “micro wedding” online, which has seen a 669% increase in global searches and an 11% increase in UK searches in the past year*.

Zoe Burke, leading wedding expert and editor of Hitched.co.uk, explains: “Our latest data shows that guest experience and cost are the two most important factors couples consider when wedding planning. One way of making sure your wedding is one your guests will remember having a gorgeous time because they got to spend so much of it celebrating with you, is by having a micro wedding.”

But how do you plan a micro wedding on a budget? Here are some tips to help you:

– Choose a venue that suits your style and guest list. You don’t have to settle for a registry office, although that’s a popular option for many couples. There are also hundreds of licenced wedding venues across the UK that cater to small weddings, from cosy cottages to chic hotels. You can also look for alternative venues, such as gardens, museums, or restaurants, that might offer lower rates or packages for micro weddings.
– Be selective with your guest list. A micro wedding is not a time to invite everyone you know. Think about who you really want to share your special day with, and who will appreciate the intimate atmosphere. You can also consider live-streaming your ceremony or sending video messages to those who can’t attend.
– Simplify your catering and entertainment. You don’t need a lavish menu or a band to have a great wedding. You can opt for a buffet, a picnic, or a cake-and-punch reception, depending on your venue and preferences. You can also create your own playlist, hire a DJ, or ask a friend to perform for your entertainment. The key is to choose what makes you and your guests happy, not what’s expected or traditional.
– Personalise your wedding details. A micro wedding gives you more freedom and flexibility to customise your wedding to reflect your personality and taste. You can DIY your invitations, decorations, favours, or even your dress, or shop around for local and independent vendors who can offer unique and affordable services. You can also incorporate meaningful elements, such as family heirlooms, photos, or stories, into your wedding to make it more memorable.

A micro wedding is not a compromise, but a choice. It’s a way to celebrate your love in a way that suits you, without spending a fortune or stressing over the details. By planning a micro wedding on a budget, you can have a wonderful wedding day that you and your guests will cherish for years to come.

Five Amazing Micro Wedding Venues You Need to See

Are you planning a micro wedding, but not sure where to host it? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We’ve scoured the UK for the most stunning, quirky, and affordable venues that are perfect for your small-scale celebration. Whether you want a rustic, bohemian, or elegant vibe, you’ll find something to suit your style and budget. Here are five must-see micro wedding venues that will make your big day unforgettable.

– Frieda and the Moon – Cornwall

If you’re looking for a whimsical and magical venue for your micro wedding, look no further than Frieda and the Moon. This enchanting place specialises in small weddings and elopements for up to 12 guests, who are adventurous and creative. You can have any kind of ceremony you want, from a handfasting in a candlelit forest to an alpaca ring bearer. The team at Frieda and the Moon will make your dreams come true, no matter how wild or weird they are.

– Hive Bar and Kitchen – Somerset

For a cosy and charming venue that can accommodate up to 50 guests, check out Hive Bar and Kitchen. This lovely restaurant offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, as well as a delicious and diverse menu. You can work with the owner and head chef, Andrew Dombrowski, to create a customised menu that reflects your taste and culture. Whether you want a traditional roast, a spicy curry, or a vegan feast, Hive Bar and Kitchen will deliver.

– The Hawk Conservancy Trust – Hampshire

If you’re a nature lover and a bird enthusiast, you’ll love The Hawk Conservancy Trust. This venue offers a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces for your micro wedding, as well as the opportunity to meet and interact with owls, eagles, and other birds of prey. You can have your ceremony and reception in the Griffon Rooms, which can host up to 50 guests, or choose from one of the many outdoor locations, such as the wildflower meadow, the woodland, or the hillside.

– Skipton Boat Trips – Yorkshire

For a unique and memorable venue that won’t break the bank, why not try Skipton Boat Trips? You can hire their beautiful wood-panelled canal boat, The Dalesman, for your wedding reception, and enjoy a scenic cruise along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. The boat can fit up to 46 guests, and you can stop at the stunning Farnhill Wood for photos. You can also bring your own catering and entertainment, or choose from their packages.

– Rayleigh Windmill – Essex

If you’re looking for a historic and elegant venue for your micro wedding, you can’t go wrong with Rayleigh Windmill. This grade II listed building is a stunning sight, and offers a romantic and intimate setting for your ceremony and reception. You can have up to 20 guests in this venue, and enjoy the charm and character of the windmill and its surroundings. You can also explore the museum and the gardens, and learn more about the history of the place.