Intimate Wedding vs. Elopement: Which One is Right for You?
Are you planning your wedding and torn between an intimate wedding and an elopement? You’re not alone—I get this question all the time! I was in your shoes back in 2003. Both options are amazing, but they offer completely different experiences. Let’s break it down so maybe this can help you decide what feels right for you. After all, it is your wedding day and no one else’s.
What is an Intimate Wedding?
Malibu CA - Airbnb Intimate Wedding
An intimate wedding is a smaller-scale celebration that can still include traditional wedding elements with a cozy, personal twist. Think fewer guests, stunning details, and a more relaxed atmosphere. You can still book a gorgeous venue, have beautiful floral arrangements, and follow traditions, but on a more personal and meaningful scale. Make your wedding unique to reflect your eclectic style, have fun, or embrace a more laid-back atmosphere! It doesn't have to follow traditional expectations for a conventional wedding day. You will have fewer guests and less stress!
If you love the idea of celebrating with close friends and family without the stress of a huge guest list, an intimate wedding might be exactly what you’re looking for.
PRO Tip: When planning your intimate wedding, figure out your vibe first. Do you like the desert, forest, ocean, etc.? This will determine what area your venue search will begin in. The search for venues can be overwhelming. Knowing the vibe and feeling you want will narrow it down for you. Also, determine how many guests you want to have an intimate experience with. Everything should fall into place. From there, I can guide you and assist you with my inclusive packages and vetted trusted vendor recommendations to help you with your dream experience on your wedding day.
San Diego CA - Intimate Wedding
Temecula CA - Intimate Wedding
What is an Elopement?
Once upon a time, eloping meant sneaking away to get married secretly—but not anymore! Today, elopements are all about intentionality, adventure, and crafting a day that reflects YOU.
Eloping allows you to ditch the traditional wedding stress and focus on what truly matters—your love story. Whether that means saying your vows on a cliffside at sunrise, in the middle of the desert, or under a waterfall, the possibilities are endless!
And let’s be honest—elopements aren’t "just running away." They still require planning, but what about the fun part? You can be WAY more creative with your timeline, location, and overall experience. Airbnb’s are popular for getting ready options and dinner with your loved ones. Some Airbnb’s allow celebrations and micro weddings for an additional fee.
Sequoia National Park - Elopement
Laguna Beach CA - Elopement
Joshua Tree CA - Elopement
Kings Canyon + Sequoia National Park - Elopement
Which One is Right for You?
Still deciding? Ask yourself:
*Do you want a small but traditional wedding with close family and friends? → → → Go for an intimate wedding
Consider: - Intimate weddings are from 20-50 guests.
*Do you want a unique, just-the-two-of-you experience? → → → An elopement might be perfect for you!
Consider: - Elopments also have guests of up to 15
Either way—you deserve a wedding day that feels authentic to YOU. And guess what? I'd love to help you capture every moment.
💌 Let's plan your dream wedding or elopement! Fill out the form below or schedule a call to chat.
Ready to start planning? Let's make some magic!
Or
Fill out the form below. I will be in touch within 24 hours.
#Intimate wedding vs. elopement #Small wedding vs. elopement #Wedding planning for small weddings