The Difference Between Elopements and Micro-Weddings (with Planning Tips)

Small weddings allow couples to stay present for the moments that truly matter.

When couples start exploring alternatives to traditional weddings, two terms tend to rise to the top: elopements and micro-weddings. Both are intimate, meaningful, and typically far less stressful than a large wedding— but they aren’t the same. Understanding the differences can help you choose the experience that feels most authentic to who you are as a couple.

Below, we break down elopements vs micro-weddings, what makes each unique, and how to plan the one that aligns with your vision. By the end, you’ll feel confident choosing the celebration that fits your relationship, your priorities, and your style.

What Is an Elopement?

Elopements have evolved far beyond the old idea of running away to get married in secret. Today, an elopement is an intentionally small, experience-driven wedding day— usually focused on the couple, the landscape, and meaningful moments over traditional structure.

While definitions vary, elopements typically include:

• 0–10 guests (often none at all)

• Flexible timelines centered around experiences rather than schedules

• Locations chosen for meaning or adventure — mountains, parks, forests, deserts, beaches

• A ceremony that can be spontaneous, personalized, or completely nontraditional

• A day built around the couple’s personality rather than expectations

Elopements are perfect for couples who want a quiet, cinematic, and deeply personal celebration. They’re also popular among adventurous couples drawn to national parks, scenic trails, or destinations with dramatic landscapes.

What Is a Micro-Wedding?

A micro-wedding is a small wedding with a simplified guest list and a more relaxed version of a traditional wedding structure. Think of it as the middle ground between a classic wedding and an elopement.

Micro-weddings typically include:

• 10–40 guests

• A more recognizable flow: ceremony, portraits, dinner, maybe a first dance or toasts

• A set venue or outdoor space with some level of planning or coordination

• More guest-focused elements (seating, simple décor, a meal, etc.)

Micro-weddings are ideal for couples who want something intimate but still want to include close family and friends. You still get the slow moments and meaningful connection— just with a touch more structure.

Whether surrounded by a few guests or just each other, moments like this define your day.

Key Differences Between Elopements and Micro-Weddings

When deciding between an elopement vs micro-wedding, a few core factors stand out.

1. Guest Count

• Elopement: 0–10

• Micro-wedding: 10–40

Guest count often ends up being the deciding factor. If the idea of a crowd feels overwhelming, elopements offer simplicity. If sharing the day with your people matters, micro-weddings provide balance.

2. Structure + Schedule

• Elopement: Free-flowing, experience-driven, less scripted

• Micro-wedding: More structured, with a timeline to support guests and events

Elopements create space for spontaneous adventures— hiking to a viewpoint, stopping for a quiet moment by a lake, or simply letting the day unfold. Micro-weddings require a bit more planning to keep guests comfortable and included.

3. Location + Logistics

• Elopement: Anywhere— trails, national parks, mountaintops, cabins, beaches

• Micro-wedding: Requires an accessible venue or outdoor space that can accommodate guests

If you’re dreaming of a remote or adventurous setting, an elopement gives you endless freedom. Micro-weddings may require locations with seating, facilities, or parking.

4. Experience + Feel

• Elopement: Quiet, intimate, cinematic, personal

• Micro-wedding: Intimate, warm, meaningful, but slightly more event-like

Both can be deeply emotional— it’s just a matter of choosing the environment that feels right for you and your partner!

Intimate weddings that feel big on emotion and experience.

Pros and Cons of Each

Elopement Pros

• Ultimate flexibility

• Less pressure, more presence

• Budget-friendly or budget-reallocating toward experiences

• Can take place anywhere

• Perfect for personal vows and cinematic photo/video storytelling

Elopement Cons

• Some loved ones may not be present

• Logistics can be trickier in remote locations

Micro-Wedding Pros

• Intimate celebration with your closest people

• More structure without the overwhelm of a large wedding

• Easier for guests to share in your moments

• Beautiful blend of wedding tradition and personal style

Micro-Wedding Cons

• Higher cost than an elopement

• Less flexible timeline

• Decor and hosting elements add more planning layers

Celebrate your love in a way that feels true to who you are.

How to Choose What’s Right for You

Choosing between a small wedding vs an elopement comes down to what matters most:

• Do you want your wedding day to feel like an adventure, or a gathering?

• Do you want space to roam, explore, and stay present— or to celebrate with your closest people?

• Does the idea of planning feel stressful, or do you like organizing meaningful details?

• When you imagine the day years from now, who do you picture standing beside you?

There’s no wrong answer— just the one that feels true to your relationship.

Planning Tips for Elopements and Micro-Weddings

Regardless of what you choose, these planning tips will help keep your day smooth, stress-free, and meaningful.

1. Build in Extra Time

Whether you’re hiking to a viewpoint or hosting a small dinner afterward, everything takes longer than expected. Add cushion time into travel, getting ready, and transitions.

2. Expect the Unexpected (Especially with Weather)

Weather is unpredictable in any season. Have backup layers, umbrellas, warm drinks, or alternate ceremony spots. Flexibility always leads to a better experience.

3. Prioritize What Matters Most

Start with the top three things you want your day to include— an overlook, a private vow exchange, a shared meal, a sunrise moment— and build the rest around that.

4. Hire a Photo + Video Team Experienced in Small Weddings

Elopements and micro-weddings are unique. You want a team who understands:

• outdoor logistics

• intentional timelines

• candid, emotional storytelling

• how to work seamlessly with small groups

A seasoned elopement photographer or photo + video team will guide you through locations, lighting, pacing, and how to shape a day that feels like you.

5. Choose a Location That Supports Your Vision

Whether it’s a secluded trail, a rented cabin, a small venue, or a scenic overlook, your setting shapes the entire experience. Think about accessibility, privacy, and the atmosphere you want to create.

Intimate weddings allow for quiet moment with just you two.

Final Thoughts

Elopements and micro-weddings both offer intimacy, meaning, and the freedom to create a wedding day that actually feels like you. Whether you’re dreaming of a quiet adventure with just the two of you or a small gathering surrounded by your favorite people, there’s a version of this day that fits your story perfectly.

Ready to Start Planning?

If you’re exploring an elopement or micro-wedding and want a team who brings cinematic, warm, and down-to-earth storytelling to your day, reach out to chat about photo + video coverage.

We’d love to help you dream, plan, and create an experience that feels true to you.