What’s the Difference Between a Micro Wedding and an Elopement?
- The SAEP Team
- Aug 21
- 3 min read
If you’ve been scrolling Pinterest or TikTok lately, you’ve probably noticed two buzzwords that are taking over the wedding world: elopements and micro weddings. Both are smaller-scale celebrations that ditch the overwhelming guest lists, but they’re not exactly the same thing.
At SAEP, we love when couples reimagine tradition and make their wedding day about them! Whether that means exchanging vows on a mountaintop with just your photographer, or hosting a 40-person dinner party wedding dripping in chandeliers and champagne. But if you’re wondering, what’s the difference between a micro wedding and an elopement? Let’s break it down.
What Is a Micro Wedding?
A micro wedding is essentially a traditional wedding, just on a smaller scale. Think 20 to 50 guests instead of 200. You’ll still have your ceremony, reception, dinner, and maybe even dancing, but the entire vibe feels more personal, intentional, and relaxed.
Because micro weddings focus on fewer guests, couples often invest more in details that truly matter to them:
Luxury venues that feel exclusive and intimate
Elevated food and beverage experiences (hello, multi-course tasting menus!)
Thoughtful design touches like custom tablescapes and cozy lounge areas
Time to connect with every single guest instead of a whirlwind of handshakes
Micro weddings are perfect for couples who love the structure of a traditional wedding but want it to feel elevated, stylish, and stress-free.
What Is an Elopement?
Elopements are so hot right now and for good reason. Gone are the days when elopements meant running off to Vegas in secret. Today, couples are embracing elopements as an intentional, stylish, and deeply meaningful way to get married.
At its core, an elopement is a wedding experience that focuses solely on the couple. Guest counts are typically under 10 (often just the couple, officiant, and photographer). Instead of a big event, elopements are all about adventure, intimacy, and flexibility.
Picture this:
Saying “I do” on a cliffside in Santorini or overlooking Central Park in New York City
Reading handwritten vows in a private garden or chic downtown loft
Planning a day that’s 100% about your love story, whether that’s hiking, traveling, or sharing a quiet dinner for two
Elopements give you permission to skip the stress, the seating charts, and the “shoulds” of wedding planning. It’s your love, your way.
Micro Wedding vs. Elopement: How to Decide
So which is right for you? Here’s a quick comparison:
Micro Wedding | Elopement | |
Guest Count | 20–50 guests | 0–10 guests |
Vibe | Intimate but still structured like a traditional wedding | Intimate, adventurous, and focused solely on the couple |
Investment | Focused on luxe details, food, and design | Focused on photography, travel, and the experience |
Location | Smaller venues, private estates, boutique hotels | Anywhere your heart desires, mountains, beaches, rooftops, etc. |
Why Choose It | You want to celebrate with loved ones, but keep it intimate | You want a day that’s all about you without outside pressure |
Why SAEP Loves Both
Here’s the truth: whether you choose a micro wedding or an elopement, you’re still breaking free from “big wedding” pressure and designing a day that reflects you. That’s what we’re here for.
At SAEP, we help couples craft experiences that are anything but ordinary. Whether that’s reimagining a luxury micro wedding dripping in intentional details or planning a once in a lifetime elopement adventure, we’ll make sure your day feels authentic, meaningful, and special.
Because you don’t have to settle for boring, cookie-cutter weddings. You get to create a wedding that feels like you.
Final Thoughts
If you’re debating between a micro wedding and an elopement, ask yourself: Do I want to share this experience with my closest people, or do I want it to be just us? There’s no wrong answer, only what feels true to your story.
And if you’re ready to start planning your micro wedding or elopement, SAEP is here to bring your vision to life with intention, poise, and style.
Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/natali__photographer/
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