Lately, over the last few seasons, we’ve noticed an influx in Taranaki Wedding Vendors collaborating to offer “Micro Weddings” and “Elopement Packages” – offering couples the basics, with or without a few trimmings, to keep their Weddings under a certain price point.
These offerings vary from a very basic 10 minute pre-written ceremony and a 1 hour shoot with a photographer to luxe “Micro Weddings” that include mini cakes, hair and make-up, boutique accommodation, platters and flowers for the happy couple!
But why are these “Micro Weddings” suddenly such a popular offering?
They offer a personalized, intimate celebration – typically featuring less than 20 guests, they focus on the moment, the meaning and the connection. They continue to increase in popularity as couples realise that a smaller guest lists allows them to focus on quality time with each other and their loved ones.
Couples are shifting their focus towards value for money and sustainability – as the cost of “traditional” Weddings and all their trimmings continue to rise, as does global awareness of the environmental impact of mass produced wedding products like “Bride” cups and trinkets, wedding favours and single-use wedding décor. Modern couples are choosing micro weddings for the economic and ecological benefits. On average a micro wedding or elopement that requires significantly less resources and time CAN cost at least 50% less than a conventional wedding – making them incredibly appealing to modern couples.
Smaller weddings allow you to embrace the local landscape – lower guest numbers and less logistics allow for couples from Taranaki, and beyond, to take advantage of more spots in our stunning local landscape. Remote beaches, private gardens, art galleries, restaurants – all become more accessible when no time is required for set up, no furnishings or décor are required and there is less/no disruption to the space you’re intending to use. Taranaki has an abundance of stunning scenic spots that are rich in natural beauty and need no additions to be the perfect backdrop for a micro wedding or elopement.
Memorable, simplicity not stress- you’re not spending time scheduling and attending meetings with multiple venues, celebrants and photographers and you’re not chasing RSVP’s or agonizing over table plans. You’re not spending the weeks leading up to your wedding fielding requests from guests or questions from vendors and you’re not watching the clock on the day making sure everything is running on time, making sure every guests needs are met, or worrying about the sun or the rain. There’s simplicity in a micro wedding which means less overwhelm, less stress and much, much more joy – allowing you to really relax and enjoy the day.
Opting for a “micro” or “elopement” style wedding is about making a conscious choice to focus more on getting married and making memories than having a Pinterest worthy celebration. It’s about crafting a memorable day that means you say “I do” with those who mean the most to you, without the added stress of planning a huge celebration. It’s about appreciating the little things. “Micro Weddings” might seem like a current trend – but they’re so much more than that. They’re a shift towards more sustainable, authentic and intentional celebrations and we reckon they’re here to stay.
Photocred – Ilumography