Can’t Decide Between Eloping or a Small Intimate Wedding? Let’s Talk It Out.

Dear Bride,

You’re in love, ready to get married, but every time someone asks, “Sooo... what kind of wedding are you having?” you just want to disappear into the couch cushions.

Been there!

Whether you’re dreaming of a quiet mountaintop elopement, a tiny backyard celebration, or somewhere in between, the good news is: you get to decide.

And there’s no “right” way, just your way.

Let’s break it down together and help you figure out what fits your story best.

What’s the difference, anyway?

Elopement:

Usually just the two of you (maybe with an officiant, a photographer, and your dog). No big guest list. No formal timeline. Just love, vows, and maybe a really great view.

Intimate Wedding:

A small celebration (think 10 – 30 guests) with your closest people. You still get the ceremony, a dinner or gathering, maybe some light dancing, but it’s cozy, meaningful, and much more relaxed than a traditional wedding.

Elopement + Intimate Wedding Combo:

Eloping first for the moment just between you two... then celebrating later with a tiny wedding, dinner party, or reception with family and friends.

Why you might love eloping:

• You crave quiet, meaningful moments with no pressure

• You’d rather spend money on an epic location or honeymoon

• The idea of reading vows with just the two of you sounds incredibly romantic

• You want zero drama, and zero “performance”

• You hate being the center of attention

Why a small, intimate wedding might be your thing:

• You want to include your closest people (parents, siblings, best friends)

• You love the idea of sharing the moment but still keeping it simple

• You’re sentimental, and can’t imagine getting married without a few hugs from your people

• You still want elements like a dinner, first look, or family toasts, just scaled down

Why not do both?

Who says you have to choose? You can elope first, maybe on your anniversary, or a meaningful day, and plan a sweet celebration later. Or invite a handful of guests to your elopement and turn it into a mini wedding experience with dinner, a walk, or cake under the stars.

One couple I know eloped at sunrise, took some time to relax with their dogs in a cute airbnb surrounded by nature, prepared an elaborate brunch together, then had their families meet them there for a dinner party that night.

Another pair did a private beach elopement and hosted a brunch picnic with family the next day. It was chill, beautiful, and 100% them.

So how do you choose?

Ask yourselves:

• What feels exciting and meaningful to us?

• Do we feel pressure to please others, or are we being honest about what we want?

• Do we want our wedding to feel peaceful? Playful? Private? Social?

• What do we want to remember most when we look back?

There’s no wrong answer here, just the one that makes your heart feel calm, happy, and you.

You don’t have to follow a script. You don’t have to explain your choice to anyone. You just have to choose what feels true.

Whether it’s the two of you under the stars or a candlelit dinner with your favorite 12 people, your love deserves a day that reflects it.