Planning your wedding and feeling torn between a big celebration and something more intimate? You’re not alone—and the good news is, you have beautiful, meaningful options. As a wedding photographer, I’ve been lucky enough to capture both micro weddings and elopements, and each one is unique, emotional, and unforgettable in its own way.

But how do you know which one is right for you?

Let’s break it down.

💍 What’s an Elopement?

Traditionally, eloping meant running off in secret. Today? It means creating a wedding day that’s just for you: intimate, intentional, and often adventurous.

Elopements typically include:

• Just the couple (maybe a witness or two)

• A focus on connection and simplicity

• No formal reception or guest list

• A “just us” experience (but sometimes shared virtually or celebrated later)

You might exchange vows on a mountaintop at sunrise, in your backyard, or at city hall, no frills, no pressure, just love.

Best for couples who:
Want to skip tradition, avoid stress, and craft a deeply personal day on their own terms.

🎉 What’s a Micro Wedding?

A micro wedding is a small-scale version of a traditional wedding: intimate, meaningful, and highly customizable. Think of it as the perfect middle ground.

Micro weddings usually include:

• Around 10–30 guests (close family and friends)

• A venue, ceremony, and small reception

• Simplified planning and lower costs

• Space for personal touches without the overwhelm

You still get the speeches, the cake, the dancing but in a way that feels cozy and relaxed, not crowded or chaotic.

Best for couples who:
Want to celebrate with their favorite people but keep things simple, intentional, and budget-friendly.

📸 As a Photographer, Here’s What I Love About Each

Elopements:

• The raw emotion and focus on the couple

• The flexibility to chase light, explore nature, or break the timeline rules

• The intimacy of documenting moments without an audience

Micro Weddings:

• Capturing shared joy with family and friends

• Photographing small details that matter; handwritten vows, heirloom table settings, custom playlists

• The balance of tradition and personality

Both give us space to get creative, be present, and tell your story exactly how it unfolds.

🧡 So… Micro Wedding or Elopement?

The real question is: How do you want to feel on your wedding day?

• If you crave quiet, intimacy, and spontaneity → Elopement.

• If you want a joyful gathering with your inner circle → Micro wedding.

There’s no wrong answer just what feels right for you.

Let’s Make It Yours

Whether you’re eloping at a windswept cliffside or hosting a candlelit dinner with your closest people, I’m here to photograph it with honesty, warmth, and heart.

Thinking about your own elopement or micro wedding? Let’s talk about how we can make it uniquely you and capture every second of it.