Hey there, lovebirds! If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels more you and less like a high-stress production, you’re not alone. More and more couples are choosing elopements and micro weddings in 2025, and as a wedding photographer who has had the honor of capturing these intimate celebrations, I can confidently say: they are nothing short of magical.

So, What Is a Micro Wedding or Elopement?

Let’s clear this up:

• An elopement is a deeply personal, often just-the-two-of-you experience (though you can bring a couple of your favorite humans).

• A micro wedding is a small, intentional celebration usually with 20 guests or fewer; focused on what really matters: love, connection, and meaning.

No matter which route you take, you’re skipping the fluff and focusing on what feels right for you.

Why They’re So Popular in 2025

In 2025, couples are leaning into authenticity. You want:

• More freedom to choose a timeline that feels relaxed, not rushed.

• More adventure—think mountaintop vows, city-hall romance, or seaside sunrises.

• More intention—fewer guests, but deeper connections.

And here’s the best part: when you’re not planning a 200-person dinner, you can actually enjoy your day.

What You’ll Want to Know

As someone who photographs these beautiful moments for a living, I often get asked:

1. “How do we even plan an elopement or micro wedding?”

It’s easier than you think. Pick a location that speaks to you, check local marriage license requirements, and build your day around what you love. Want to hike before sunrise? Say your vows in a redwood forest? Have a private chef dinner afterward? It’s your day.

2. “Will it still feel like a wedding?”

Absolutely. I’ve seen couples write their own vows, bring family heirlooms, include spiritual or cultural traditions, and cry happy tears just like at traditional weddings. It’s just more intimate and often more emotional.

3. “What kind of photos do we really need?”

Whether you’re eloping in the mountains or celebrating with a dozen loved ones in your backyard, you still deserve a full visual story. From getting ready moments to the quiet just-after-vow glances, this is your legacy. Don’t skip the coverage you’ll want every second frozen in time.

My Advice as Your Photographer

• Prioritize your experience. The photos will reflect how you felt that day.

• Golden hour is your best friend. Whether it’s sunrise or sunset, plan around the light.

• Bring intentional details. A hand-written letter, a unique bouquet, or a special piece of jewelry adds depth to your story.

• Embrace spontaneity. Rain? Wind? Wildflowers? It’s all part of the magic.

Let’s Create Something Unforgettable

If you’re planning an elopement or micro wedding, I’d love to help bring your vision to life and capture every honest, beautiful, unfiltered moment along the way. Whether you’re saying “I do” under the stars or dancing barefoot on the beach, your story deserves to be told with care, creativity, and heart.