A world without weddings is a sad world, indeed. We're all mourning with the star-crossed couples whose plans have been crushed and delayed. We miss declarations of love, dancing, best man speeches, and hotel stays. But amidst the colossal disappointments and itch for physical connection this strange season has inflicted, covid-19 has done us one actual favor: showcasing the power of the intimate. Small gatherings were underrated before; now, they're our only option. Here are four reasons that's a really great thing.

Klaire Dixius Photography
// Micro weddings can simplify your life.
It's simple math: less guests = less work. The smaller your wedding, the fewer people you have to send invitations to, place into a seating chart, and tirelessly greet, and the more you can actually enjoy your life before your big day.
One of our favorite recent developments is the rise of micro wedding bundles. Local planners are creating curated, all-inclusive packages for couples who want to elope or have an intimate (20 guests or less) wedding with none of the planning pain. "In this time, when everybody's so occupied with the health and well-being of their families, one less thing off your plate is goodness," explains Yosira Jamison of Events by Yosira. Her $6,500 investment includes a two-hour ceremony/reception at Lightbox Studio with officiant, photographer, music, florals, a signature cocktail, and cake.

Klaire Dixius Photography

Klaire Dixius Photography

Klaire Dixius Photography
// Micro weddings can open up new venues.
With so many couples postponing their weddings to 2021, there's going to be a lot more competition for venues. Besides choosing to get married on a weekday or holiday, one way to snag a great location is by paring down your guest list to the essentials, which opens up untraditional venues like restaurants and historic houses. In Annapolis, three of Jamison's favorite small-scale spots are Blackwall Hitch, Level, and The Franklin House. We're also excited about Wildberry Farm + Market, a new Crownsville venue offering elopement packages in either its flower field or wooded meadow. A $950 package includes florals, rentals, an officiant, and an hour on the farm for 10 people.
// Micro weddings can make your day more meaningful.
If wedding planning is a marathon, the day itself is a sprint. It's hard to find a minute to think -- especially when there are 200+ people waiting to congratulate you. A smaller wedding means more quality time with your love and your guests. "Typically, in a large- or medium-sized wedding, you spend about an hour just going through the different tables, greeting people," Jamison says. "Scaling back allows you more time to engage with people and makes it a more meaningful event."
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Klaire Dixius Photography
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Klaire Dixius Photography
// Micro weddings can save money.
Economies of scale don't really apply to weddings. The more guests you have, the more the same wedding will cost. So if you want to do something really extravagant, think small. You'll have more freedom in your budget to splurge on 10 people than you would on 100. Or take the difference and save it. Your married self will thank you.

Klaire Dixius Photography
// Credits
Cake: Wilson's Cakes // Decor Rentals: Something Vintage // Floral Design: BCG Events // Furniture Rentals: Nostalgia Events // Photography: Klaire Dixius Photography // Wedding Coordinator: Events by Yosira
So if you want to do something really extravagant, think small. You'll have more freedom in your budget to splurge on 10 people than you would on 100. Or take the difference and save it for some special things & only for yourself: buy some cool stuff you always wanted like jewelry from https://moonmagic.com/ or go for a trip with your loved one... Your married self will thank you.