Weddings are usually formal, elegant affairs. However, if formal affairs are not your style, planning a more intimate ceremony might fit your personality. Planning a smaller, more laid-back wedding is all about simplicity, intimacy, and personal touches. We are sharing our 10 Tips for Planning a Smaller, Laidback Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide to help you create a relaxed yet memorable wedding that fits your style.
1. Define Your Vision
First on our list of 10 Tips for Planning a Smaller, Laidback Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide, is to define your vision. Decide what “laid-back” means to you. Is it a backyard BBQ, a beach elopement, or an intimate dinner party? Some things to consider are:
The vibe (casual, boho, rustic, garden party, etc.)
The guest count (usually 20-50 people for an intimate wedding)
The setting (backyard, park, small venue, restaurant, Airbnb, etc.)
2. Set a Budget
Just like a large wedding, next on our list of 10 Tips for Planning a Smaller, Laidback Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide is to set a budget. Smaller weddings can still be elegant but are usually more budget-friendly. Some things to prioritize include the following:
Venue (or lack thereof—backyard, park, or a small rented space)
Food & drinks (buffet, food trucks, or family-style dining)
Photography (still worth investing in even for a laid-back event)
3. Choose a More Casual Venue
When creating the perfect vibe for your smaller, laidback wedding, choose a relaxed venue. Think outside the traditional ballroom. Great options include:
Backyard or private home
Beach or park (check permit requirements)
Small boutique hotel or Airbnb
Brewery, winery, or cozy restaurant
4. Keep the Guest List Simple
Keep it intimate by inviting only close family and friends. This will help create a relaxed atmosphere where everyone can mingle comfortably.
5. Opt for Minimalist Decor
You can focus on simple but meaningful decor since the guest list and venue are smaller. Some decor options to consider are:
Candles and string lights for ambiance
Wildflowers or single-stem florals in small vases
Handwritten place cards for a personal touch
A mix of lounge seating and communal tables
6. Keep the Dress Code Casual
Since your goal is to have a laidback wedding, skip the formal wear if that’s not your style. Instead, go for:
A simple wedding dress or chic jumpsuit
A linen suit or smart casual attire for the groom
A casual yet cohesive dress code for guests
7. Serve Casual Food & Fun Drinks
Formal weddings usually offer plated dinner with multiple courses but since you a choosing a more laidback wedding, instead of a plated dinner, opt for:
A BBQ, taco bar, pizza station, or brunch menu
A food truck for a fun and relaxed meal
Signature cocktails or a self-serve drink station
8. Ditch Traditional Wedding Formalities
Keeping with the theme of a laidback style wedding, skip or modify wedding traditions to suit your vibe: These may include:
No bridal party (or a small, informal one)
A short and sweet ceremony
A relaxed timeline with more mingling and less structure
A playlist instead of a DJ (or a small acoustic band)
9. Capture the Moments
Creating memories is one thing to keep, even for a low-key wedding, photography is worth the investment. A documentary-style photographer will capture authentic moments without making them feel staged.
10. Focus on the Experience
Instead of a rigid timeline, prioritize guest experience with things like:
Lawn games, fire pits, or cozy seating
A DIY s’mores bar or dessert table
An intimate dance floor or open mic for heartfelt toasts
If you want to learn more about our 10 Tips for Planning a Smaller, Laidback Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide, contact us to speak to one of our wedding planners.
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