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Everything You Need to Know About Micro-Weddings

Hey! I'm Iver Marjerison, founder and lead planner at Colorado MicroWeddings. Over the past seven years, I've planned hundreds of small weddings across the state — and I've heard every question you can imagine. Here are the answers to the most common ones.

Deciding to plan a small wedding can be confusing as first, but it’s really very simple! Unlike traditional weddings, a micro-wedding can be broken down into just two simple parts: the ceremony, and the reception. Most groups who are planning a small wedding, micro-wedding, or elopement, simply do the ceremony at a scenic outdoor locations (park, beach, mountaintop, etc.) and then head to a restaurant for dinner - it can really be as simple as that!

What is a Micro-Wedding?

There's no official definition for "micro-wedding," but generally we're talking about a small wedding with 40 or fewer guests and less traditional elements. Most micro-weddings have an outdoor ceremony at a casual location — a park, beach, or backyard — followed by dinner at a local restaurant instead of a formal reception. Some couples still do cake cuttings, speeches, and dancing, but the reception is usually more relaxed. That's the part that cuts complexity, saves money, and keeps things simple.

What is a Small-Wedding?

With groups of 40 - 60 guests, informal outdoor ceremony sites can get risky. Bad weather hits harder when you've got more people to move, more setup to manage, and more logistics to juggle. You may also find yourself wanting the traditional reception elements — cake cutting, speeches, dancing — which can feel awkward crammed into a restaurant. At that size, most couples are more comfortable at an actual wedding venue that can handle both ceremony and reception. You can still keep things small and simple! But at that point, I'd call it a small wedding rather than a micro-wedding.

What is an Elopement?

Traditionally, "elopement" meant running off to get married in secret — but today it's simply a very small, simple wedding. Usually just the couple, or up to six guests. The ceremony happens somewhere non-traditional — a mountaintop, a beach, a forest — and then everyone heads to a local restaurant to celebrate. Simple, easy, and affordable.

Who Are Micro-Weddings For?

Small weddings can really be for anyone!

Since there are no rules on size or style, the wedding can be customized to fit any couple’s personalities and budget, from a mountaintop elopement to a casual wedding at the local art gallery. With that being said, couples that tend to be drawn to this idea are typically looking to avoid the stress and expenses associated with traditional ceremonies, opting instead to create an intimate experience with their close friends and family. And, of course, this contemporary style of celebration is also the perfect fit for a vow renewal ceremony!

Why Should I Have a Micro-Wedding?

Save time, same money, reduce stress, and make thing simple!

Microweddings offer a budget-friendly alternative to more traditional wedding options, while still offering a wedding day that is both beautiful, memorable, and awesome. Best of all, without the financial and logistical restrictions of a bloated guest list, many couples find that their wedding budget goes much further! And while it’s certainly the easiest way to have a “cheap” wedding, you don’t have to sacrifice quality or elegance. Another advantage of microweddings is flexibility. Whereas traditional venues often restrict vendor/food/alcohol choices, with a small wedding, the world is your oyster!

Want to have a food truck meet your party in the park?
…Why not!
How about the ceremony on a mountaintop and the reception at a brewery?
…That works!
Your friend as the officiant and a cactus bouquet?
…You’re in charge!

Why Should I NOT Have a Micro-Wedding?

In my experience there are three reasons that couples choose a more traditional wedding over a smaller event like a micro-wedding or elopement.

1. Family & Traditions - If you have family and traditions that dictate a specific sort of wedding day, and you decide these are things you want to incorporate, than a more traditional wedding may be the best fit for your day.

2. Group Size - If you are fortunate enough to have a massive family and core friend group, than a small wedding may simply not be feasible. Once you get above 60ish people, generally groups find that the logistics of an informal micro-wedding just don’t work well. For groups of 60 or more, I generally recommend finding a more traditional venue that can accommodate both the ceremony and reception.

3. PARTY - In my experience the numbers don’t like, if you have less than 30 people, it’s very rare to have a group that is popping bottles, blasting music, and dancing the night away. If you want your wedding to be a PARTY in the traditional sense, you may simply need more bodies to bring the energy! :)

Micro-Wedding Pros

• Significant cost savings — skip the expensive venue, DJ, and catering for 100+ guests

• More flexibility with locations — parks, mountains, restaurants, and backyards all work

• Less stress and planning — fewer vendors, fewer logistics, fewer moving pieces

• More quality time with guests — actually talk to everyone instead of doing the rounds

• Colorado's best spots become options — places like Sapphire Point and RMNP cap group size anyway

• Easier to book — shorter timelines and more availability than traditional venues

Micro-Wedding Cons

• Guest list cuts are hard — someone's feelings will get hurt

• Limited venue options for 30-40 guests — too big for parks, too small for most venues

• Weather risk with outdoor Colorado ceremonies — no backup plan at most casual locations

• Some traditional elements feel awkward — speeches and dancing at a restaurant can be tight

• Less "wedding day" fanfare — no grand entrance, no big dance floor, no full vendor team

• Family expectations — not everyone understands why you're skipping the big wedding

The Logistics

How much does a micro-wedding cost?
Some simple micro-weddings consist of family and friends getting together in a park to exchange vows — a friend takes photos, another friend officiates, and the only cost is the marriage license. Other micro-weddings rent a venue, hire a $5,000 photographer, take the group out to a fancy dinner, and fly off in a helicopter for the reception. Get my point? The range is basically zero to infinite. But generally speaking, a group of 30 people should be able to get everything they need — ceremony site, photographer, officiant, bouquet, bridal hair and makeup — for about $3,500 plus dinner.

Do I need a wedding planner for a micro-wedding?
Not really, but it helps. A planner who specializes in micro-weddings will already know the best spots, the right vendors, the permit process, and how to make the day flow smoothly. It takes a lot of the guesswork off your plate — especially if you're planning from out of state.

Do I still need a photographer for a micro-wedding?
Not technically required, but it's one of the most common things couples hire out. You'll want quality photos of the day, and it's hard for a guest to be fully present while also trying to capture the ceremony. Most couples find it's worth the investment.

How long does a micro-wedding take to plan?
I've helped couples plan micro-weddings in as little as a week. It really comes down to how fast your group can prepare for travel, how quickly you can lock in vendors, and how flexible you are with dates and locations. Most couples give themselves one to three months, but it can absolutely happen faster.

Do I need a permit for an outdoor micro-wedding in Colorado?
It depends on the location. Many public parks in Colorado are free and don't require permits for small groups. Others — like Rocky Mountain National Park and Sapphire Point — require a permit and a small fee. Private venues vary widely. Always check before you book.

The Ceremony

Can I still have a wedding party at a micro-wedding?
Absolutely! Many couples keep things simple for the ceremony, then head to a local brewery or restaurant to celebrate with a larger group afterward. Rental homes and Airbnbs can also work well for a more private gathering.

Do I need an officiant for a micro-wedding?
Legally, it depends on the state. In Colorado, couples can self-solemnize, meaning you don't need an officiant at all. Many couples have a friend or family member lead the ceremony for the personal touch, then handle the legal paperwork separately with a judge or licensed officiant if needed.

Can we write our own vows?
Of course! I always suggest writing your own vows for micro-weddings. With a smaller, more intimate group, personal vows feel more natural and meaningful. It's your day — say what you want to say.

The Reception

What do you do after a micro-wedding ceremony?
Most couples head to a local restaurant for dinner with the group. Others rent a private home or Airbnb and celebrate there. Some do a quick champagne toast at the ceremony site before heading out. Keep it simple or make it a full evening — totally up to you.

Do micro-weddings have receptions?
They can! It can be as simple as dinner at a restaurant or as elaborate as renting a private venue with a dance floor. Most micro-wedding receptions lean casual — think long table dinner with toasts rather than a DJ and bouquet toss.

Should I do a first dance at a micro-wedding?
If you won't have a reception venue with a dance floor, I suggest doing your first dance right after the ceremony. It makes for beautiful photos, the emotion is already high, and it's a nice moment before you transition to dinner.

Do I still need a wedding cake?
Up to you! Most micro-weddings do some version of dessert — a small cake, cupcakes, or something sweet to share. It doesn't need to be a tiered masterpiece. Some couples skip it entirely and just order dessert at the restaurant.

The Guest Experience

How do I tell family we're having a micro-wedding?
Let them know that this is what you want for your special day. It's up to you whether you want to share specific concerns about budget or logistics. This can be hard for families to hear — but it's important to remember that for a long time, weddings weren't really about the couple. They were about the family and the community. Many people, especially older generations, planned their weddings for someone else. Finding out that your wedding is going to be for you can be tough for them. Be patient, be clear, and give them time to adjust.

What if people are upset they're not invited?
It happens, unfortunately. Some couples soften the blow by hosting a larger, more casual celebration at a later date — like a "wedding party" at a brewery or a backyard barbecue a few weeks later. That way, people still feel included even if they weren't at the ceremony itself.

Do guests still give gifts at a micro-wedding?
It's not as structured as a traditional wedding. Micro-weddings are generally your closest friends and family, and many of them will want to give you something on your special day. But it's less about "my dinner cost X so I'll give X as a gift" and more about a genuine gesture from people who love you.

Colorado Micro-Weddings!

Best places for a micro-wedding in Colorado?
Rocky Mountain National Park, Chautauqua Park, Garden of the Gods, Sunrise Amphitheater, Windy Point, Sapphire Point, the Clocktower, Denver Botanic Gardens — lots of great options. And we have plenty more if you want something off the beaten path.

Can I have a micro-wedding at Rocky Mountain National Park?
Yes! The park is one of the most popular small wedding locations in Colorado. It accommodates groups up to 30 guests, the scenery is unbeatable, and the permit is just $300. It books up fast, so plan ahead. Checkout our All-Inclusive Rocky Mountain National Park Elopement Packages!

What's the best time of year for an outdoor micro-wedding in Colorado?
Mid-June through mid-October is peak season — the weather is most predictable and the mountains are gorgeous. That said, we do weddings outside year-round. Winter elopements in the snow can be absolutely stunning if you're prepared for the cold. Checkout The Best Time to Elope in Colorado.

Colorado Micro-Wedding & Elopement Packages
Starting at $1,300

—Officiant (starting at $300)
—Photography (starting at $500)
—Videography (starting at $900)
—Flowers (starting at $100)
—Wedding Planner (starting at $500)

Everything you need for a beautiful and stress-free small wedding!
All-Inclusive | 100% Customizable | 0 - 80 Guests
Vendors | Venues | Marriage License | Permits | Dining | Lodging