Here we go again with the topic we can’t seem to shake. No matter where in the world we are, Covid-19 has had its effects on the lives of many. Including jobs, homes, and fantastical events. 

As a photographer based in the Philadelphia region (West-Philly to be specific), I’m normally at weddings all year round taking breath-taking pictures of every couple on their special day. But, things have changed and so must we. 

In recent times, we’ve all been requested to either cancel, post-pone, or downsize the big days in order to stay safe and protect our families. So, I thought I’d put together a list of 5 essential tips to help you downsize into a micro-wedding.

1.Create a List of Close-Family Members

There are family members you couldn’t simply imagine your big day without, and there’s others on your spouse’s side you probably could. You’ll need to invite the in-laws anyway, luckily you only need to make sure it’s a small circle. As a photographer, I can vouch they’ll always provide great symmetry in the memories.

2. Think About Other Loving People in Your Bubble

If you and your partner have roommates, there’s no need to worry about turning them down from the big day because you’re in the same bubble! In fact, it would be safer to bring people you already interact with than new friendly faces.

When you’ve got a large gathering, even after you downsize your wedding, it’s important to take the responsible action of keeping everyone you love safe. Common themes throughout have been to include friends and family you regularly see to be at the formal event. Then, organize a get-together on your first anniversary to have your true big do with everyone you care about. A top tip from the pro at making memories; even if you’re not one to hire a photographer twice, make sure to take enough pictures and videos on your second big day! 

3. Try Limiting it to an Adult-Only Party

One way to create a micro-wedding with understanding is to say it is an adult-only do. While some parents may disagree at first, adult-only has actually been a theme throughout space-saving, dollar-saving and loud noise-saving do’s before micro-wedding sizes were essential. 

So, if your guest list involves an armada of adorable little feet, suggest setting them up with the latest Disney movie DVD, a card, and some popcorn at home. This way, they can enjoy your day without needing to be there and you’ll successfully downsize your wedding. 

4. Say No to Plus ones 

Sometimes, we can all admit, that plus ones can be an awkward mix to a wedding day. They say the wrong thing, sit in the wrong place or wear white (why?). So, to prevent the awkward hassle, use the global pandemic as an excuse to say; ‘invitees only’!

5. Introduce a Virtual Wedding Sphere 

The best thing to come out of needing to work from home and isolate is that video chat rooms and people’s engagement with them have skyrocketed. And, there’s one sure-fire way you don’t have to downsize your wedding; invite everyone you love to join the fun through the virtual window. With your close bubble still attending the in-person micro-wedding, set up a couple of laptops or phones and the guest list doesn’t need to shrink.

Bonus tip: One thing you can do to bring a little extra chic to the wedding day; have some custom face masks made for all your guests to wear. It’s a keepsake, memory, and way to ensure the color themes stay on track. 

After spending years in the Philly photography ring, I’ve witnessed weddings big and small. And, the one thing that stands out in a micro-wedding is the sheer joy and intimate interaction between every guest that’s there. No shouting across the room, no speaking to a relative who last saw you when you were “just this big and still holding blankie everywhere you went”. It’s guaranteed calm and bliss when you downsize your wedding.

I hope you’ve enjoyed these 5 top tips to help you downsize into a micro-wedding and you’ve found them useful towards making your big day as special as it can be. Feel free to contact me to find out more!