Want tips for planning a perfect intimate wedding in Portugal, but don’t want a wedding with just the two of you?
At the same time, have you never dreamed of a big wedding? You identify with an elopement but can’t imagine getting married without some close family and friends.
Those who follow us might think we only organize elopements with just the couple. But in reality, some couples don’t want to give up having their loved ones present on their wedding day.
Rest assured that even with guests, our weddings remain incredibly authentic because the main thing is never lost: the couple gets to do 100% of what they truly want on their special day. If having a more intimate day includes a few cherished people, let’s make it happen! And I promise it will be beautiful.
Many reasons lead couples to avoid something as private as an elopement, yet they also don’t want the headache of a traditional wedding with many guests and the rigid rules imposed by the wedding industry. If that sounds like you, keep reading!
What is an INTIMATE WEDDING?
A simple Google search will show you countless definitions, each setting a different minimum number of guests. For us, a micro-wedding is a celebration that does not exceed 50 guests. However, we don’t define whether a wedding is an elopement or a micro-wedding based solely on guest count, but rather on the intention behind the experience.
Traditional weddings often overwhelm couples with endless decisions, with more focus on the party itself rather than the couple. An intimate wedding maintains all the essence of a pure and authentic celebration while still allowing some special guests to be present.
The key difference in planning an intimate wedding is just that—the celebration is 100% centered on the couple, without the rigid traditions and structures of large weddings. Of course, there are traditional weddings with all the expected etiquette and structure, only with fewer guests. But the couples we work with typically want to escape from that—they want a genuine and personalized wedding, even when they invite some guests.
Tips for a Perfect Intimate Wedding: HOW TO REDUCE THE GUEST LIST
The first step is deciding to have an intimate wedding. However, determining who will be part of this small group can sometimes be a challenge. To help you, here are some suggestions from couples we’ve worked with who successfully navigated this stage:
1. Have an open conversation with your fiancé
Ask each other: How close is this guest to both of us? Do they support our relationship? Would inviting them create any awkwardness with others?
2. Set a limit and try not to exceed it
Don’t invite someone just because of external pressure. Remember, you chose an intimate wedding, and the people present should truly deserve to be part of this special moment.
3. Stick to your limit
It doesn’t matter how you decided on your guest count—whether by location restrictions or a number you both agreed on—stick to it. If necessary, you can even use the venue’s capacity as an excuse.
4. Be honest
If someone who isn’t invited asks about attending, be upfront. Explain that as a couple, you opted for something intimate, making it impossible to invite everyone you’d like to.
Tips for a Perfect Intimate Wedding: HOW TO PLAN
Once you’ve decided on your wedding style and budget, the next step is to bring your intimate wedding to life.
1. Choose a date
Before booking anything, it’s crucial to choose a wedding date. If you haven’t set one yet, don’t worry! We can help you decide by discussing key points, pros, and cons of different dates and locations.
2. Pick a venue
Many couples don’t have a venue in mind from the start. That’s why we have a detailed conversation to understand your preferences before selecting a location and checking if any special permits or requirements are needed.
3. Plan the small details
An intimate wedding is much simpler to organize than a large one. Still, choosing and coordinating the right vendors is essential to making your day special.
4. Finally, relax!
Once all the details are settled, it’s time to enjoy your unique and special day without stress. Everything has been planned—now, just celebrate and cherish the moment!
Tips for a Perfect Intimate Wedding: IDEAL VENUES
For elopements with just the couple, finding a venue is much easier, regardless of the wedding style.
The more guests a couple invites, the more challenging logistics become. For example, if you dream of an adventurous elopement in a remote location that requires hiking, not all guests will feel comfortable or physically capable of reaching the site. However, some venues work beautifully for ceremonies, whether or not the couple has guests.
Here are a few of our favorite intimate wedding venue ideas:
One downside is that beaches are rarely private. However, choosing a strategic time for the ceremony can help avoid crowds. We also know plenty of hidden spots that are perfect for a small, private wedding!
Palaces and Luxury Hotels: Some places in Portugal are fully equipped for intimate weddings, offering great value and an exclusive experience.
Backyard Weddings: Consider a friend or family member’s property with a stunning setting.
Beaches: Portugal has numerous beaches, many with structures for intimate weddings. Just remember to check permit requirements to ensure the location allows ceremonies.
SUGGESTIONS FOR PLANNING AN INTIMATE WEDDING
When you’re getting married with guests, you can include your loved ones in special ways. You can still have an outdoor wedding and a reception—it’s entirely up to you how involved your guests will be! You might say your vows publicly in front of everyone or share them privately with just your partner.
Here are some fun ideas to make your intimate wedding ceremony more than just a vow exchange:
- Ask a friend to officiate—someone who enjoys speaking and has a way with words.
- Include a unity ritual, such as mixing sand or planting a tree, involving your loved ones.
- Ask some guests to write letters to be shared during or after the ceremony.
- Invite a talented friend or family member to play music or create art during the celebration.
If you’re planning the perfect intimate wedding, remember that you can call it an intimate wedding, micro-wedding, or elopement—the most important thing is that you have the wedding of your dreams with the people you truly want there.
Ready to start planning? Get in touch with us! We’d love to help make your dream wedding a reality!