Why Have Micro Weddings Popularity Grown?

As I have discussed a few times over the past few months, we have noted an increase in micro weddings popularity since the coronavirus pandemic. This initially came out of the necessity of social distancing and limited gathering numbers. However, many couples have seen the advantages of downsizing their nuptials! Elopements and micro weddings have seen a huge surge in popularity as couples choose to save money and avoid the stress associated with bigger wedding celebrations. This trend isn’t just happening in the United States but globally. I recently read a report from Life Matters in Australia that discussed some interesting points about the growth in micro weddings popularity and wanted to share some of my own thoughts. 

Perception of Elopement Has Changed

One of the important points raised in the article is that society’s perception of elopements has changed. Historically, elopement happened when the marriage was frowned upon for one reason or another. Even up until a few years ago, a lot of that prejudice was still around, even within the wedding industry! However, the pandemic has helped speed up a paradigm shift that has seen an explosion of micro weddings popularity. Choosing a small wedding is now more acceptable for couples. It’s almost as though society is giving us permission to choose the weddings we want over the weddings we are expected to have!

Why Choose a Micro Wedding?

The Life Matters article included some really great comments from some of the podcast listeners who had also opted for a smaller wedding.

• Second Time Around – One listener described how she had eloped to Las Vegas as it was her second marriage, and she had always said if she got married again, it would be an elopement! She took a few friends along for the trip and hosted a small reception in her backyard on returning home!
• Controlling Family – Another bride explained that her in-laws started becoming too controlling regarding wedding plans. Her husband agreed to scrap the big wedding plans and have a small ceremony with just a few friends.
• Prioritizing Your Own Needs – A small wedding was always the plan for another Life Matters listener. She states that she knew it was right for her, so she prioritized her own needs and her guests’ comfort. Just 30 guests got invites despite complaints from extended family who felt entitled to an invite!

What are your thoughts? Do you agree with these reasons why micro weddings popularity has grown?