Why Micro Weddings Are Not a New Trend

I recently came across an article on USA Today with the subtitle ‘How COVID-19 started a new trend in weddings’. The piece made some excellent points about the increase in small weddings and elopements throughout the pandemic, but labeling it a ‘new trend’ didn’t sit right with me. We have been helping couples elope for many years and in that time there has been a steady increase in the demand for smaller, more intimate weddings. I like to think that rather than starting the trend for micro weddings, the pandemic simply helped an existing trend to gain more momentum!

Growing Popularity of Micro Weddings & Elopements

As the COVID-19 pandemic called a halt to large gatherings, many couples had to rethink their wedding plans in 2020. A recent survey by Brides.com suggests that 81% of couples said their expectations for their wedding have changed. Smaller guest lists, elopements, and zoom weddings have taken the place of traditional weddings for many of these couples.

The same survey also revealed that 55% of couples said the pandemic changed their expectations for marriage. This has led to a stronger focus on the vows and love in the partnership rather than the wedding. Many of these couples decided that getting married was more important than waiting for a big wedding and decided to elope or have micro weddings instead. This also suggests that micro weddings will remain a popular option post-pandemic.

Weddings Moving Forward

Many assumed 2021 would bring back some normality to the wedding industry, but that hasn’t been the case thanks to continuing concerns about the Coronavirus. However, we are seeing some emerging trends for the rest of 2021 and the years to follow. As noted above, it looks like micro weddings are here to stay. Couples are taking a less is more approach to their wedding day. Priorities have changed and couples are more worried about who is with them at their wedding as opposed to all of the other elements like décor, accessories, and the rest. Celebrating your marriage with only your closest family and friends is taking priority over lavish parties for hundreds of guests.

How do you feel about micro weddings? We would love to hear your thoughts.