For a brief moment, it seemed as if we were returning to a semblance of normalcy—or perhaps a new normal. With vaccines becoming widely available and sunny weather arriving, COVID-19 cases began to decline. Mask mandates vanished along with restrictions on indoor gatherings.
For many, this signaled the return of wedding season. Those grand indoor weddings that had been postponed since early 2020 were finally back on the table. Cue the dance floors and heartfelt toasts.
However, that excitement was short-lived. With the Delta variant causing hospitalizations to surge, mask requirements were reinstated at the CDC’s recommendation, leading many couples to reevaluate their wedding plans. Enter the mini-mony.
We spoke with Sarah Blake, the founder of Dreamy Outdoor Weddings, which specializes in enchanting ceremonies in stunning natural locations, to learn more about this emerging trend in wedding planning.
The Rise of Mini-Monies
First off, it’s important to note that mini-monies—also referred to as micro-weddings or elopements—aren’t entirely new. Blake’s company has been organizing intimate micro-weddings (typically involving fewer than twenty guests and planned within six months) long before the pandemic began. Even prior to COVID, she observed a shift towards smaller, more unique events focused on personal experiences rather than large gatherings designed to please family members. The pandemic has only accelerated this trend.
“With the economic impact of COVID and the unpredictable nature of the pandemic, many couples are choosing simpler, more intimate ceremonies in beautiful outdoor settings,” Blake explains.
According to Blake, a mini-mony can host up to fifty guests and still incorporate luxurious elements that matter to the couple. It’s all about curating an experience that reflects their desires with a more manageable guest list. “You can absolutely wear that stunning white dress, hire a photographer for the entire day, and enjoy all the luxury details you wish, just with fewer attendees,” she notes.
Navigating Wedding Planning in Uncertain Times
As COVID-19 continues to evolve, so too must our responses to it. The future remains uncertain, with potential new variants and treatments on the horizon. The key takeaway from the last eighteen months is the importance of adaptability.
Initially, when couples were forced to postpone their weddings, many felt disheartened and frustrated. However, Blake has noticed a newfound resilience among her clients. Couples are now more willing to adjust their plans, acknowledging the need for flexibility.
That said, couples who dream of a large wedding don’t necessarily have to abandon those aspirations. Blake advises, “Reflect on what you genuinely want. If having a large ceremony matters to you, don’t rush into a smaller one just to get married.”
For those eager to tie the knot sooner, she suggests considering a small ceremony followed by a bigger celebration at a later date. “You can do both,” she emphasizes. “It doesn’t have to be one or the other.” In fact, many of Blake’s clients are already legally married; they’re simply hosting their celebration later.
Tips for Planning the Perfect Outdoor Wedding
If you’re leaning towards an outdoor wedding, Blake offers the following suggestions:
- Choose pleasant weather—spring or early autumn are ideal.
- Pick a breathtaking outdoor location, whether it be a beach, farm, mountain, or lake. Her company specializes in securing permits for picturesque venues, like the Grand Canyon, though these often limit guest counts.
- Maintain traditions if you wish; you can still capture reveal photos, participate in the something old-new-borrowed-blue tradition, walk down the aisle, indulge in beautiful attire, and enjoy toasts and music.
- Take pride in hosting an eco-friendly event.
- Capture as many memories through photos and videos as you want.
- Have peace of mind knowing you’re doing everything you can to keep yourselves and your guests safe. An intimate outdoor wedding is less likely to be a “superspreader” situation.
Dr. Emily Grant, an infectious disease specialist, also provides valuable advice for celebrating responsibly:
- Use electronic communication to keep guests informed about any changes in safety protocols.
- Clearly communicate your expectations regarding masking and vaccinations to your guests ahead of time.
- Ensure there’s ample space for social distancing, even outdoors.
While the pandemic has certainly brought mini-monies to the forefront, it’s vital to remember that they aren’t merely a fallback option. Many couples who initially planned grand indoor celebrations have found that their smaller weddings turn out to be more magical than they anticipated—stress-free and beautiful. Blake shares, “People often think a smaller wedding will feel lackluster, but overwhelmingly, they are thrilled with their decision.”
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In summary, mini-monies and micro-weddings are emerging as a beloved trend in the wedding industry, offering couples a chance to celebrate their love in a more intimate and personalized setting. As couples adapt to the ongoing challenges of the pandemic, these smaller gatherings allow for a beautiful blend of luxury and simplicity, proving that love truly shines in any setting.