There’s no way to know exactly how many couples were forced to postpone their weddings as a result of COVID-19. Those couples who didn’t give up on their plans to tie the knot in 2020 were still forced to scale back their big plans for their big day. Instead of a lavish affair with hundreds of guests or perhaps a destination wedding, many stuck close to home. Some even opted to exchange vows in their home. And most cut their guest lists to fit any local restrictions on the number of people allowed to gather.
Even as restrictions continue to ease, many engaged couples are still faced with tough decisions to make. They’re plenty to worry about, like how to safely host wedding guests and plan a day that won’t put their health or the health of others at risk. But small, intimate weddings (like an outdoor affair with a stunning backdrop) are more than just a way to allow for social distancing. They can also be a wonderful opportunity to better share your special day with those close to you. It also allows couples to choose unique venues that may not be able to accommodate larger crowds.
Navigating planning a wedding in the new normal? Keep reading to learn what micro weddings are, why they make sense today and a few reasons why couples may continue to choose them long after COVID-19 is over.
What is a Micro Wedding?
While the term may be modern, micro weddings really aren’t a new concept. Instead, the title of micro wedding refers to nuptials that carry on many time-honored traditions, only on a smaller scale.
Usually hosting 50 or fewer guests, these weddings are perfect for those worried about hosting a larger gathering or who want to celebrate their big day in a smaller venue. But unlike an elopement, micro weddings still keep many of the traditions and practices of larger weddings. In most cases, that means still having a separate ceremony and reception with all of the fixings, from the fancy clothes to the cake to the dancing.
Is a Micro Wedding the Answer to Getting Married During the Pandemic?
There are a number of reasons why a micro wedding might be the best choice for couples looking to tie the knot in the coming months or even in the next couple of years.
Keeping your guest list on the smaller side reduces the risk of spreading illness. You could opt to only invite guests that you already are regularly in close contact with, which means fewer guests traveling great distances to attend. If you’re dreaming of a destination wedding, like tying the knot in a national park, tightening your guest list means that fewer friends and family members will have to navigate travel restrictions, quarantines, and various rules on social distancing in order to attend.
Other Reasons to Opt for a Micro Wedding
A micro wedding is more than just a solution to the challenges couples are facing as a result of COVID-19. It can also be a great way to enjoy a more intimate ceremony while still continuing popular wedding traditions like hosting a reception and dancing the night away.
Spend More Quality Time With Your Guests
With a larger wedding, the bride and groom are likely to spend most of the reception bouncing from one guest to the next. But fewer guests means fewer obligations, and more time to enjoy your big day together.
Open Up Your Options
A smaller guest list also opens up a variety of other opportunities. You have a greater number of choices of venues because you don’t need the same amount of space. Of course, if you’re dreaming of a big wedding and don’t want to give up on an incredible venue, you’re in luck—Cougar Ridge can host weddings with 150 or more guests, all set in a stunning venue that’s picture-perfect from every angle.
A micro wedding may also open up more options for other areas of your big day. You might be able to spend more on great food or other cool upgrades that you would otherwise need to spend to feed a larger crowd.
Extend the Wedding Bliss
You can even turn your wedding day into a longer affair by having your group stay together for the weekend. For instance, our Lodge, which features four master suites and bunk beds on the third floor, is perfect for hosting a small wedding with all of the guests and bridal party in one spot.
Rather than only seeing your guests in the blur that is your big day, you could spend an entire weekend together enjoying one another’s company and celebrating your nuptials. Spend your Friday evening enjoying some pampering and quality time together. Relax as you easily go from your suite to the ceremony space to the reception and right into your comfortable bed on the big day. Your group might opt to end the night with a campfire or some stargazing, and perhaps take in some of the local sights and activities like horseback riding or hiking with the newly married couple before traveling back home.
Booking Your Micro Wedding or Traditional Wedding at Cougar Ridge
Whether you’re dreaming of a big wedding or have opted to scale things back to a micro wedding instead, Cougar Ridge is the ultimate destination. From luxurious accommodations for your guests to stunning spots to hold your ceremony and reception, everything you need is right here on site.
If you’re ready to start planning your upcoming nuptials, give us a call today to learn why Cougar Ridge might just be your dream venue.