How to plan an intimate wedding

 

If you’ve just gotten engaged, congratulations! Wedding planning can seem scary at first. The most common thing couples ask us as Calgary wedding photographers is “who do we invite?” You likely have parents and family asking who will attend. Queue the stress! It can be daunting planning a wedding with a large guest list but still have it feel intimate. We are here to let you know you can create an intimate feeling wedding, even with a large guest list.

We’ve crafted a list of several ideas on how to plan an intimate wedding with a large guest list. Have a look and see what suits you and your partner best.

 

Beautiful Romantic Lighting

Depending on your venue, creating a romantic feeling with lighting can make it much more intimate. Think about the coziness of string lights, candles and hanging chandelier dinner lights. These can make large venues or spaces feel much more intimate.

 

 

 

Change Up The Tables and Seating

Determining where to seat family and friends can be quite difficult with a large guest list. If you are concerned about guests sparking conversation, try taking a risk and changing your seating arrangement. Mix friends with family and mix different friend groups together. Rather than long tables, mix in some smaller round tables through your venue space as well. This allows for movement and also is visually appealing and inviting.

 

Have Your Intimate Large Wedding as a Multi-Day Event

If you are within budget, consider spreading your wedding over several days. This gives everyone a chance to meet each other and allows the couple to give additional time to their guests. There are many different activities you can do together as well!

Involve Guests for an Intimate Wedding

Plenty of traditions and ceremonies help to create an intimate feeling wedding. A popular choice is the ring warming ceremony where guests pass rings to warm them prior to the ceremony. Guests can be invited to say a few words or have a toast with your guests after your ceremony.

 

Create a Photo Booth Area

 

Many weddings we photograph have photo booths. They are such a fun touch that allows your guests to kick back and be silly. They are also a fantastic way of documenting your reception. It also gives you a great opportunity to interact with your guests.

Create an Intimate Lounge Space

Wedding guests love to mingle and relax! Couches and lounge chairs are a huge hit at every wedding we photograph because they are so cute and comfortable. Lounge spaces give guests a space to relax and encourages mingling and conversation as well as a place to take a break from dancing.

 

Larger weddings are so fun and we hope that these ideas help spark joy in planning a more intimate experience for your guests.