How to Downsize your Wedding

2024 has brought up all kinds of questions that we never thought we’d have to answer – covid allowed us time to really think and slow down. In doing this we had time to think outside the box and how we could do things in new ways. Another flow on effect from the past 3 years is some couples don’t have the same budget for a few reasons so downsizing or adjusting your wedding plans means looking at your wedding in a new way.

Today, we have gone ahead and done the work for you. Here are our top tips on how to downsize your wedding!


1. Review Your Guest List
We really get intentional on who is coming to your reception as ceremony is often an easier one to fit extra people at no extra cost. I always suggest making the wish list of guests from both sides from the couple as a starting point. This will guide you on what your total PAX size is likely to be. Don’t feel obligued to invite everyone from when you were 15 years of age – invite your nearest and dearest. Also be careful when you are inviting parent friends as this is where I see your numbers explode. A solid way to communicate to your parents is to give them a number of guests they are welcome to invite or say we can go bigger but every guest is $160pp so we will need a contribution to cover this provided your venue can fit the PAX size if its much larger than you expected.


2. Consider Smaller Venues

A smaller wedding, calls for a smaller venue. Browse your favourite restaurants and small venues, and send through enquiries – you’ll be surprised at some of the awesome packages that are currently on offer.


3. Consider Eloping
Are you struggling to cut down your guest list? Worried you’ll offend certain friends? Do you want to get married now, but have a big celebration later? The solution – ELOPE! Have a discussion with your partner and see if this is something they would be on board with. We have even heard of couples eloping and then will holding their celebration in conjunction with their first child’s Christening!


4. Have A Local Destination Wedding
Australia has the most incredible range of local destination getaways. Rural, wine country, waterfront, coastal – the list goes on! And the great thing is, you don’t have to travel too far. Although the group will be smaller, a stay-cation turned wedding may be more fun than you think!


5. Consider Live Streaming Your Wedding
Platforms such as Zoom, Skype and Facebook are offering some incredible Group Live Streaming options. While your loved ones cannot necessarily watch you exchange your vows in real life, feel free to mail some favours to share the love! A lot of videography companies now offer live streaming as a service to their brand too – check it out!

For more tips on downsizing your wedding 👇🏼

Luke Williams