Many couples are now looking at smaller weddings mostly because of the pandemic. The current guidelines for organising a wedding allow not more than 30 people in attendance. Though planning this kind of ceremony may seem less stressful, it can be demanding too. The challenge lies in making such a small ceremony as fun as a big wedding. Nonetheless, with the right guidelines, it is still possible to make a small wedding spectacular. Find the right venue Given the limited guest list, Vestine Tuyishime, a wedding decorator, believes that finding the right venue matters a lot when organising a small wedding. According to her, finding the right space that best fits your guests is crucial. “Look for a place that is small but cosy. Mind the décor, just like with big weddings. Also, ensure to give your guests a tranquil but thrilling ceremony no matter how small the gathering may seem. You can do this by creating an appealing aura; the décor and entertainment matter,” she says. Focus on making memories Sheila Muyumbo got married last year. Her ceremony was nothing like she had planned for, however, she had to adjust and focus on the union rather than the ceremony itself, she says. At church, apart from her and the groom, there were only a few others as witnesses. And even after that, very few people joined them for a very small celebration held as the reception, she recalls. “At first it bothered me but I later accepted it for what it was,” she says, adding that what matters when organising small ceremonies is to make the most of the experience. “However your wedding ends up looking like, make the most of the day. Focus on creating happy memories with your husband and the people in attendance. Attitude matters in creating the right energy for small ceremonies.” Mind the small details With only a handful of guests, Remy Irakoze, an accountant, says it’s important to focus on the small details, noting that with such a ceremony, it’s what matters anyway. Since, the expenses are lower than that of a big wedding, a couple has to spend on small details such as table cards or appreciating notes, he says. “Let all the items at the venue be outstanding, have the décor be on point and most importantly have plenty of food and drinks.” Involve your guests According to The Knot, a wedding site, it’s important to get your guests involved in the event. Depending on the size of the event, you can have everyone read a line of a special reading at the ceremony, have them stand and encircle you as you exchange your vows, seat them at one big table at the wedding reception, or have everyone attend the rehearsal dinner. Mind the décor, just like with big weddings. Photos/Net Select a meaningful venue With a limited guest list, your wedding venue options open up. Think outside of the box for your small wedding’s location. Book time at your go-to brewery or exchange vows inside a stunning greenhouse. Invite your guests to a hidden beach inlet, your favourite art gallery or your childhood backyard. The options are endless, but one effective way to narrow the search is to think about your relationship. Consider the place you met, got engaged, said “I love you”, or dined at for those many date nights, The Knot indicates. Have your guests attend virtually Having your loved ones celebrate with you on such a big day means a lot. Not having them attend because of restrictions can be heart-breaking, but in such instances, one can choose to make use of the technology. With a few guests at the venue, plan to have others join in on your celebration via online platforms such as Zoom.
