When it comes to planning an intimate wedding, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Some couples dream of exchanging vows alone in an epic location, while others want a small, meaningful gathering with close family and friends.

If you’re deciding between an elopement and a micro wedding, understanding their differences can help you choose the perfect experience for your love story.

Couple runs to the courthouse to make their elopement appointment Asheville north carolina

What Is an Elopement?

An elopement is an intimate, experience-driven way to get married, typically with just the couple or a handful of guests (usually fewer than 10). It’s all about prioritizing the moment—without the expectations or traditions of a big wedding.

Elopement Characteristics:

✔ Usually just the couple or up to 10 guests
✔ Takes place in a meaningful or adventurous location
✔ Focuses on experience over tradition (no structured reception)
✔ Often involves a relaxed or flexible timeline
✔ Less planning and fewer vendors involved

Elopements Are Perfect For Couples Who…

Want a deeply personal, distraction-free wedding experience
Dream of exchanging vows in a remote or breathtaking location
Prefer minimal planning and less stress
Don’t feel the need to follow traditional wedding structures
Want the freedom to elope spontaneously or travel somewhere special

Examples of Elopements:

A sunrise ceremony on a mountaintop, just the two of you
A city hall elopement, followed by a romantic dinner
A destination elopement in a dreamy location like Iceland or Italy
A forest or beach elopement, focused on connection and nature

elope asheville nc courthouse buncombe county architecture bride and groom winter

What Is a Micro Wedding?

A micro wedding is a small, intimate wedding with up to 50 guests. It’s a great option for couples who want a wedding that still feels special and celebratory—but without the pressure of a large event.

Micro Wedding Characteristics:

✔ Typically 15 to 50 guests
✔ Can take place at a venue, private estate, Airbnb, or scenic location
✔ More structured than an elopement but still relaxed and intimate
✔ Often includes a small reception, dinner, or celebration
✔ Includes more traditional wedding elements (but on a smaller scale)

Micro Weddings Are Perfect For Couples Who…

Want an intimate wedding but still include close friends & family
Like the idea of a structured celebration with personal touches
Want to keep some wedding traditions (but without the big guest list)
Prefer a venue-based wedding rather than a remote location
Love the idea of a small dinner party or reception after their ceremony

Examples of Micro Weddings:

A small vineyard wedding with an intimate candlelit dinner
A destination micro wedding with 30 guests in a scenic location
A backyard micro wedding with a cozy, relaxed atmosphere
A boutique hotel wedding with a beautiful reception setup

winter elopement maroon suit fur coat asheville nc

Which One Is Right for You?

Choose an Elopement If…
✅ You want a private, personal experience with just the two of you
✅ You don’t want to worry about guest lists, seating charts, or large-scale planning
✅ You’d rather invest in an unforgettable experience over a big event
✅ You love the idea of adventuring to a special or unique location

Choose a Micro Wedding If…
✅ You love the idea of a small, meaningful wedding with family & friends
✅ You want a beautiful venue, dinner, or celebration without the full wedding production
✅ You still want some traditional wedding elements—just on a smaller scale
✅ You want to celebrate with your closest loved ones but keep it low-stress

golden light asheville nc elopement photo bride and groom

At the End of the Day, It’s About What Feels Right

Whether you choose to elope just the two of you or have a cozy micro wedding with your closest family and friends, the most important thing is that your wedding day feels true to you.

If you’re still deciding, I’d love to help you create the perfect experience—whether that means capturing an adventurous elopement or an intimate micro wedding.