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The Micro Wedding Movement – Why small is the new luxe.

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Once upon a time, the dream wedding incorporated a cathedral length train,  a ballroom packed with upwards of 200 guests, and a spreadsheet that gave you mild heart palpitations. Not anymore. In 2025, couples are saying “I do” to a different kind of celebration – one that’s smaller, sleeker, and a whole lot more stylish.

Welcome to the era of micro weddings –  here less guest-list equals more everything else. Think luxury details, meaningful moments, and weddings that feel more like a perfectly curated dinner party than a production.

Image via The Anti – Bride

So what exactly us a micro wedding?

A micro wedding typically includes 10 to 50 of your nearest and dearest. It’s not an elopement (though we love those too), and it’s not just a regular wedding with fewer chairs. It’s an entire mindset shift. The focus? Quality over quantity, intention over obligation.

It’s about choosing who you really want there – and celebrating your love story with just the people who matter most. Think: more connection, more champagne, less stress.

Image via @ The Lane

Why is it the chicest choice right now?

You Get to Go All Out (Without Going Overboard) – With a smaller guest count, your budget stretches further. That means room for the extras that actually make the day unforgettable – a private chef, a champagne tower, luxe custom signage, or even a saxophonist playing during golden hour cocktails.

 The Personal Touches Hit Harder – From handwritten notes on place cards to personalised playlists and monogrammed napkins, micro weddings give you the chance to inject you into every little detail. The result? A wedding that doesn’t just look stunning, but feels like you.

You’ll Actually Remember It All – Smaller weddings = less rushing around = more time for real moments. Chatting with guests. Dancing without a run sheet. Sharing a private sunset toast with your new spouse. These are the moments you’ll hold onto – and you won’t need to scroll Instagram to remember them.

Image via @ Liz Rudman

Big trends for Small Weddings: 

So what’s hot in the micro wedding world right now? Here’s what we’re loving!

Luxe coastal venues — think waterfront decks, garden terraces, and boutique restaurants with killer views.
Statement styling — long feasting tables, layered textures, and sculptural florals are everywhere.
Untraditional timelines — hello, Thursday sunset ceremonies and Sunday brunch receptions.
Experience-focused details — oyster bars, espresso martini carts, live acoustic duos, and late-night food trucks.
Fashion freedom — bold colour, short dresses, outfit changes, and even white bridal suits (yes please)!

Image via brides.com

It’s not just a trend – it’s a movement

This movement isn’t about doing less. It’s about doing what feels right. For some couples, that’s a big bash — and we love that. But for others, it’s a dreamy dinner party with string lights, a heartfelt ceremony, and just enough guests to fill a long table and your heart.

In a world that’s obsessed with more, micro weddings are the reminder we didn’t know we needed: that meaningful is the new over-the-top. And honestly? We’re here for it.

Micro weddings at Wharf Events

Dreaming of a small wedding that’s big on style? We’ve teamed up with the incredible team at Glass House Country Weddings — the micro wedding and elopement pros — to help you pull off an unforgettable celebration at one of the Sunshine Coast’s most iconic coastal venues.

From intimate “I dos” by the water to beautifully styled receptions with your nearest and dearest, our partnership makes planning effortless and elevated. Think dreamy details, expert coordination, and a setting that speaks for itself.

Image via @ Wharf Events x Glass House Country Weddings
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