Micro Weddings In Massachusetts: Why A Smaller Celebration Might Be Right For You
- hello305687
- 2 days ago
- 5 min read
A few years ago, I photographed a wedding that felt more like a family dinner than an event (in the best way!), and it's stuck with me since then.
Christine and Joe invited just 15 of their closest people to their intimate church ceremony nestled in the Boston Seaport. After saying 'I do,' they walked with their guests—yes, walked!—to the water for photos before heading to Row 34 for dinner. There were no wedding favors, no garter toss, no endless formalities and traditions that you feel like you have to do. Just oysters, wine, and the kind of toasts that make you laugh through your tears.
Every person there wasn’t just a name on a guest list. They were people who knew the couple intimately, and that made the entire day feel deeply emotional, joyful, and that much more personal.
That’s the kind of experience you can create when you choose to go small.
So, What Is A Micro Wedding?
If you’ve been hearing the term but aren’t totally sure what it means, here’s how I define it:
A micro wedding typically has fewer than 25 guests. But more than the number, it’s about the energy. These weddings are deeply intentional and personalized. You’re not doing things because “you’re supposed to”—you’re doing what actually feels meaningful to you.
For some couples, that might look like a cozy backyard dinner party with string lights, homemade cocktails, and a playlist filled with your favorite songs. For others, it’s a mountaintop elopement followed by a picnic and champagne. And sometimes, it’s as simple (and beautiful) as a city hall ceremony and dinner at the restaurant where you had your first date.
There’s no one way to “do” a micro wedding—and that’s the whole point.
Is A Smaller Celebration Right For You?
Micro weddings aren’t just about cutting the guest list—they’re about creating a celebration that feels more aligned, more intentional, and more you. If you’re leaning toward something smaller, here’s why that might feel right:
You want full control. Planning a micro wedding means you get to make every decision based on what really matters to you without worrying about what's expected or traditional.
You’d rather skip the spotlight. If big crowds make you nervous, an intimate setting can help you feel more relaxed, grounded, and genuinely yourself.
You care about connection. With fewer guests, you can spend time with everyone there and create real memories, while still prioritizing your own experience.
You’re over the wedding “production.” You don’t need a 12-hour timeline or 200 charger plates to make your day feel special. You just need intention, love, and a plan that feels manageable.
You want to spend your budget intentionally. A smaller guest count gives you more freedom to invest in the things that matter most—like a photographer you love, an incredible meal, or an experience you’ll never forget.
The Emotional Benefits Of Micro Weddings
There’s a certain kind of magic that happens when your wedding day isn’t about putting on a show. And with a micro wedding, it's only about being surrounded by the people who love you most.
You’re more present. You’re not racing from table to table or worrying about whether the DJ is sticking to the timeline. You get to breathe, look around, and take in what’s happening.
You invite people because you want them there—not because you have to. There’s no pressure to include your mom’s coworker or that cousin you haven’t seen since you were six. Every person at your wedding is someone who knows you, supports you, and is genuinely excited to witness this chapter of your life.
The day flows with ease. When there’s less to manage, there’s more room to enjoy. You’re not stressing about seating charts or speeches running long. If you want to linger over dinner, or sneak away for a sunset walk, you can. You’re not locked into a rigid schedule, meaning you’re free to let the day unfold naturally.
You’re not performing. You don’t have to be “on.” You don’t have to smile through a dozen group photos or pretend you’re not exhausted by hour eight. With fewer eyes on you, you get to let your guard down. Be goofy. Be emotional. Be fully yourself. And that authenticity is what makes your wedding feel unforgettable.
And here’s one of my favorite parts: that emotional freedom is obvious in every single photo.
How I Photograph Micro Weddings Differently
At bigger weddings, I’m often able to hang back a bit—to move through the day quietly, blending into the background while I capture everything as it unfolds.
But with micro weddings? I’m part of the party.
There’s something about a smaller guest list that naturally pulls me in closer. I’ll find myself chatting with your dad about how proud he is. I’ll wipe lipstick off someone’s teeth before family photos. I’ll laugh at your best friend’s speech and probably tear up right alongside your mom during the vows.
And because it’s a more intimate setting, I don’t need to keep my camera up at all times. I can read the room, sense when someone’s having a moment, and gently document it without interrupting the flow. I’m not posing you constantly or making things feel stiff. Instead, I’m watching for the tiny, meaningful things that will make your day feel incredibly special and yours.
Thinking About Planning A Micro Wedding In Massachusetts?
If your gut is telling you that a big wedding just isn’t your thing—you’re not alone. More and more couples are choosing to slow it all down and plan something more intentional and less traditional.
If you’re leaning toward a smaller celebration, here’s my honest advice: Do it your way.
Do it because you want to feel relaxed, connected, and yourself on your wedding day, and because you want to remember how it felt, not how stressed you were.
And if you’re still on the hunt for a venue that fits that intimate, laid-back vibe, here are a few of my favorite spots in Massachusetts for micro weddings:
The Herb Lyceum – Tucked away and wildly charming. Think: gardens, herbs, twinkle lights, and dinner party energy in the best possible way.
SRV Boston – An Italian restaurant in the South End that somehow feels both elegant and cozy. It’s the kind of place where your guests will actually enjoy the food (and probably ask for seconds).
New England Botanic Garden At Tower Hill – Full of natural light, greenhouse architecture, and the kind of quiet beauty that makes every photo feel a little bit magical.
Bottom line? Your wedding doesn’t have to be big to be meaningful. It doesn’t have to follow tradition to be unforgettable. It just has to feel like you and that's enough.
Ready To Start Planning?
If you’re planning a micro wedding in Massachusetts and want photos that feel just as personal and intentional as your day, I’d love to be part of it.
My approach to photography is all about connection, ease, and documenting your day in a way that feels natural, not staged. Whether you’re eloping in your favorite spot or planning an intimate dinner with your closest people, I’m here to capture the moments that matter most.
Here's how you can get to know me better:
Read all about me on my About page
Learn more detailed information about my wedding photography services
Reach out to me directly and let's talk all about your big day
