A wedding is a wedding, right? Ehhh, not exactly. While all types of marriage celebrations are based around the marriage, there truly are differences between them.
In everyday conversation, using the phrase ‘wedding’ may be appropriate. When talking to vendors, or asking advice on social media forums (where vendors such as myself might comment), it is important to differentiate between them to ensure you are receiving the correct pricing, service offerings, advice, etc.
- Wedding: The most traditional type of marriage celebration, with more than 50 guests.
- Elopement: The couple and officiant/witness, only. Elopements began as the engaged couple being wed in secrecy, and often times, a locale they have “run away to”. Sounds outdated, I know. But it’s the best way to describe it! Key take away- the couple, only.
- Mini-Wedding: Mini’s are generally guests lists of 50 or less
- Micro-Wedding: Micro’s, also known as “intimate weddings”, are for 20 guests or less
- Destination Wedding: Pack your bags (and figure out how to safely transport a wedding dress, among other wedding needs)! Destination weddings can be for any number of people but are hosted a distance from where the bride and groom reside.
- Wedding Weekend: The whole kit & caboodle! Welcome parties, larger rehearsal dinners, the wedding ceremony and reception, brunch the next morning… you name it. Any and all celebrations over a few days’ time form a wedding weekend.
- Courthouse Wedding: The reasons a couple may opt for a courthouse wedding will vary, but this is exactly what it sounds like. A small number of family members or close friends (10 or less is recommended) may be present for the civil ceremony at your county courthouse. Brides often opt for a cocktail dress, suit, jumpsuit, or less formal gown for courthouse weddings. Often, a nice dinner may follow, or even a 1-year anniversary reception when time and funds permit.
- Popup Wedding: Similar to a courthouse wedding, the guest list is small and the setting is informal. Couples may opt to meet guests and an officiant in a public locale that has special meaning or is exceptionally beautiful, for a quick exchange of vows. No décor, rentals, etc. is needed. Think mini mob flash, but bystanders are cheering on your nuptials!
- Virtual Wedding: Virtual weddings gained major steam during the pandemic, for obvious reasons. It’s a tad hard to have a wedding when large gatherings are not permitted. While the trend virtually disappeared (sorry, I love a good pun), some couples will still live stream their ceremony for guests that are unable to attend.
Why do vendors rates vary depending on the type of wedding, you ask? The size of the wedding, location, duration, etc. will all factor into the length of time on site, travel, level of detail, and other important aspects of services being provided. I encourage clients to think through scenarios as if you were a vendor. Would it make sense, as a photographer for example, to charge the same for each scenario below:
- 10-hour wedding day with 200 guests being hosted 2 hours from where you’re located, and a wedding party of 18 plus a large family needing photos
OR
- 60 minutes to capture a courthouse exchange of vows and shots of the couple plus 10 guests, 15 minutes from your locale?
To ensure you receive the best service and quote possible, vendors need the correct details and ALL details.
Helping YOU say ‘I-DO’,
Your WedUcator