I had myself a big wedding. And don’t get me wrong—it was a dream. I married the love of my life, partied with my people, and remember the day as one of the very best.
However, over the years, as I’ve had the chance to walk alongside so many couples during their planning process and photograph them on their big day, I’ve come to realize something: those who choose a more intimate wedding often seem to truly enjoy the entire day. Their moments feel slower, more meaningful, and so much more focused on connection.
As a wedding photographer, I’ve come to believe that intimate weddings aren’t just beautiful—they’re better.
So, What Is an Intimate Wedding?
When I hear “intimate wedding,” I picture anywhere from 5 to 60 people—your closest family and friends. Not your parents’ work friends you felt obligated to invite, or the neighbors down the street who might feel left out. I’m talking about your ride-or-dies, the people who’ve been there through every step of your relationship. The ones you can’t imagine the day without.
Now, if you’ve got more than 60 ride-or-dies? More power to you! An intimate wedding might not be for you—and that’s okay, too. But if you feel like narrowing your list down would bring a sigh of relief… keep reading. You might be about to plan a day that’s exactly what you’ve been dreaming of.
Why Intimate Weddings Are Better
If you’re wondering why intimate weddings are better, here are the biggest reasons I believe they are:
1. All Around Flexibility
That’s the big one. With fewer guests, you’ll have more flexibility with your time, your venue, the events of the day, and even financially. There are so many more options when you’re not trying to accommodate 200 people. It’s your day—a truly small wedding gives you the freedom to make it yours.
2. Flexibility with Time
As the bride and groom, you’ll want to say hello to each of your guests—they came to celebrate and support you! But multiply those quick conversations by 200 and suddenly, you’re spending your wedding day making small talk instead of soaking in the moment.
Now imagine a day with just 20 or 30 of your closest people. You’ll have more time to connect, more time with your new husband or wife, and more room to be fully present.
3. Flexibility with Location
The bigger the wedding, the bigger the venue. Your options shrink fast when you need space for a large crowd. But with a smaller guest list you have nearly unlimited possibilities.
Here are just a few of my favorite intimate wedding days at a few of my favorite locations!
Zach and Porscha had the sweetest day and ended it at Casa Bovina with one of the most beautiful receptions I’ve been to (and one of the most delicious meals I’ve had!).
Kevin and Becca celebrated with their nearest and dearest at a family home with the coziest backyard wedding.
Brooklyn and Chayce headed to the Swiss Alps for the mountaintop elopement of their dreams!
Lucille’s Old Market or The Bohemian Gardens are two gorgeous, intimate wedding venues in Omaha. Both perfect for a dreamy garden wedding.
4. Flexibility with Traditions & Events
Want to grab coffee with your fiancé the morning of your wedding? Or share brunch with everyone before heading to the courthouse? An intimate wedding gives you the freedom to build a day that’s true to you. Whether it’s a simple ceremony at the park followed by dinner at your favorite local spot, or something totally different and unexpected, it’s up to you!
5. Financial Flexibility
Smaller guest list = smaller expenses. Instead of shelling out thousands for a venue or catering 200 meals, you can spend intentionally. Maybe that’s a five-star dinner, an unforgettable honeymoon, or a destination wedding in a place you’ve always dreamed about.
6. Dare I say… Better Photos?!?
With more flexibility, fewer guests to accommodate, more time with your loved ones, and a day that actually feels like YOU… you’ll be fully present and truly enjoying each moment. And I’ll be there to capture every bit of it.
It’s easy to grab beautiful, real, and emotional photos when the day is filled with beautiful, real, and emotional moments. In my experience, intimate weddings have more of these. The bride and groom feel more comfortable, the guests are fully immersed in the love story, and the pictures turn out genuine every single time.
At the end of the day, your wedding should feel like you.
And that’s why intimate weddings are better. They’re quiet, calm, sometimes even peaceful. You get to slow down, breathe deep, and actually be with your people. Intimate weddings give you the space to soak it all in and make the day entirely your own—and that’s something worth celebrating.
If you’re dreaming up your own intimate wedding and want someone to capture the in-between moments, the deep breaths, and all the genuine emotion, I’d love to be there.
Let’s chat about your day, your people, and how we can make your wedding feel just right
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