What is Bare Minimum for a Wedding

Weddings are often synonymous with grandeur, extravagance, and a hefty price tag.

However, when my partner and I decided to tie the knot, we realized that our vision for the day revolved around simplicity and meaning rather than opulence.

This article dives into our journey of planning a bare-minimum wedding—an event that was intimate, memorable, and, most importantly, true to us.

Defining the “Bare Minimum”

The bare minimum for a wedding means different things to different people. For us, it was about focusing on the essentials that celebrated our union without unnecessary stress or expense. We asked ourselves three key questions:

1. Who must be there?
2. What elements matter most to us?
3. How can we stay within our budget?

The Guest List

Our first step was trimming the guest list. We invited only immediate family and our closest friends, a total of 20 people.

This decision reduced costs dramatically and created a cozy atmosphere where everyone felt included and valued.

The Venue

Instead of a traditional banquet hall or destination venue, we chose a local park with a scenic gazebo.

The natural beauty eliminated the need for elaborate decorations. Permits were affordable, and we’d picked a location that held sentimental value for us—our first picnic spot together.

Attire

We ditched the idea of designer outfits and opted for off-the-rack clothing that matched our style. My dress was a simple, elegant piece I found at a boutique sale, and my partner wore a tailored suit he already owned.

The result? We looked and felt fantastic without breaking the bank.

Ceremony Essentials

Our ceremony was officiated by a close friend who got ordained online. This not only saved on officiant fees but also added a deeply personal touch to the day.

We wrote our own vows, making the moment uniquely ours.

Food and Drinks

Instead of a formal sit-down dinner, we arranged for a catered buffet with crowd-pleasing dishes.

Dessert was a small, delicious cake paired with cupcakes, allowing everyone to enjoy a sweet treat.

A simple selection of wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages kept everyone satisfied.

Also Check: How Much is a Pink and White Rose Wedding Bouquet​

Decorations and Extras

We kept decorations minimal: string lights, fresh flowers from a local farmer’s market, and DIY centerpieces crafted from recycled jars.

These touches enhanced the venue without excessive costs or waste.

Photography and Memories

Hiring a professional photographer was one splurge we deemed necessary. Capturing candid moments and the essence of our day was something we didn’t want to compromise on.

To save, we booked a shorter session and relied on guests for additional snapshots.

Reflection

Looking back, our bare-minimum wedding was everything we’d hoped for. It proved that a wedding doesn’t need to be extravagant to be meaningful.

By focusing on what truly mattered—our love and commitment—we created a day that reflected us perfectly.

Tips for Your Bare-Minimum Wedding

1. Prioritize: Identify the elements that are most important to you.
2. Be Resourceful: Consider venues and services that offer natural beauty or flexible options.
3. DIY Where Possible: Small personal touches can make a big difference.
4. Stay True to Yourself: Don’t get caught up in societal expectations.

A bare-minimum wedding doesn’t mean sacrificing joy or memories.

It’s about celebrating love in its purest form, with the people who matter most.

If simplicity speaks to you, don’t be afraid to embrace it—it might just lead to the most beautiful day of your life