Planning your wedding is one of the most exciting (and, let's be honest, sometimes overwhelming) adventures you'll ever embark on. With so many styles of celebrations out there-from epic mountaintop elopements to dreamy micro weddings to grand traditional affairs- it's totally normal to sit and wonder: Which one feels the most me? (especially if you're a perfectionist like us)


We're here to help you break it down! Whether you're dreaming of a just-us-two adventure, a cozy gathering with your closest people, or a full-blown party, let's dive into the pros, cons, and vibes of elopements, micro weddings, and traditional weddings to help you find your perfect match!

elopements vs. micro weddings vs. Traditional weddings


Elopements: Intimate, Intentional, and Totally You


What is it?

An elopement is a small, ultra-personal wedding, usually with just the couple (and maybe a handful of guests), often set somewhere wildly beautiful. IN Washington State, that might mean saying your vows atop Mt. Rainier, on a misty beach at Ruby Beach, or in a magical mossy forest in the Olympic National Park.

Pros:

  • Ultimate freedom- you can do literally whatever you want!
  • Focused completely on your relationship.
  • Less pressure, less stress, and often lower costs.
  • Dreamy, adventurous photo opportunities!
  • Can be almost any location- a bucket list spot, something important to you two as a couple, a favorite spot, etc!
  • Is super easy to make the day super personalized and all about you as the couple!
  • Makes it easier for those with smaller budgets to splurge on those expensive details as theres fewer vendors to book and pay for.


Cons:

  • Some family and friends might feel left out.
  • You'll likely need to plan travel logistics if you're heading somewhere remote.
  • Since there are such few details and services to plan and pay for, when one thing goes wrong it can make it seem like the day as whole has been ruined.
  • It can sometimes diminish the "special" and "big" feelings that are tied to wedding days.
  • Often the bridal couple has to do the set up and take down/cleaning themselves.



You Might Love Eloping If:

You crave adventure, you're not into big crowds, you'd rather spend your wedding day hiking to a mountaintop or exploring somewhere magical, and you want a day that's deeply meaningful without all the traditional fuss or if you have a limited budget and want to still have a dramatic landscape or view.

elopemetns vs. micro weddings vs. traditional weddings


Micro Weddings: Small, Sweet, and Seriously Memorable


What is it?

A micro wedding is a small wedding, usually with 20-50 guests. It's like the best parts of a traditional wedding- vows, a beautiful meal, dancing-with a more intimate guest list and more breathing room to focus on what matters most to you.


Pros:

  • You still get the traditional moments (ceremony, first dance, cake!) but on a much smaller scale.
  • Easier to spend quality time with each guest.
  • More flexibility with venues- think private estates, gardens, vineyards, or even an Airbnb in the mountains.
  • More time to experience things mean less time stressing over timelines and seating charts, after all, it's your party and you deserve to enjoy it!
  • Budget can stretch farther toward things you love, like an epic floral installation or a splurge-worthy photographer (hi, it's us!)


Cons:

  • Some traditional expectations might still sneak in.
  • Trimming your guest list can be tricky (hello, family politics).
  • Small doesn't always mean cheaper, and while most venues will be less expensive, costs could still be a shock.


You Might Love a Micro Wedding If:

You want the beauty of a classic wedding day but without the giant guest list. You love the idea of a relaxed, elegant party with your very favorite humans. You want. ada that feels intimate but still packed with celebration.

elopements vs. micro weddings vs. traditional weddings


Traditional Weddings: Big, Joyful, and Unforgettable


What is it?

The big, beautiful wedding you've probably seen in movies-ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner, dancing, and maybe a 200+ guest list. In Washington State, traditional weddings often happen in gorgeous ballrooms, rustic barns, waterfront venues, or mountain lodges.


Pros:

  • All your people are there to celebrate with you!
  • Endless opportunities for traditions like a full bridal party, formal dances, and a packed dance floor.
  • It can feel truly epic and once-in-a-lifetime.
  • The day is truly a nonstop celebration of you, your partner, and your love for each other.
  • Plenty of opportunities to make family feel included and special on your big day! (flower grandmas, daddy daughter dances, dances with mom, toasts, etc).
  • Getting to live out your fairytale wedding is a dream come true and so special to experience.


Cons:

  • Larger guest lists mean more planning (a day of or event coordinator come in clutch for these parties!), higher costs, and sometimes more stress.
  • It can be harder to have meaningful one-on-one time with everyone
  • It can be easy to get lost in the day of jitters and stress of trying to manage everything while also feeling present on your big day.
  • It's easy to get lost in the planning side of things and feel as if you didn't really get to enjoy your wedding day.
  • Because of all the things to manage and get done day of, it can feel like the day slipped past. in the blink of an eye.
  • You may have to sacrifice on some of the details due to costs.


You Might Love a Traditional Wedding If:

You've always dreamed of a packed dance floor, a full wedding party by your side, and being surrounded by everyone who's cheered you on in life. You love a grand, joyful event where you get to be the center of a beautiful, buzzing celebration.

elopements vs. micro weddings vs. traditional weddings


So, Which One Fits You Best?


If you're still torn, here's the secret: there's no wrong answer. It's your day, your love story, your rules. Think about what feels most you.

  • Do you light up at the thought of an intimate, spontaneous adventure?
  • Or would your heart burst seeing all your family and friends laughing, hugging, and tearing up the dance floor together?
  • Maybe you're somewhere in-between- dreaming of an intentional, small gathering with just the people who mean the very most.


No matter what you choose, it's about celebrating your love in a way that feels true, joyful, and unforgettable. Here's our final thoughts on the matter: Trust your heart. The best wedding days aren't about checking boxes-they're about telling your story, in your way. Whether you elope under a waterfall, say "I Do" in front of 30 people at a cozy vineyard, or dance the night away at a historic ballroom, we're here to document every second with heart, joy, and all the candid magic you'll treasure forever.