The Difference Between Elopements and Micro Weddings

You just got engaged? Congratulations! Now comes the exciting part: deciding what kind of wedding feels right for you. One thing I’ve noticed over time is that couples sometimes confuse elopements with micro weddings. They sound similar, but they’re actually two very different ways to celebrate your love. Let’s break it down.

An elopement is all about intimacy and intention. Years ago, eloping meant running off to Vegas or heading to the courthouse in secret, but today it has evolved into something a little different. Elopements are focused entirely on you and your partner, without the pressure of hosting a big event. They usually include little to no guests, maybe just your closest family members or a couple of friends. The day itself is designed around your story, not a rigid timeline or long list of traditions. Elopements often take place in unique locations, whether it’s the mountains, the desert, the beach, or even on a city rooftop. At the heart of it, an elopement is about stripping away the distractions and creating a wedding day that is personal, intentional, and true to the two of you.

A micro wedding, on the other hand, is more like a scaled-down version of a traditional wedding. It typically includes around 20 to 50 guests, which makes it feel more intimate but still celebratory. A micro wedding usually has many of the same elements you’d expect at a full-size wedding, like a ceremony, dinner, toasts, and sometimes even a first dance, just on a smaller scale. It keeps the closeness of an intimate gathering while still giving you the joy of celebrating with your closest circle of friends and family.

The key difference between the two comes down to size, structure, and the overall vibe. Elopements are often adventurous, flexible, and deeply personal, while micro weddings lean into the balance of intimacy and tradition. Elopements are usually about the two of you first and foremost, while micro weddings still carry that sense of community and shared celebration.

So which one is right for you? If you picture saying your vows on a cliff at sunset with just the two of you, an elopement may be the perfect fit. If you want to share your day with your parents, siblings, and closest friends but still keep it small and meaningful, a micro wedding might be exactly what you’re looking for. The truth is, there’s no wrong choice. What matters most is that your day reflects who you are as a couple and what feels right for your story.
Whether you choose to elope or host a micro wedding, both are beautiful alternatives to the traditional big wedding. As a Southern California elopement and intimate destination wedding photographer, I love helping couples create a day that’s true to them, whether that means an adventurous escape or an intimate celebration surrounded by loved ones.