What is an intimate wedding, and why are they trending for 2026 and 2027?
Honestly, it’s not surprising.
Couples are starting to turn away from big weddings.
Not because they can’t have one, but because they’re realizing it doesn’t actually feel like them.
I’ve been talking to a lot of couples lately, and the same thing keeps coming up. They don’t want their wedding day to feel rushed. They don’t want to spend the entire day going from one thing to the next, or trying to make sure every single guest is taken care of.
They just want to be there… with each other.
Table of Contents
- What Is an Intimate Wedding?
- Why Couples Are Choosing Intimate Weddings Over Big Weddings
- It’s Not About Running Away Anymore
- Your Wedding Day Can Feel Different
- Frequently Asked Questions About Intimate Weddings
What Is an Intimate Wedding?
An intimate wedding is exactly what it sounds like, smaller, more intentional, and focused on the experience rather than the production.
Typically, this means a smaller guest count (anywhere from just the two of you up to around 30 people), and a day that feels relaxed instead of packed.
It’s less about hosting a big event and more about actually being present in the moment.
Why Couples Are Choosing Intimate Weddings
Big weddings can come with a lot of pressure. A packed timeline, a long guest list, and the feeling that you have to make the day enjoyable for everyone else.
That’s where intimate weddings are different.
Couples are choosing a slower pace. More time together. Real moments they can actually remember.
Instead of rushing from one part of the day to the next, they’re able to take it all in. Whether that’s a quiet ceremony, exploring somewhere beautiful, or just taking a minute to breathe together after saying “I do.”
It’s Not About Running Away Anymore
There’s this old idea that eloping means running away.
But now, intimate weddings and elopements are about something completely different.
They’re about choosing a wedding day that actually feels like you.
Less pressure. Less opinions. Less stress.
And way more intention behind every part of the day.
Your Wedding Day Can Feel Different
Your wedding day doesn’t have to feel like a production.
It can feel slow. Relaxed. Like you’re just hanging out together… but married.
That’s the biggest shift I’m seeing—couples are starting to care more about the experience of the day, not just how it looks.
Like this Lake Tahoe elopement I photographed, where the whole day felt easy. They explored, took their time, had space to just be together, and nothing felt rushed. They stopped for ice cream. It honestly felt more like we were all just hanging out than following a timeline.
If you’re starting to realize a big wedding might not be it for you, you’re definitely not the only one.
If you’re dreaming of an intimate wedding or elopement in California, I’d love to help you create a day that actually feels like you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Intimate Weddings
How many guests are considered an intimate wedding?
An intimate wedding usually includes anywhere from just the couple up to around 30 guests. It’s less about the exact number and more about keeping the day intentional and focused on the people who matter most.
What’s the difference between an intimate wedding and an elopement?
An intimate wedding includes a small group of guests, while an elopement is typically just the couple (and sometimes an officiant or a few close people). Both focus on a more relaxed, meaningful experience—it just depends on how many people you want there.
Are intimate weddings more affordable than big weddings?
They can be, but it’s not always about spending less. A lot of couples choose an intimate wedding so they can spend their budget differently—on the experience, the location, photography, or things that actually matter to them instead of a large venue and guest list.
Where can you have an intimate wedding in California?
California has so many incredible options. Places like Lake Tahoe and Yosemite National Park are some of the most popular locations for an intimate wedding in California because of their scenery, but you can also choose the coast, the mountains, or even a quiet forest setting. It really comes down to the kind of experience you want.
Do you still need a timeline for an intimate wedding?
Yes—but it looks very different. Instead of a strict, packed schedule, an intimate wedding timeline is more flexible and relaxed. There’s room to slow down, explore, and actually enjoy the day without feeling rushed.
If you’re not sure where to start, I walk through this more in my how to elope in California guide, but the biggest difference is your timeline is built around the experience—not the other way around.
Can you include family in an intimate wedding?
Absolutely. A lot of couples include their immediate family or a small group of close friends. Intimate weddings are perfect if you want to celebrate with your people without the pressure of a large guest list.
Can you include your dog in an intimate wedding or elopement?
Yes—your dog can absolutely be part of your intimate wedding or elopement. Many couples include their dog in their ceremony, photos, or just have them there to be part of the experience.
For example, I photographed an elopement where their dog was right there during the ceremony and hung out with us the rest of the day, it honestly made everything feel even more relaxed and personal.
It’s important to check location rules ahead of time, since some places have restrictions, but there are plenty of dog-friendly options that still give you an incredible setting.
Are intimate weddings still formal?
They can be if you want them to be, but they don’t have to be. Some couples keep things more traditional, while others go for something more laid-back and adventurous. That’s the whole point—it’s flexible and can look however you want it to.
How do you plan an intimate wedding?
Start with your location and the kind of experience you want. From there, you can build a simple timeline, choose a few key details, and keep things focused on what matters most. If you’re not sure where to start, I go more in-depth in my how to elope in California guide, which walks through the entire process step by step.
Having someone guide you through the process (like a photographer who also helps with planning) makes it a lot easier.
I'm Kristin Smith
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California Elopement Photographer, Planner & Designer
Helping you create a laid-back, intentional elopement in epic locations, without the stress.
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