Tips for Having a Micro Wedding in the DMV

The Goat Audio
May 8
3 min read

Micro weddings are redefining the wedding experience—intimate, personalized, and often more budget-friendly. If you’re planning one in the DMV area (Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia), you have access to stunning venues, top-tier vendors, and endless creative possibilities. Whether you're envisioning a small garden gathering or an elegant dinner affair, these tips will help you plan a memorable and meaningful micro wedding.

1. Keep the Guest List Intimate

One of the biggest advantages of a micro wedding is the ability to celebrate with only your closest loved ones. But trimming the guest list can be tricky. Here’s how to do it thoughtfully:

Immediate Family Only: Stick to parents, siblings, and grandparents to keep it intimate.
Adults-Only: Limiting children can help control the size of your guest list.
Selective Plus-Ones: Only invite plus-ones for guests in long-term relationships.

A smaller guest list allows for a more personal experience and can significantly reduce costs on catering, seating, and rentals.

2. Choose the Perfect Venue

The DMV area offers diverse venue options that cater to micro weddings. Consider these unique settings:

Historic Charm: Dumbarton House in Georgetown features picturesque gardens and elegant interiors.
Hidden Outdoor Gems: Crispus Attucks Park in D.C. is a serene, community-maintained space for a cozy outdoor celebration.
Modern & Chic: Station 4 in Southwest D.C. provides contemporary ambiance with flexible event spaces.

When choosing a venue, factor in guest capacity, amenities, and how the setting aligns with your vision.

3. Set a Smart Budget

Micro weddings allow you to allocate your budget toward elements that matter most. Here’s a general breakdown of costs:

Budget Micro Wedding: $1500-1700
Mid-Level Micro Wedding: $1800-2000
Luxury Micro Wedding: $2000+

These costs typically include venue, catering, photography, attire, and décor. With a smaller guest count, you can invest more in details like florals, entertainment, or a custom menu.

4. Add Personal Touches

With fewer guests, you can infuse more personality into your wedding. Consider these creative ideas:

Customized Décor: One couple drew inspiration from Dior dinnerware, using a cream and green color palette reminiscent of an 18th-century French garden.
Meaningful Locations: If you and your partner have a special place (like Union Station for a couple who endured a long-distance relationship), consider tying the knot there.
Cultural Traditions: Incorporate elements of your heritage, from special music to traditional cuisine.

Personalizing your wedding makes it even more memorable for you and your guests.

5. Work with Experienced Vendors

Since micro weddings focus on quality over quantity, working with skilled vendors is essential. Here’s who to prioritize:

Photographers: Look for professionals who excel in capturing intimate moments.
Caterers: Opt for a personalized menu featuring seasonal or local ingredients.
Planners: A wedding planner familiar with micro weddings in the DMV can help bring your vision to life.

Choosing vendors who specialize in smaller weddings ensures a seamless and well-curated event.

6. Stay Flexible

One of the best things about a micro wedding? Flexibility! Here are some ways to embrace it:

Shorter Planning Timelines: Smaller weddings often require less time to plan, reducing stress.
Non-Traditional Venues: Consider hosting your wedding at a beloved restaurant, a family home, or a scenic park.
Weekday or Off-Peak Weddings: Venues and vendors may offer better rates for weekday or off-season weddings.

Flexibility lets you create a wedding that truly reflects your style without the constraints of a large-scale event.

Final Thoughts

Planning a micro wedding in the DMV is an opportunity to craft an intimate and unforgettable celebration. By focusing on a curated guest list, selecting a meaningful venue, and personalizing every detail, you can create a day that truly represents your love story.

Thinking about planning your dream micro wedding? Start by exploring unique venues and reaching out to trusted vendors who specialize in small celebrations!