As we began to emerge from the chaos of the pandemic, many hoped for a return to normalcy. With the rollout of vaccines and the arrival of warmer weather, COVID-19 cases started to decline, leading to the easing of mask mandates and indoor gathering restrictions. For many, this signaled the return of wedding season, with postponed celebrations finally able to take place once again.
However, the rise of the Delta variant brought fresh concerns, prompting some couples to reevaluate their wedding plans. Enter the mini-mony.
We spoke with Lisa Green, the owner of Dreamy Destinations Weddings, known for crafting stunning ceremonies in beautiful outdoor settings. She highlighted the growing popularity of mini-monies—also referred to as micro-weddings or elopements. While this concept isn’t entirely new, the pandemic has certainly propelled it into the spotlight.
Understanding Mini-Monies
Mini-monies typically involve fewer than fifty guests and retain all the luxurious details that couples desire. “You can still wear that gorgeous dress, hire a photographer for the day, and include special touches,” Green explains, emphasizing that a smaller guest list doesn’t mean sacrificing elegance.
The pandemic has shifted many couples’ priorities, leading them to favor intimate ceremonies in scenic locations. “Given the current climate, couples are opting for simplicity and beautiful outdoor settings to exchange vows,” she adds.
Adapting Wedding Plans
With the unpredictability of COVID-19, couples have learned to be more flexible with their wedding plans. Initially, many were frustrated when forced to postpone, but now there’s a notable shift toward acceptance and resilience. Couples are encouraged to reflect on what truly matters to them. For those who dream of a large wedding, Green suggests, “Don’t rush into a mini-mony just for the sake of it. If you envision a big celebration, hold onto that dream.”
For couples eager to start their married life sooner, a mini-mony can serve as a beautiful compromise. “You can always have a small ceremony now and plan a grand reception later,” she advises. In fact, many of her clients have already tied the knot and are simply celebrating with a larger gathering afterward.
Tips for an Outdoor Wedding
If you’re considering an outdoor wedding, here are some tips from Green:
- Aim for mild weather—spring or early autumn are generally ideal.
- Choose your dream venue, be it a beach, farm, mountain, or lake. Her company specializes in securing necessary permits for picturesque locations like stunning cliffs.
- Maintain traditions if you wish—everything from dress reveals to music and toasts can still be part of your day.
- Take pride in hosting an eco-friendly celebration.
- Capture as many memories as you want with photos and videos.
- Prioritize safety by minimizing guest numbers to reduce the risk of COVID spread.
Dr. Sarah James, a specialist in infectious diseases, also offers practical safety tips: use digital communication for any changes in guidelines, be clear about your expectations regarding safety measures, and ensure guests have adequate space for social distancing, even outdoors.
While the pandemic pushed mini-monies into the limelight, they shouldn’t be viewed as a second-rate option. Many couples have found that scaling down their wedding resulted in a more fulfilling experience—often more beautiful and less stressful than they had envisioned. “People often assume a smaller wedding will lack excitement, but the reality is quite the opposite,” Green shares.
For more insights on planning your perfect celebration, check out some of our other resources like this one on home insemination methods and tips, or explore fertility boosters for men to enhance your journey to parenthood.
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In summary, mini-monies are not just a pandemic trend but a refreshing approach to weddings that emphasizes intimacy and personal meaning. Couples are embracing the opportunity to create memorable celebrations that reflect their unique love stories while prioritizing safety and simplicity.
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