One of the biggest choices is whether to elope, have a wedding, or find something in between—like a micro-wedding. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there are real pros and cons to each option.
Whether you want to keep things simple or celebrate with everyone you love, I hope this guide helps you find the path that feels right.
What’s the Difference Between an Elopement, Micro-Wedding, and Traditional Wedding?
Elopement: A private ceremony with just you two (and maybe a witness or photographer). It’s intimate, personal, and often spontaneous.
Micro-Wedding: A smaller celebration—usually under 50 guests—that blends simplicity with some traditional elements like a dinner or first dance.
Traditional Wedding: A larger, full-scale event with a guest list, venue, vendors, and often a higher price tag. Think of the classic wedding experience.
Pros and Cons of Eloping
Why couples elope:
-
Less stress and fewer moving parts
-
Budget-friendly
-
Focus stays on the two of you
But some couples say they missed the opportunity to include loved ones or have special moments like walking down the aisle.
One couple shared online that they loved eloping because “it felt like the day was really ours—no performance, no pressure.” Another person reflected that they eloped but later wished they’d involved their families, even in a small way.
Pros and Cons of a Micro-Wedding
Why couples choose micro-weddings:
-
Intimate, but still celebratory
-
Budget-conscious compared to a large wedding
-
Less planning than a full event
A few couples on Reddit said their micro-wedding was “perfect”—they had 30 or 40 guests, kept the ceremony short, and spent real time with everyone there. They didn’t feel like they missed anything important.
Micro-weddings also open the door to special touches: a small floral arch, meaningful centerpieces, or personal vows in a beautiful outdoor spot.
Pros and Cons of a Traditional Wedding
Why couples plan a full wedding:
-
The full celebration, including all your people
-
Big moments like a first dance, speeches, and a reception
-
Shared memories with your whole community
But traditional weddings often come with a higher cost—and sometimes, more stress.
Some people say they wouldn’t change a thing. Others admit they felt overwhelmed by the pressure or wished they’d spent less and done something more personal.
One Reddit user said they spent over $30,000 and regretted not putting that money toward a home. Another said they loved every second because “it was the one time in our lives all our people were in the same place.”
Cost Comparison: Elopement vs Micro-Wedding vs Traditional Wedding
| Type of Celebration | Guest Count | Estimated Cost (CAD) | Planning Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elopement | 0–5 | $1,000 – $5,000 | Low |
| Micro-Wedding | 10–50 | $5,000 – $15,000 | Medium |
| Traditional Wedding | 50–200+ | $20,000 – $40,000+ | High |
Of course, costs vary based on choices—venue, food, travel, attire, and flowers all add up. But these numbers give a general sense of what to expect.
If you’re looking to keep things beautiful and affordable, I offer dried wedding flower packages that work well for elopements and micro-weddings. They're lightweight, lasting, and easy to ship anywhere in Canada.
Questions to Ask Before You Decide
Here are some questions that can help clarify your vision:
-
What kind of day do we actually want?
Quiet and personal? Big and joyful? -
Who do we want to be there with us?
Just us? Immediate family? Friends and extended family? -
What’s our budget—and what else might we want to save for?
A house, travel, starting a new chapter? -
Do we love tradition, or want to skip it?
Think about things like first dances, speeches, family photos. -
Are we okay with planning logistics and managing guests?
Or does that feel overwhelming? -
Would we consider eloping now and celebrating later?
Many couples choose to do a private ceremony followed by a casual reception months later.
Final Thoughts
I’ve seen all kinds of weddings—quiet backyard elopements, dreamy forest micro-weddings, and full-scale barn celebrations. And the truth is, the “right” choice isn’t about size or style. It’s about what feels true to you.
If you need flowers that are flexible, beautiful, and personal, I’d love to help. Whether you’re eloping in the woods or gathering close family at your favourite venue, dried wedding flowers can help tell your story—your way.