Blane Ellsworth May 19, 2025
When Hannah and Liam got engaged, they knew they didn’t want to wait a year to get married. With a tight work schedule and a baby on the way, they had just 11 weeks to pull everything together. What unfolded was a beautiful, 28-person backyard ceremony with candlelit vows, a jazz duo, and dinner under the stars. It was warm, elegant, and stress-free—not because it was rushed, but because it was focused.
If you're wondering how to plan a wedding quickly without cutting corners or joy, this guide is for you.
1. Choose a date (and 1 backup)
Look 8–12 weeks ahead. Be flexible on weekdays or Sundays, which are often more available and affordable.
2. Create a guest list
Keep it simple. 10–50 people is ideal. Use a shared spreadsheet to track contact info, RSVPs, and dietary needs.
3. Decide your priorities
Pick your “big three”—for some, it's food, photos, and location. For others, it’s florals, music, and outfits. Know what matters most.
Start calling small venues right away—vineyards, gardens, boutique inns, even family properties. Look for:
Packages tailored for micro-weddings
All-inclusive or easy-to-coordinate spaces
A built-in Plan B for weather
Be prepared to tour and book quickly.
You only need a few:
Officiant (book first)
Photographer
Caterer or private chef
Florist (small wedding = small order)
Ask if they’ve worked short timelines before. Many will accommodate micro-weddings even during busy seasons.
1. Write your ceremony or vows
Customize your script with meaningful touches. Keep it personal, brief, and heartfelt.
2. Decide decor vibe
Minimal flowers, string lights, and candles go a long way. Rent rather than DIY if time is tight.
3. Order attire
Consider off-the-rack bridal stores or online retailers with fast shipping. Tailoring should happen within the next 2 weeks.
Send digital invitations with RSVP links.
Create a mini website or email guide for guests with parking info, dress code, and timing.
Order a small cake or dessert bar from a local bakery.
Confirm guest list and vendor arrival times.
Create a simple timeline for the day.
Delegate tasks like setup, clean-up, or playlist management to friends or a coordinator.
The week before, confirm everything. Keep your focus on connection, not perfection.
Hannah and Liam said what made their quick wedding feel so special was that every detail came from love, not pressure. “When you plan fast, you don’t overthink. You just choose what feels right,” Hannah shared.
A small wedding planned in three months can be just as meaningful—if not more—than a grand event that takes a year. In fact, the short timeline helps you skip the fluff and focus on what really matters.
Trust your instincts. Surround yourself with people who support your vision. And remember: it’s not about how long you plan—it’s about how deeply you love.
Ready to find your venue? Explore handpicked small wedding locations now on SmallWeddings.com.
