How to Plan a Small Wedding in Rochester, NY
Dreaming of an intimate celebration surrounded by your closest friends and family? Small weddings—especially here in Rochester—offer the perfect blend of charm, connection, and personal touches. Whether you’re planning a micro wedding for the first time or looking to scale back for a more meaningful experience, here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a memorable celebration without the overwhelm.
1. Set Your Guest List (and Stick to It)
Start by deciding what “small” means to you. For most couples, that’s 20 guests or fewer. Think about who you truly want by your side and remember—smaller guest lists mean you can spend more quality time with each person.
Pro tip: Don’t feel guilty about keeping it cozy. Most guests appreciate a more relaxed, personal gathering!
2. Find the Perfect Venue
Rochester offers unique venues that are perfect for small weddings—think cozy inns, charming estates, and boutique spaces. Look for venues that specialize in micro weddings, as they’ll have packages and experience tailored to your needs.
What to look for:
All-inclusive packages (so you can relax and enjoy!)
Overnight accommodations for your core group
Indoor and outdoor ceremony options
Flexible vendor policies
3. Personalize Your Experience
With fewer guests, your budget stretches further. Splurge on details that matter to you—custom florals, a private chef dinner, or a photographer who’ll capture every moment. Small weddings are all about thoughtful touches and meaningful surprises.
Ideas:
Locally sourced guest gifts (think candles, hand lotion, or sweet treats)
Custom playlists or live acoustic music
Handwritten notes for each guest
4. Streamline Your Planning
Planning a small wedding is all about simplicity. Choose a venue that handles the details—timeline, setup, vendor coordination—so you can focus on what matters most: celebrating your love.
Ask your venue:
Do you provide an officiant and photographer?
Can you help with floral arrangements?
Is event management included?
5. Embrace Rochester’s Local Flavor
Highlight the best of Rochester by incorporating local food, flowers, and even music into your celebration. Partner with local chefs, florists, and musicians for a truly unique experience your guests will remember.
6. Focus on Guest Experience
Small weddings mean every guest is a VIP. Welcome them with thoughtful amenities, comfy accommodations, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. At Springdale Weddings and Events, we love surprising guests with locally sourced gifts and cozy touches that make everyone feel at home.
7. Enjoy the Moment
With the logistics streamlined and your favorite people by your side, your only job is to soak up every moment. Intimate weddings are less about the “show” and more about the connection—so relax, celebrate, and savor this special day.
Thinking about planning your own small wedding in Rochester?
We’d love to help you create a day that’s personal, memorable, and stress-free. Contact us to learn more about our all-inclusive micro wedding packages and start planning your celebration today!
