Hi everyone, how are you? I loved your feedback on the previous post about weddings in historic cities. And taking advantage of your comments, I’ve prepared new content. If there’s one thing I’ve heard frequently from couples who contact me, it’s: “We want something intimate, but unforgettable.” And this phrase perfectly captures the essence of a trend that’s here to stay: the mini destination wedding . We’re not talking about a small wedding by limitation, but by choice. These are celebrations with fewer guests, but greater in meaning, care, and personalization. And, believe me, the emotional impact—for both the bride and groom and their guests—is immense. But after all, why are so many couples opting for this format? Today I’ll share the main reasons (based on many conversations, trips, and experiences with my couples) and show you why a mini destination wedding might be exactly what you’re looking for.
Fewer guests, more wedding experiences
By reducing the guest list, the bride and groom can invest more per person, offering unique and detailed experiences—from a very special welcome dinner to personalized in-room treats or an exclusive program with close friends and family.
And this doesn’t mean losing out on emotion—quite the opposite. With fewer people, every glance, every toast, and every gesture of affection is felt more intensely. The bride and groom can truly be present, without rushing from table to table, and enjoy every moment with those who truly matter.
More freedom and authenticity in destination weddings
Another factor that attracts couples to a mini destination wedding is the freedom to create something truly personalized and outside the box. Because the event is smaller, everything can be more fluid and creative—the ceremony location, the time, the style of the dinner, the soundtrack…
I’ve attended weddings with unpretentious brunches, lunches at wineries, picnics in historic gardens, and parties under the stars. This format allows the celebration to be tailored to the couple’s personality, without the obligation to please hundreds of guests.
Lugares que viram extensão do sonho
The destination also changes its role: it stops being just the “setting” and becomes an active part of the experience. Many couples choose to get married in a place that’s special to them—like the city that marked their proposal trip, a country they’ve always dreamed of visiting, or even a charming village they discovered together.
And because the group is smaller, it’s easier to secure exclusive locations, such as historic homes, villas, small boutique hotels, or castles. This creates an intimate atmosphere that transforms the wedding into an entire weekend of connection and celebration.
Quality over quantity
The mini destination wedding also reflects a shift in mindset. Today’s couples are much more interested in celebrating with purpose and quality than simply following protocols. They prefer a party that represents who they are, even if smaller, rather than a grandiose event lacking in identity.
It’s a format that emphasizes the essentials without sacrificing charm. On the contrary: it’s precisely because there are fewer guests that everything can be even more special—from the menu to the decor, from the lodging to the moment of the “I do.”
What to consider when choosing this wedding format?
If you’re wondering if a mini destination wedding is for you, here are some questions I often ask couples:
Do you prefer quality time with each guest over a large party?
Would you like to create a multi-day experience with your friends and family?
Do you feel like getting married in a unique location, even if it’s out of town (or out of the country)?
Are you willing to invest more per person, but for something unique and memorable?
If the answer is yes to most of them, this format may be exactly what you’re looking for.
Ultimately, mini destination weddings aren’t “less weddings”—they’re, in fact, intense, emotional, and deeply memorable celebrations. They create lasting memories, not only for the bride and groom, but for every guest who experienced that unique moment with them. If you dream of a wedding full of meaning, beauty, charm, and authenticity, this might be the perfect choice. And if you’d like help finding the ideal destination, discussing possibilities, and dreaming together, you know what? I’m here!
See you next week!
Kisses,
Simone.
