Micro Wedding vs. Elopement: Bali Destination Wedding Guide

Did you know that the best part about getting married in the 21st century is that there is no wrong way of getting married? Weddings have grown and evolved over the past few decades, and now there is no such thing as just a wedding. Couples now are choosing between destination weddings, elopements, micro weddings, intimate weddings, and weddings, choosing one that feels right for them and their partner.

But with so many choices out there, it may often get confusing for couples, who are often unsure of what different types of weddings have to offer.

If you cannot decide between a micro wedding vs. elopement for your special day, this guide is for you. We are going to discuss both styles and the differences between them. We will also explore how they fit into a Bali destination wedding and help you decide which one suits your vision, budget, and vibe.

Quick Summary

• Traditionally, an elopement is when a couple has a secret wedding ceremony, usually at a destination. Nowadays, this ceremony is often held without the knowledge of family or friends. It is a more intimate, adventurous, and personal way to get married, usually with just the couple or a very small group (between 5-10 people).
• Micro weddings are much like traditional weddings; the only difference is that they are rather small-scale weddings with as many as 15 – 50 guests.
• Elopements don’t follow a structure; they are more free and spontaneous. You could get married on a cliffside at sunrise and then head off for a hike. On the other hand, micro weddings follow a structure like that of a traditional wedding, i.e., ceremony, reception, and sometimes even a small after-party.

What is an Elopement?

So, what is considered an elopement? Traditionally, an elopement is when a couple has a secret wedding ceremony, usually at a destination. This ceremony was often held without the knowledge of family or friends.

These days, however, the term has evolved. So, what is an elopement now? It is a more intimate, adventurous, and personal way to get married, usually with just the couple or a very small group (between 5-10 people). Elopements are much more flexible, often held in scenic, non-traditional venues like beaches, mountain tops, waterfalls, cliffsides, or even in the heart of Bali’s lush jungles.

There are no strict rules—an elopement can be as spontaneous or as planned as you want it to be. Often, after the ceremony, the couple and a few guests explore a destination or do a unique activity, which is usually not the case in traditional weddings, and hence elopements offer some unique experiences.

What is a Micro Wedding?

Now you must be wondering what a mico wedding means. Micro weddings are much like traditional weddings; the only difference is that they are essentially small-scale traditional weddings with as many as 15 – 50 guests. It includes all the essential elements of a standard wedding—ceremony, reception, and often a formal dinner—but on a much smaller, more intimate scale.

Couples opting for micro weddings can still have the option to go all out on decor, catering, and venues; however, they don’t have to worry about coordinating with a large number of people.

In short, a micro wedding combines all of the main features of a traditional wedding with the intimacy and simplicity of an elopement.

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Micro Wedding vs. Elopement: The Key Differences

When it comes to a micro wedding vs. elopement, the main difference lies in the guest count and the structure of the day.

• Guest Count

Elopement is a more intimate affair; if you are going to have an elopement, you can either decide to have NO guests or have 5 – 10 guests. Micro weddings, on the other hand, can have anywhere from 15 – 50 guests.

• Structure of the Day

Elopements don’t have a set structure; they are more free-form and can be spontaneous. You could get married on a cliffside at sunrise and then head off for a hike. On the other hand, micro weddings are structured like traditional weddings, with a scheduled ceremony, reception, and sometimes even a meal or small party.

• Activities

If you are opting for an elopement, you have the freedom to do whatever you want or love, whether that’s skydiving, kayaking, or having a quiet dinner at a romantic location. But micro weddings are more about hosting, which can include a sit-down meal, dancing, and other traditional wedding activities.

Keeping these differences in mind is necessary when choosing between a micro wedding vs. elopement because it would determine what your day would look like.

Where Can You Have Your Elopement?

Anywhere! The best thing about elopements is that since you are with such a small group, and since you don’t have to follow traditional wedding events, you don’t have to worry about the venue. You can get married anywhere you want. If you are dreaming of getting married in Bali, some of the best locations for an elopement include secluded beaches, clifftops, waterfalls, and rice terraces.

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Where Can You Have Your Micro Wedding?

Although micro weddings are much like traditional weddings, you do not need bigger venues because of the lower number of guests. Explore your options, and choose venues that can accommodate up to 50 people. Unlike elopements, you cannot have micro weddings almost anywhere since the ceremony is followed by a reception and the after party.

Why Choose Bali for Your Micro Wedding or Elopement

Bali is known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and stunning backdrops, all of which make it a perfect destination for small weddings. Here’s why:

• Bali is Stunningly Beautiful

Bali, with its stunning and breathtaking landscapes, can make your wedding backdrop look straight out of a fairy tale.

• Choose From a Number of Wedding Venues

Whether it’s a cliffside resort, a secluded beach, or a cozy jungle retreat, there are manyBali wedding venues that are just perfect for smaller, more intimate ceremonies.

• The Best Wedding Planners

With a Bali wedding planner, you can relax and enjoy your day without the stress of planning everything yourself. These experts know how to handle everything, from small, intimate ceremonies to big, festive celebrations, making sure your wedding is just how you imagined it to be.

• Bali is Affordable

Compared to many other exotic locations, a wedding in Bali can be much more affordable. This means you can spend money on other important details like a honeymoon, gourmet food, or unique local experiences.

Top Bali Wedding Venues for Micro Weddings and Elopements

When you are planning a wedding in Bali, choosing the right spot can make all the difference. Here are some of the top picks for both micro weddings and elopements:

• Uluwatu Cliffside Resorts

Uluwatu Cliffside Resorts is famous for its stunning ocean views. It is perfect for sunset elopements or small weddings overlooking the ocean.

• Private Villas

The private villas in Seminyak are great for micro weddings; these villas are luxurious and comfortable and have enough space to host your closest family and friends.

• Boutique Resorts in Canggu & Nusa Dua

Canggu and Nusa Dua’s boutique resorts are stylish and have a laid-back beach vibe, which is great for a laid-back micro wedding.

Planning Your Bali Destination Wedding

Planning a wedding in Bali can seem challenging, but here is how you can do it:

• Hire a Bali Wedding Planner

A Bali wedding planner will help you with everything from sourcing local vendors to managing on-the-ground coordination.

• Visit the Venue in Advance

If possible, visit the venue and meet the planners in advance to get a real feel for the location.

• Keep the Guest List Small

One of the perks of a micro wedding or elopement is that you don’t need to invite everyone. Just focus on the closest friends and family who matter most.

Micro Wedding vs. Elopement: Which One is Right for You?

Still deciding between a micro wedding vs. elopement? Here are a few considerations that will help you figure out which one suits you best:

• How Many Guests Do You Want?

If you just want the two of you and a handful of people on your big day, an elopement might be the best choice for you. But if you can’t imagine your wedding without a small group of family and friends, go for a micro wedding.

• Do You Prefer a Structured Day or a Spontaneous Adventure?

Elopements are more free-form and can involve unique, non-traditional activities. Micro weddings are more structured but still intimate.

• What’s Your Budget?

Smaller guest lists mean fewer costs, so both options can save you money. However, the more structured nature of a micro wedding means you’d need to spend extra on planning costs.

Plan Your Dream Wedding in Bali

Whether you are looking for a spontaneous and adventurous elopement or an intimate micro wedding, Bali gives you endless possibilities and makes your big day unforgettable. No matter what you choose, the key is to pick what feels authentic to you and your relationship.

Contact Your Bali Wedding today to begin planning your beautiful destination wedding in Bali and create memories that will last a lifetime!

FAQs

Q: Are micro weddings the same as elopement?

A: No, micro weddings are not the same as elopement. Elopement is more spontaneous and free-spirited, so you can enjoy fun activities you like; you can only have a handful of guests at the elopement, i.e., between 5 – 10. On the other hand, micro weddings are much more like traditional weddings but with a smaller guest list, i.e., 15 – 50.

Q: Can I have a formal reception with a micro wedding? 

A: Yes, a micro wedding in Bali can include a reception, complete with dining, music, and even dancing, but on a smaller scale.