16 Ways to Create an Intimate Feel at a Big Wedding

DO YOU WANT AN INTIMATE WEDDING, but find yourself facing an extensive guest list? Although a small wedding naturally feels more intimate than a big one, there’s no reason you can’t have a big wedding with an intimate feel. Consider these ways to turn your big wedding into a private affair.

1. HOST A PRE-PARTY

Don’t wait until the wedding day to start mingling with your guests. Hosting smaller events before the big day gives you more time with groups of guests in intimate settings.

2. MAKE IT A WEEKEND AFFAIR

Why limit your wedding to just one day? Try making it a weekend affair to create more opportunities to visit with guests. That not only gives you more time to connect with wedding guests but also lets them mingle with each other and explore the area.

3. FIND A COZY VENUE

Just because you need a large venue doesn’t mean you have to choose a space that feels cavernous. Look for places that can seat a big group, but still provide a warm, cozy atmosphere that’s elegant and romantic.

4. USE LIGHTING TO YOUR ADVANTAGE

The right lighting sets the mood of a space. Soft, romantic lighting in warm hues helps create a welcoming and intimate atmosphere. Avoid bright or harsh lights, and consider adding candles for an instant touch of romance.

5. SELECT THE TABLES

Long tables instead of round ones make the meal feel more like a dinner party with family and friends. Choose smaller tables when possible. About six guests per table is a suitable number for effecting intimacy.

6. CHOOSE LOW CENTERPIECES

Tall centerpieces are lovely, but low ones provide a more intimate feel. They also allow guests to see each other and share a conversation around the table. One exception is if your venue has high ceilings. In that case, it’s often better to choose tall centerpieces to help fill the space and reduce the feeling of getting lost in a large room.

7. PERSONALIZE THE DÉCOR

Add personal touches to the décor to give the

wedding an intimate feel. The more you can personalize the space, the more it feels like a private celebration with family and friends.

8. MINGLE AT THE MEAL

Use food to encourage guests to visit. Serving the meal at food stations give guests an opportunity to move around the room and chat while they pile their plates. Family-style service is another useful way to encourage conversations, as it gets everyone sitting and eating at once and sharing the meal as a family.

9. SHARE YOUR STORY

Set up displays and signs that share the story of your relationship. Such details make the day more intimate for guests, plus it’s fun for you and your fiancé to reminisce during wedding planning.

10. GREET THE GUESTS

Personally greeting and thanking each guest is essential no matter what the size of the wedding, but mainly for more sizable events. Set up a receiving line or spend a few minutes at each table to enjoy mingling with your loved ones and make each guest feel included. Making eye contact while talking

with your guests also adds to a welcoming, familial atmosphere.

11. GO FOR WARM TONES

Deep, warm tones contribute to an ambiance of closeness. Maroon, gold, chocolate brown, and cream are excellent choices. Lighter tones that can achieve a similar effect include peach, blush, and coral.

12. INVITE SONG REQUESTS

Asking wedding guests to include a song request on their RSVP card is a fun way to get them involved before the wedding day. Not only will they enjoy hearing their song at the reception, but they’ll also feel compelled to get out on the dance floor.

13. BE PART OF THE COCKTAIL HOUR

Use the cocktail hour as an additional time to mingle with wedding guests. This casual setting gives everyone a chance to interact, which sets the mood for the rest of the reception.

14. SET ASIDE SPACE

Designate a space away from the central reception area to allow guests to gather and

visit in smaller groups. A lounge or small side room are great options, but you can also return to the cocktail area for socializing at a quieter, more relaxed pace.

15. KEEP SPEECHES SHORT

It’s easy to lose the attention of a large crowd, so go for a high-impact speech that’s short and sweet to keep guests hanging on every word. That’s good advice at any wedding, especially a big one.

16. GIVE AWAY HOMEMADE FAVORS

Homemade favors give your guests something to take home after the wedding and remember the day while feeling special and appreciated. There are many fun DIY favor options, but if that doesn’t suit your style, you can personalize your favors in other ways to create a similar intimate feel.

Your wedding day is a unique time for you and your partner to celebrate your love and commitment to each other while in the company of friends and family. Create the vibe you want no matter what the size of your guest list. With these ideas, even a big wedding can have an intimate feel.