Kimberly Rolleri is the owner and operator of the Spanish R Rolleri Ranch, located in the Sierra foothills on the family-owned cattle ranch. With a private, intimate setting, the ranch provides a park-like atmosphere for that special day (or weekend). This hidden gem is a prime location for weddings large and small – and in the following article, Kimberly Rolleri discusses the rise of the small, or micro-weddings, why they have increased in popularity, making an intimate, secluded celebration the biggest trend of the year.
Everyone loves a good wedding, and statistic show that, in 2023 there will be an estimated
2.24 million weddings in the U.S. with an average cost of around $29,195. That’s 33.5% more than the average cost of a wedding in 2020.
Many aspects of American weddings come with hefty price tags. Inviting 200+ guests usually means spending around $90 a person on food alone. Venues can cost thousands of dollars — and that’s on the low end. Photography and video? At least $2,000.
With a post-pandemic wedding bump in celebrations tied to higher costs than ever before, it’s no wonder that many couples are opting to go a little more low-key, with more intimate wedding plans or a micro-wedding mindset.
Kimberly Rolleri says that it’s proof that big things can come in small packages.
Kimberly Rolleri Explains the Differences Between Micro and Intimate Celebrations
The terms may often be used interchangeably, but there are key differences between micro and intimate weddings.
Kimberly Rolleri says that usually, a micro wedding is characterized by a ceremony that’s non-traditional, at a smaller venue (such as a home, ranch, or outdoors) and comes with less than 50 guests (commonly it’s around 20-25 people). It’s designed to be a highly personal experience, one that saves couples both time and money and allows them to interact more with every guest.
An intimate wedding is more
traditional overall but with a few tweaks. Couples typically invite more guests compared to a micro wedding, typically up to 75-100 people. And those on the invite list are usually people who are extremely close to the couple. These events can still be held at larger facilities, but with a limited guest list.
Kimberly Rolleri notes that there can be a full celebration, such as a reception, but it will be held in an intentionally intimate environment.
The Spanish R Roller Ranch is known for its distinctive ceremony and reception spaces for any type of micro wedding or highly intimate party.
Micro Weddings on the Rise
While preference for large wedding extravaganzas fluctuates between generations, it was the COVID-19 pandemic and associated social distancing that fueled the popularity of the micro wedding.
Kimberly Rolleri of the Spanish R Rolleri Ranch says that couples have reaped the financial benefits of not being tied down to a big venue and the hefty price tag that comes along with it. This means shifting money to what means the most to the couple, often small details that make a wedding more distinctive and highly personal. This includes creative décor, cost-conscious foods, and making playlists instead of hiring a DJ or a band.
Top 3 Benefits of Smaller Celebrations
• Huge Savings
One of the most notable advantages of micro weddings is the potential for significant cost savings. With fewer guests to accommodate, couples can allocate their budget more efficiently, allowing for splurges on other aspects of the celebration, such as a stunning venue, gourmet catering, or personalized experiences.
This financial flexibility enables couples to create a truly memorable day without breaking the bank. A traditional wedding can go over $30,000. A micro wedding? Usually around $1,600 for elopements and about $10,000 for a small reception or ceremony. That’s a third of the cost of going traditional.
• More Location Choices
Furthermore, micro weddings open up a world of possibilities when it comes to choosing a location. Couples are no longer bound by the limitations of large venues and can explore unique and unconventional settings that may not have been feasible with a larger guest list. From picturesque gardens and private estates to beachfront retreats and charming rustic barns, the options are endless.
This flexibility in venue selection allows couples to curate an intimate and personalized experience that reflects their unique style and preferences reports Kimberly Rolleri of the Spanish R Rolleri Ranch. Micro weddings may seem to limit as far as venue choice, but in reality, it expands options. Eschewing a huge venue that’s a highly popular spot for ceremonies means a rampage of tiny or medium-sized spots can be considered.
• Memorable Experience for Guests
For both couples and their guests, micro weddings also offer the opportunity to create more meaningful and intimate experiences. With a smaller guest count, couples can spend quality time with each guest, fostering deeper connections and creating lasting memories. Guests, in turn, can fully immerse themselves in the celebration, feeling more connected to the couple and their special day. The intimate atmosphere promotes a sense of camaraderie and closeness, making the wedding an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.
Additionally, micro weddings often allow couples to focus on the finer details and personal touches. With a smaller scale event, couples can dedicate more attention to intricate decorations, customized favors, and personalized elements that add a touch of elegance and uniqueness to the celebration. These thoughtful details contribute to a more intimate and memorable experience for everyone involved.
Kimberly Rolleri of the Spanish R Rolleri Ranch says that this may include handwritten notes to open at the ceremony or food tailored to each guest’s preference. How’s that for memorable?
Conclusion
Micro weddings offer a range of benefits that make them an appealing choice for couples and guests alike. The potential for cost savings, the freedom to choose unique locations, and the opportunity for intimate experiences all contribute to creating a truly special and unforgettable wedding day. Whether it's a serene outdoor ceremony or an intimate gathering in a cozy venue, micro weddings provide an intimate and personalized celebration that will be cherished by all who attend.
