"I do" with just a few. Micro weddings grow in popularity

When my wife and I got married in 2021, we had an intimate, standing-only ceremony at a North Miami-Dade park we got to use for free.

• Four years later, we're planning a more formal wedding celebration in Spain, though we're keeping the guest list lean and trying to stay within budget.

Why it matters: Some couples are skipping big weddings to save money and throw a more intimate gathering.

• The average guest count nationwide was 131 in 2024, down from 184 in 2006, according to data shared with Axios by The Wedding Report.
• And smaller celebrations, those with 50 guests or fewer, made up 18% of nuptials last year, compared to 10% in 2013, per the research company.

What we're hearing: Courthouse ceremonies and parties in cozy restaurants or backyards let couples spend more time with loved ones.

• Downsizing can also limit stress, plus free up cash for that open bar or slick DJ.

Between the lines: While certain people "just like low-key events," many go smaller to spend less, Shane McMurray, CEO of The Wedding Report, told Axios.

• Cutting the guest list is the best way to save, with prices for meals, venues, invitations and more usually based on headcount.
• Pros estimate micro weddings can cost over 50% less than traditional ones.

Axios' Sami Sparber contributed reporting