Big Wedding vs Small Elopement Discover Which Wedding Style Fits Your Budget
- Countryside
- Jul 6
- 3 min read
Planning a wedding in Iowa means making choices that reflect your personality, values, and financial situation. One of the biggest decisions couples face is whether to host a big wedding or opt for a small elopement. Both options offer unique experiences, but they come with different costs and benefits. This post will help you understand which wedding style suits your budget and preferences, so you can plan a day that feels right for you.
Understanding the Big Wedding Experience
Big weddings often involve inviting dozens or even hundreds of guests. They usually include a formal ceremony, a reception with food and drinks, entertainment, and sometimes elaborate decorations. Many couples dream of this traditional celebration because it allows them to share their joy with family and friends.
Costs to Consider for a Big Wedding
Big weddings can be expensive. Here are some common costs:
Wedding venue rental: Popular venues in Iowa, such as barns, country clubs, or banquet halls, can cost several thousand dollars.
Catering: Feeding 100 or more guests adds up quickly. Expect to pay $30 to $100 per person depending on the menu.
Photography and videography: Hiring professionals to capture the day can range from $1,500 to $4,000.
Decorations and flowers: These can cost from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on your style.
Entertainment: DJs or live bands typically charge between $500 and $3,000.
Attire: Wedding dresses and suits can add up, especially with alterations and accessories.
Additional expenses: Invitations, transportation, wedding favors, and officiant fees also add to the total.
Benefits of a Big Wedding
Celebration with loved ones: You get to share your special day with many people who matter to you.
More traditions: Big weddings often include rituals like first dances, cake cutting, and speeches.
Memorable atmosphere: The energy and excitement of a large crowd can make the day feel grand and festive.
Challenges of a Big Wedding
Higher stress: Coordinating many guests and vendors can be overwhelming.
Budget pressure: Costs can quickly spiral beyond your initial plan.
Less intimacy: With many guests, it can be hard to spend quality time with everyone.
What a Small Elopement Looks Like
Elopements are intimate weddings with just the couple or a few close people. They often take place in unique or scenic locations, such as Iowa’s state parks, small chapels, or even a backyard.
Costs to Consider for a Small Elopement
Elopements tend to be more budget-friendly. Typical costs include:
Location fees: Some parks or venues charge a small fee for ceremonies.
Officiant: Hiring someone to legally marry you usually costs a few hundred dollars.
Photography: Many couples still want professional photos, which can be scaled down to a few hours or a mini-session.
Attire: You can choose simpler or secondhand outfits to save money.
Minimal decorations: Often nature provides the perfect backdrop, reducing the need for extras.
Benefits of a Small Elopement
Lower costs: You can save thousands of dollars compared to a big wedding.
Less stress: Fewer guests and simpler logistics make planning easier.
More focus on the couple: The day centers on your relationship without distractions.
Flexibility: You can choose unconventional locations and times.
Challenges of a Small Elopement
Limited guest list: Some family or friends may feel left out.
Fewer traditions: You might miss some classic wedding moments.
Less formal: If you want a big party vibe, elopements may feel too low-key.
Matching Your Wedding Style to Your Budget
Choosing between a big wedding and a small elopement depends on your financial situation and what matters most to you.
Questions to Ask Yourself
How many people do you want to celebrate with?
What is your total wedding budget?
Which parts of the wedding day are most important to you?
Are you comfortable with a more casual or formal event?
How much time and energy do you want to spend planning?
Budget Examples
Big wedding budget: $20,000 to $40,000
This covers a venue for 100+ guests, catering, entertainment, and professional photography.
Small elopement budget: $2,000 to $7,000
This includes a small venue or outdoor location, officiant, photography, and simple attire.
Tips for Staying on Budget
Prioritize your must-haves and be willing to compromise on extras.
Consider off-season or weekday dates for better venue rates.
DIY some decorations or invitations.
Limit the guest list to close family and friends.
Look for local vendors with good reviews and reasonable prices.
Thank you!
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