Chelsea and Josh’s decision to have an intimate wedding was primarily based on cost; smaller guest list = less money.
More importantly, however, opting for an intimate wedding allowed for meaningful interaction between the couple and each and every guest, rather than the rushed “Hi! Goodbye!” greeting at larger weddings.
“We were able to spend time and talk with all of the guests at the wedding!” says Chelsea, adding that they couldn’t be happier with their decision to go small.
Kudos to Carrie Cantrell from Eventide Photography for capturing this li’l rustic wedding so beautifully!
Chelsea, 26 & Josh, 30
Location: Atwood, TN
Wedding Date: October 17, 2018
Number of Guests: 60
Wedding Cost: $8,000
Wedding Ceremony Location: K&M Barn at Lewis Farm in Atwood, TN
Wedding Reception Location: same as the wedding ceremony
Why did you have an intimate wedding?
We had an intimate wedding due to the cost and we wanted a smaller wedding! We wanted our close friends and family there. The groom and I paid for our honeymoon so we wanted to be able to go on a fun, long honeymoon since we both had never been out of the country. Our honeymoon was in Cozumel, Mexico.
What are some the challenges that you faced planning an intimate wedding?
One was that I did not have a wedding coordinator! My mom and I did everything ourselves. Also I wanted to get married this year, so therefore some of the options were limited! There were a few more guests we would have had but they understood the circumstance.
Was it difficult to pare down the guest list?
Somewhat.
Did you have any ‘issues’ with the small guest list from friends and family? If so, how did you address them?
No, we did not.
What were the highlights of the ceremony?
The highlights had to be the walk down the aisle with my stepfather as I watched Josh standing at the end of the aisle. Everyone was able to hear all that we said since it was so intimate. The ceremony was short and sweet ?
What were the highlights of the reception?
Josh dancing to Michael Jackson! He has moves and everyone loves watching him.
What was the best thing about having an intimate wedding?
We were able to spend time and talk with all of the guests at the wedding! The cost was MUCH less having an intimate wedding! We had more time getting to spend with each other and our guests since we did not have to constantly scramble to talk to people.
What advice do you have for couples who are considering an intimate wedding?
I would say it is a great idea!! I could not imagine having to plan a bigger wedding than I did. It was the perfect night and day. I had more money to spend on details such as food, decorations, and florals since we did not have to accommodate so many people!
Vendors:
Location: K&M Barn at Lewis Farm in Atwood, TN
Photographer: Carrie Cantrell from Eventide Photography
Caterer: Tammy Legions
Florals: J. Kent Freeman Floral Design
DJ: DJ Larry
Decorations: M&M Event Rentals and Vows Wedding and Events
Rings: Lottie’s Jewelers
Dress and Tuxes: My Best Friend Jenna
Hairstylist: Kelley McCullar
Makeup: Courtney Helton Parker
