Whether it be due to current restrictions, or deciding to forgo the big reception, “minimonies” are becoming a reality for many couples this year.
“What is a minimony?” you may ask… A minimony is a tiny-sized (mini) ceremony, to share the commitment of marriage with your closest loved ones. This definition is new to the wedding industry with an increasing number of couples choosing to move forward with part of their wedding celebrations and postponing their larger or “sequel” wedding to a later date.
We are so glad to have local wedding planner, Moments by Madeleine joining us on the blog to share 5 helpful tips for planning your minimony, along with inspiration from a beautiful minimony she planned earlier this year at Fairmont Lake Louise.
one
Establish Your Intimate Guest List
Who are your ultimate “must have there” people? Whether it is 2-8 of your closest friends or family, make sure you feel excited and confident in moving forward with a tiny ceremony with those people by your side! Remember your officiant counts in your 10 person guest count so if you are tight on numbers ask a friend or family member to get their temporary marriage commissioner application in!
two
Go Big & Get Creative!
We are talking beautiful floral installations, lounge style seating for your guests or rent gorgeous chairs, a new bridal look (hello short or colourful dresses!), gift bags filled with treats for your guests, that 5 piece invitation suite that you’ve been eyeing on Instagram, and of course an epic venue!
three
Decide if you want to live stream
If you want to share this intimate moment with friends and family afar, talk about if live streaming your ceremony would be a good fit for your day. We highly recommend using a professional service so the audio can be properly captured and limit any technical issues! It also allows those 2-8 guests to be fully present instead of worrying about an internet connection on an iPad!
four
Incorporate additional elements to your ceremony
Maybe that is having a parent come up to say something at the beginning or end of the ceremony or a unity ceremony (wine or sand ceremony, handfasting, light a unity candle) or a first dance after the recessional or even writing love letters to each other to re read at your future “sequel” wedding!
five
Ensure Safety
Most minimony ceremonies are occurring under heavy restrictions so being clear about risk mitigation tactics is so important! Physical distancing between households, chair tags (make them cute!), minimal mingling and programs with guideline are great ways to keep your guests safe while celebrating your union. Check with your venue on their restrictions and you can always chat with a wedding planner to help manage and plan through the restrictions!
So why should you consider a minimony?
Featured Minimony:
Vendor Credits: Design & Planning: Moments by Madeleine // Photography: Carly Hill Photo // Florals: Fall for Florals // Rentals: Modern Rentals // Hair & Makeup: Blush & Coco // Venue: Fairmont Lake Louise // Stationery: Debbie Wong Design // Grazing Boxes: Brie & Banquet // Cookies: Bake My Day
Tips from the Pros
From Contributor,
Moments by Madeleine
Hi! I’m Madeleine, the founder and lead planner of Moments By Madeleine Weddings & Events. I really think love is the most magical thing and creating a day full of those moments whether just the two of you or a hundred of your favourite people is why we do what we do.
So what do we do? We specialize in weddings and provide planning, design and coordination or a customized blend of services for our couples so that you can enjoy your engagement without all the stresses of planning. We are there alongside you from initial consultation till the close of the best day of your life!
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