Some brides dream of having an extravagant wedding [1], while others cringe at the thought of having all eyes on them. And then there are some who don't mind the attention but find a grand reception [2] unnecessary. A full-scale wedding isn't for everyone — an intimate gathering of close friends and family or just the couple themselves is often enough. If you're not into putting on a large production for your special day, you'll appreciate the casual ideas we have ahead. Check out these eight simple options!
City Hall Wedding
A city hall wedding [3] is great because you have the option to have one person or your entire family witness your union. This couple made a trip out of it and flew to San Francisco for five days to explore the city after tying the knot. You can also wear whatever you want from jeans to a wedding gown.
Coffee Shop Wedding
To keep it super casual, pick a coffee shop you both love and serve small bites at the reception. There's already a barista available for beverages, but you can always try arranging a small list of cocktails to serve to your guests. This couple gave out ground coffee as wedding favors [5] to continue the theme.
Destination Wedding For 2
Want to escape to your honeymoon first? This couple eloped in Iceland [6] by themselves and celebrated with friends and family when they returned home. They got a wedding and vacation all in one trip.
Intimate Beach Wedding
This couple rented a home along the coast [8] in San Luis Obispo, CA, and invited their closest friends and family over to witness their nuptials. You can follow the same idea even without the rental and have an intimate ceremony on the beach.
Restaurant Wedding
Instead of hosting your ceremony and reception at different locations, have them both in one place [9]. Tie the knot at your first-date spot or your favorite place to eat together. If you don't want an actual wedding, think of it as a large dinner party with your closest loved ones. Plus, you know the food will be fantastic.
Backyard Wedding
You don't even have to leave your home to get married! Invite guests over to celebrate in your backyard and go as casual as In-N-Out burgers [11] or as fancy as a gourmet dinner. Summer nights are especially a perfect time for backyard festivities. Roast marshmallows over the fire, or set up lawn games as entertainment [12].
Elopement
There's something about eloping that's incredibly romantic [13]. Nobody else knows but you and your partner, and the two of you have such a sacred moment to always share. Elope at a courthouse [14], in a foreign country, or in the forest like this couple.
Rooftop Wedding
Think high and exchange vows at a small rooftop gathering [15] instead of a traditional venue. It doesn't hurt if your own apartment building has some amazing views like this couple's. Continue the reception there, or take it down to your place for drinks.