Micro Weddings: What They Are, What They Cost, and Why Couples Are Choosing Them
- Sarah Clark Varley
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Part 2 of a 3-part series - Read part 1 here
How Much Does a Micro Wedding Cost? Realistic Budgets & What to Expect
One of the biggest misconceptions about micro weddings is that they’re inexpensive.
While micro weddings often cost less than large traditional weddings, they are not “cheap”, and they aren’t meant to be. They are intentional reallocations of budget, not eliminations of value.
Let’s talk honestly about what micro weddings cost, where the money goes, and what couples in Montana should realistically expect.
Photo by Tabby Miller Photography at Yellowstone Valley Lodge - Picnic setup by Bitterroot and Blue
Average Micro Wedding Budget Ranges
For couples planning micro weddings in Montana, especially in and around Billings, these are realistic ranges:
$8,000–$12,000 - A simple micro wedding with a streamlined vendor team and minimal design.
$12,000–$20,000 - The most common range for a fully styled micro wedding with professional vendors.
$20,000–$30,000+ - Luxury micro weddings with elevated design, premium vendors, and curated guest experiences.
These numbers reflect real planning, not elopements, courthouse ceremonies, or DIY backyard events without professional support.
Why Micro Weddings Still Require a Budget
Even with fewer guests, many wedding costs remain the same.
You still need:
A venue
Photography
Officiant
Florals
Rentals or decor
Catering or food service
Planning and coordination
The difference is where your money goes.
Photo by Tabby Miller Photography at Yellowstone Valley Lodge
Where Micro Wedding Budgets Are Typically Spent
Venue - Many venues have minimums regardless of guest count. Micro weddings often use smaller spaces within venues or alternative locations.
Catering - Feeding fewer people allows couples to elevate the experience — plated dinners, chef-driven menus, family-style meals, or private dining.
Photography - Photography pricing rarely changes based on guest count. Coverage length and expertise matter more.
Florals & Design - Micro weddings shine here. Fewer tables and spaces mean more impactful design choices.
Planning & Coordination - Micro weddings still require timelines, logistics, vendor communication, and day-of management, often with more precision.
What Micro Weddings Save Money On
Micro weddings may reduce costs related to:
Guest count-based catering
Large rental quantities
Extensive transportation
Oversized venues
However, savings are often reinvested into experience and quality.
The Truth About “Saving Money”
Many couples don’t choose micro weddings to spend less; they choose them to spend better.
Instead of paying for:
150 dinners
Large venue overhead
Excess rentals
They invest in:
Better food
Better photography
Better design
A calmer, more meaningful day
Do You Still Need a Planner for a Micro Wedding?
Yes! And often even more so.
Micro weddings require:
Precise timelines
Thoughtful guest flow
Vendor coordination
Setup and teardown
Weather planning (especially in Montana)
The smaller the guest count, the more noticeable the details become..
Final Thoughts
Micro weddings aren’t about cutting corners; they’re about intentional investment.
Understanding realistic budgets helps couples plan confidently, avoid surprises, and create an experience that feels aligned with their values.
In Part 3, we’ll explore why micro weddings continue to grow in popularity.
Until then!
Considering a micro wedding in the Billings or surrounding area? Check out my micro wedding package!
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