Embrace the San Luis Obispo Micro Wedding Trend
First…just what IS a “micro wedding” anyway? In the simplest terms is just a smaller, more intimate version of a traditional wedding. The guest list is usually between 10 to 50 people and the entire celebration is focused on the couple and their closest family and friends. Sounds amazing, right??? I’ve fallen in love with photographing this emerging trend over the last few years, and I’ve also learned a few things I can share with you here!
If a huge venue and a guest list that requires a spreadsheet gives you anxiety, and a smaller, more intimate celebration makes your heart happy, then a micro wedding is probably for you. San Luis Obispo County is quite literally your perfect backdrop, so you’re in luck. Let the rolling hills and unforgettable coastline guide your dreams when it comes to planning your perfect day.
So, how do you get started creating your perfect San Luis Obispo County micro wedding?
1. Find Your Perfect Spot - From Beaches to Ranches and Beyond
When it comes to locations, San Luis Obispo County is brimming with options. Here are some options that I’ve fallen in love while photographing Central Coast micro weddings:
Windows on the Water (Morro Bay)
If the ocean has your heart, and the small “beach town vibes” give you goosebumps, then this is the perfect venue for your micro wedding. They have a room that overlooks Morro Bay Harbor and Morro Rock where you can say your vows and give your guests the view of a lifetime, and then you can follow that with some of the most amazing food in the area. They can even close the dining room for you so you can have a small dance floor! When it comes to your wedding photos, you can take a stroll along the harbor, walk out on one of the docks for some cinematic imagery and have a gorgeous “dip and kiss” with the Morro Bay main drag as your backdrop!
Oak and Ivy at Home Sweet Home (Paso Robles)
If you love the charming vibe of a ranch with rolling hills, trees and that rustic country vibe, this venue has you covered (they even have their own pond)! It’s also a “one stop shop”…get ready in the guest house, say “I Do” on the amazing lawn surrounded by trees, and then finish the evening with dinner and dancing under the most amazing Oak Tree or in their one of a kind barn. This venue would be the perfect micro wedding backdrop!
Kaleidoscope Inn and Gardens (Nipomo)
When most people think of the Central Coast, they don’t imagine a fully restored Victorian Bed and Breakfast with endless roses and lush greenery that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into an old-world romance novel, but as I mentioned before, San Luis Obispo County has it all! This venue is truly gorgeous and absolutely perfect for a micro wedding that is full of intimacy, romance and charm.
2. Embrace the Intimacy and Personal Touches
The beauty of a micro wedding is that you get to focus on what truly matters - your closest friends and family and the meaningful details. With a smaller guest list, you have the freedom to add those personal touches that will make your day feel even more special.
- Make It Personal
From custom cocktails with fun names to hand-made favors that reflect your personality, there are countless ways to make your micro wedding unique. And let’s face it – a smaller guest list means a bigger budget for the things that will really make your day unique! If you love supporting local small businesses as much as I do, San Luis Obispo County has so many local artisans and shops that would add the perfect touch to your micro wedding. - Keep It Cozy
With fewer guests, you can create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. You could opt for a relaxed seating arrangement, like picnic tables or lounge areas, where guests can mingle easily. Family style dining tables are also very popular and a lot of fun. You can even curate a playlist of your favorite songs for the reception and have a small dance floor under the stars — a dance with just your nearest and dearest can be one of the most magical moments of your day.
3. Don’t Skip the Essentials
While you’re keeping things small, there are a few key elements that you won’t want to skip to ensure your wedding day feels like the celebration of a lifetime:
- Photography is a Must!
You’ll want to remember every moment of your beautiful day, and that’s exactly what your wedding photographs will give to you. You’ll want your photographs to feel natural and authentic, and to tell the unique story of your entire day. Maybe you’ll want to include a “first look” or more time for those amazing “getting ready” photographs – think intimate and romantic, with all the smiles and happy tears captured. - Delicious Food & Drinks
Food is one of the highlights of any wedding and with a micro wedding, you can go all out with everything from a gourmet caterer to local food trucks. Make sure your food matches your “vibe” and also has options for everyone who may have food restrictions. And, of course, a nice bottle of local wine or craft cocktails are the perfect companion. - Simple but Stunning Decor
You don’t need to overdo it with décor when your location is already so beautiful. Think greenery, fairy lights, and maybe a few simple floral arrangements that reflect the natural beauty of the area. For example, local wildflowers or succulents can be a sweet and sustainable way to decorate. Keep it light, breezy, and reflective of the relaxed vibe of a San Luis Obispo County wedding.
Bonus Tip: Enjoy Local Activities with Your Guests
A micro wedding means you have more time to explore the local area with your guests. Why not extend the celebration by adding a few fun activities for your crew? Take your bridal party for a hike at Bishop’s Peak or explore the charming streets of downtown Cambria. If you're near Pismo Beach, a group bonfire is a great way to end the evening with s’mores and cozy memories.
San Luis Obispo County is the perfect destination for couples looking to tie the knot in a setting that’s beautiful, relaxed, and intimate. Keep it simple, personal, and fun, and you’ll have a day that’s as magical as the place itself. Cheers to love, and happy planning!
If you’re looking for a wedding photographer who is “in the know” when it comes to the micro wedding trend, I’m your gal! I would love to hear about your vision, and I’m happy to share all the little tips and tricks I’ve learned about micro weddings and how to give you the most spectacular photographs imaginable! Contact me if you’d like to chat!