The Ultimate Micro Wedding Planning Checklist (From a Maine Wedding Planner’s POV)

A Mindset Moment Before We Dive In

Let’s get something out of the way: planning a micro wedding doesn’t mean planning a lesser wedding. It means planning a celebration that’s intimate, intentional, and truly about the two of you.

As a wedding planner who works closely with couples all across Maine, I’m here to help you bring your vision to life in a way that feels magical, meaningful, and manageable. Whether your dream is to exchange vows deep in the woods, beside a quiet lake, or on a windswept coastal cliff, I’m here to help make that dream happen—permits, logistics, and all.

So take a deep breath. You don’t have to figure this out alone—I’ve got your back.

STEP 1: HIRE A PLANNER WHO GETS IT

When you’re planning a micro wedding or elopement in Maine, having someone local who understands the landscape—literally and figuratively—can make all the difference.

From venue scouting and permit research to vendor referrals and timeline creation, my job is to handle the details so you can focus on the fun. I’ve done the digging, visited the hidden-gem properties, and built relationships with vendors who love intimate celebrations as much as I do.

Questions to ask when hiring your planner:

• Do you specialize in small weddings or elopements?

• What are your favorite off-the-beaten-path venues?

• Can you help us with permits for state parks or private properties?

• How do you create a timeline that feels relaxed but organized?

STEP 2: SET YOUR GUEST LIST (AND HONOR YOUR BOUNDARIES)

One of the biggest benefits of a micro wedding is curating your guest list with intention. But this is also where things can go off the rails fast.

You start with the idea of 20-25 people and suddenly you’re at 50+. Here’s how to rein it in:

• Write down the names of the people you can’t imagine getting married without.

• Ask yourself: “Would I be excited to have a real conversation with this person at my wedding?”

• Don’t invite people out of guilt. You’re allowed to say no.

Smaller weddings mean more connection, more moments, and more you in the day.

STEP 3: PICK YOUR DATE WISELY

In Maine, your wedding date matters. Here’s what to know:

• Fall (late Sept–Oct) is magic here—vibrant foliage, crisp air, cozy vibes.

• June and September Saturdays? Booked solid. Consider Fridays or Sundays for more availability (and better rates!).

• Summer Sundays are underrated—same golden light, more vendor flexibility.

• Avoid major holidays unless you’re okay with higher vendor pricing and less availability.

Pro tip: If you’re dreaming of a coastal elopement or ceremony in a state park, planning mid-week is often the best way to avoid crowds and score the best views.

STEP 4: FIND THE RIGHT VENUE (OR LOCATION)

This is where micro weddings shine: you can skip the ballrooms and think outside the box.

Think:

• Forest glades in Bethel

• Private rentals on the coast

• Lavender fields, wildflower farms, rocky coves

I can help you scout locations that aren’t even on Google. Whether you’re after ceremony-only spots or cozy venues for dinner after, I’ll guide you to the best fit for your guest count, style, and vibe.

Questions to ask venues:

• What’s your micro wedding policy?

• Are there elopement or ceremony-only packages?

• What’s the rain plan?

• Can we bring in outside vendors?

• What time can we access the space for setup?

STEP 5: HAVE A BUDGET REALITY CHECK

Micro doesn’t always mean dirt cheap. It means you can reallocate your budget to the things that matter most to you.

Average Maine micro wedding range: $4,500–$30,000

Rough breakdown:

• Venue: $300–5,000

• Catering/Food Truck/Private Chef: $1,000–8,000

• Planner: $800–4,000 (depending on services)

• Florals: $300–3,000

• Photography: $1,500–8,000

• Attire: $300–2,000

• Rentals/Décor: $300–1,500

• Officiant, music, transportation: varies

The key? Prioritize your top 2–3 splurges, and keep the rest simple. Don’t try to DIY everything or you’ll burn out. Let your planner take some of that off your plate.

STEP 6: BUILD YOUR MICRO WEDDING VENDOR TEAM

With a smaller wedding, every vendor plays a more personal role in your day. You want people who love micro weddings—not ones who treat them like “lesser” events.

Your core vendor dream team:

1. Planner (hi 👋)

2. Photographer

3. Caterer/private chef

4. Officiant

5. Florist

6. Hair & makeup artist

Questions to ask:

• Do you enjoy working with small groups?

• Can we see examples of intimate weddings you’ve done?

• How do you adapt your services for micro weddings?

Look for vendors who light up when you say “intimate,” “low-key,” or “outdoor elopement.”

STEP 7: CREATE A LOOSE TIMELINE

One of the best parts of a micro wedding is the relaxed schedule. It’s not about cramming 100 moving parts into one day—it’s about creating space for connection.

Sample micro wedding timeline:

• 2:00 PM – Getting ready

• 4:00 PM – First look & portraits

• 5:00 PM – Ceremony

• 5:30 PM – Cocktails + family photos

• 6:30 PM – Dinner

• 8:00 PM – Toasts & dancing

• 9:00 PM – Golden hour portraits

• 10:00 PM – Campfire/send-off

Your day can be as traditional or spontaneous as you want it to be. That’s the beauty of micro.

STEP 8: PLAN PERSONAL TOUCHES

This is where micro weddings really shine

With fewer guests, you have more room for thoughtful details:

Ideas I love:

• Handwritten notes or custom favors for each guest

• Cozy family-style dinners

• Signature cocktails with a story behind them

• Welcome baskets with Maine-made goodies

• A private first dance under the stars

You don’t need towering centerpieces or formal plated dinners. Keep it real, keep it meaningful.

STEP 9: COMMUNICATE WITH GRACE

This is the tough part: not everyone’s getting an invite. But you can be kind and clear at the same time.

What works:

“We’ve chosen to have a small, intentional ceremony with just our closest people. We truly hope you understand, and we’d love to celebrate with you another time.”

What doesn’t work:

• Blaming your budget

• Apologizing for your choice

Be confident in your decision. It’s your day, your way.

STEP 10: ENJOY THE PROCESS

This is supposed to be fun. Yes, there will be logistics and timelines—but planning a micro wedding means you get to focus on what matters most: your love story.

So, breathe. Let it be joyful. Let it be personal. Let it be you.

Ready to Plan Your Maine Micro Wedding?

Whether you’re dreaming of a mountaintop vow exchange, a coastal ceremony at golden hour, or a cozy dinner with your favorite people—I’d be honored to help you bring it to life.

Let’s chat. I offer planning packages for:

• Elopements

• Micro weddings (under 50 guests)

• Month-of coordination

• Full-service planning for intimate celebrations

Send me a message, and let’s start creating something unforgettable.