Why a Small Wedding Might Be Perfect for You

Relaxed, joyful photography for intimate celebrations in London and beyond

Not everyone dreams of a big, extravagant wedding. And you know what? That’s more than OK. In fact, more and more couples are choosing to keep things smaller and discovering just how wonderful a small wedding can be.

As someone who’s photographed hundreds of weddings across London, Surrey and the UK, I can honestly say that small weddings have a very special kind of magic. They’re relaxed and heartfelt, more about connection. I can see way less pressure, and much more intention.

So, if you’re thinking a small wedding might be more your style, here’s why it could be the perfect choice.

bride wearing birdcage veil looking at the groom in military uniformbride and groom kiss at chelsea registry office

What is a small wedding?

There’s no fixed definition, but I usually think of a small wedding as having anywhere between 2 and 40 guests. It might be a stylish ceremony like this Marylebone Town Hall elopement or a laid-back gathering in a gorgeous house next to your favourite London park like Laura and Steve’s wedding at Pembroke Lodge.

Small weddings can still be stylish and full of fun. You’re just doing it on your terms with less stress.

 

Why have a small wedding?

1. You get to focus on what you want

Planning a smaller wedding gives you the freedom to strip things back and centre your day around what really matters. You’re not trying to please a big crowd—you’re crafting a day that feels like you.

2. Less stress, more connection

You don’t have to worry about keeping 100+ people fed, watered and entertained. You can actually talk to every guest. You can slow down, be present, and savour the day without it flying by in a blur.

3. Your budget goes further

Having fewer guests means you can prioritise the things that matter most to you whether that’s an incredible meal, a standout outfit, beautiful florals or relaxed, natural photography.

4. It opens up creative possibilities

Small weddings often mean more venue flexibility. You’re not tied to a big space or rigid format. You could get married at your local registry office, host a dinner party reception, or book your favourite pub. You can even turn it into a multi-day celebration, like Cordi & Simon’s stylish two-day London wedding.

Real small weddings, real love

Here are just a few small weddings I’ve had the joy of capturing:

Hazel and Mat’s relaxed mini wedding in south London

Ellen and Cian’s intimate garden wedding at the Horniman Museum

Cynthia and Panawat’s micro wedding at Pembroke Lodge

Each of these weddings looked and felt totally different and that’s the beauty of going small. It gives you the freedom to create something that’s truly yours.

 

Small wedding, big feels

Photographing small weddings is one of my favourite things to do. The connection, and the relaxed vibe is a dream to capture.

Whether you’re planning a low-key London elopement, or a small gathering with a few loved ones, I’ll be there to document it all naturally and unobtrusively. You won’t find me barking orders or setting up stiff poses. I’ll gently guide when needed, but mostly I’ll let the day unfold and capture the real moments.

 

bride in white pant suit and groom laughing in front of chelsea house and albert bridge

Thinking of planning a small wedding?

If you’re leaning towards a smaller celebration, I’d love to hear all about it. Whether it’s a cosy pub ceremony, a city hall elopement, or a family-only garden gathering, I’m here to capture it all with warmth, creativity, and a big dose of joy.

Let’s make it feel like you. Find my small wedding photography pricing options here and get in touch to check my availability here.

Fee x

If you enjoyed this blog you might find these planning tips helpful: How to plan a small wedding in 10 steps

bride and groom smiling at mother of bride during the ceremony

About Fiona Kelly

Fiona Kelly is a London-based wedding, family and proposal photographer with over 16 years of experience. She specialises in elopements, proposals, small weddings, and family photography across London and the South East. She’s a recommended photographer at incredible London venues including Horniman Museum, RSA House, Queens House, Carlton House Terrace and Pembroke Lodge and she’s a Muddy Stilettos approved supplier.

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