Our ‘new normal’ when it comes to wedding planning has been defined by COVID-19 and the uncertainty of being able to book for large groups, interstate travel, and sadly overseas travel will still not be an option for a while to come. As a result, there’s been a significant increase in couples opting for smaller, more intimate local weddings.
Elopements
The term ‘elopement’ has existed as far back as the thirteenth century, where it was tied to secrecy and the literal meaning ‘to leap’. It has since evolved over time to become an intimate way for couples to commit their love to one another, without the pressure of wedding traditions.
Elopements are usually planned and attended only by the couple, a witness, a celebrant, a photographer, and often (but not always) performed in secret. Within the Tamborine Mountain Wedding Group, we are fortunate to have a selection of wonderful celebrants offering elopement services:
Robert Simmons with a gorgeous newlywed couple 
Kim Burgess from Easy Elopements at a beautiful rainforest elopement ceremony
Micro Weddings
On a slightly larger scale, micro weddings are a cross between an elopement and a big, traditional wedding, with a smaller guest list of around 20 people.
This wedding style is perfect for couples who want to spend quality time with each loved one, and also enables couples to budget for experiences that may be difficult to replicate for weddings of 100+ guests – more expensive local wines, amazing catered food, venues that are tailored for more intimate settings…
In the current environment, smaller and more intimate bespoke wedding ceremonies are allowing couples to adapt quickly to changing conditions or any last-minute cancellations. We’re also seeing a trend with couples opting for ‘destination elopements on Tamborine Mountain and turning it into a macro experience to honeymoon and explore the destination with friends and loved ones after the wedding.
Newlyweds at St Bernards Hotel 
Edwina & Matt at Stonehaven Manor 
Jaimi & Lil at Cedar Creek Estate
If you need help exploring the most suitable setting for your upcoming wedding, our wonderful team of local suppliers and venues would love to help you. Why not get in touch and start talking through your ideas. Happy wedding planning!
