We polled some industry experts on their top tips for prioritizing the guest experience (and yours!) with a bigger wedding.
By: Meghan Ely
Photo: Craig Peterman Photography & Videography
With larger celebrations remaining popular among engaged couples planning their big day, the pressure is on to make sure you can navigate all of the moving parts that come along with a big event. That said, it may also present a challenge to make your wedding feel intimate with a large crowd, whether that's being able to connect individually with your loved ones or create a cozy environment.
"One of the best ways to make a large wedding feel more intimate is by centralizing your party and keeping all your guests together in one space/area. Placing your bar right on/or next to the dance floor makes it easy to grab a drink while dancing to your favorite songs with all your favorite people. Having any late-night food served right to the guests as opposed to being stationed in an outside foyer or back corner keeps everyone close and together." —Michael Coombs, Michael Coombs Entertainment
"Break down the day into smaller, meaningful experiences. Think of having private vows just between the couple before the ceremony or setting up intimate lounge areas where guests can hang out away from the main hustle. These micro-moments give everyone a chance to connect on a personal level." —Craig Peterman, Craig Peterman Photography & Videography
"Instead of using standard seating/escort cards, couples can choose small note cards with envelopes to write each guest a special note that they can read at the reception. The envelopes can be customized with each guest's name and seating assignment for functionality, but the personalized note enclosed in each envelope with a heartfelt message or recalling of a treasured memory will definitely be something that will make each guest feel very honored, regardless of a large guest count." —Kelley Nudo, Momental Designs
"Have a destination wedding! The quality time you get to spend with your loved ones during a multi-day celebration in paradise will help make everyone feel closer." —Jen Avey, Destination Weddings Travel Group
"When thinking about spatial design, think about all the things you would like to do during your day! There can be a few ways to set aside spaces that lend your couples, their family, and friends smaller spaces to connect, talk, and even interact with conversation. Your venue of choice, be it indoor, outdoor, or both, can set aside some spaces that allow intimate moments to happen even when there is a large attendee count." - Jen Sulak, Weirdo Weddings
"Use décor and table settings to tell the stories that give your guests a sense of interacting with you. The reality of a larger wedding is that the couple has less time with each guest. You can use playful décor and stories to expand on guests' feelings as they interact meaningfully with you. As an example, one of our couples on their floorplan named their tables after a number of their favorite experiences and put a little centerpiece and vignette outlining a short story, quote, or photo for each table. This allowed guests to collect a series of stories and experiences that gave them a sense of the couple, even if they were not relayed directly." —Vijay Goel, Bite Catering Couture
"How you light your space can change everything about the perception of your event. Dimmer spaces with glowy candlelight and specific, directional light towards the main points of focus will help everyone see the important moments and lessen the feeling of being in a larger crowd. Spending time with as many of your guests as possible is an incredibly generous way to make your event feel intimate. For couples, this may mean an earlier start: doing a first look and all portraits before the ceremony kicks off to maximize your time at cocktail hour. At dinner, plan to eat first if you'd like to visit any tables, and afterward, spend time on that dance floor! Guests leaving the event, having spent some quality time with the guests of honor, will feel valued, regardless of how many people are in the room together." —Rachel Ceaser, Savoir Fête
"If you are looking to host a big wedding, you can offer pre-wedding activities and events for guests as they arrive in town. This allows folks to pick and choose what they want to attend and gives you an opportunity to engage with your guests in smaller groups. Additionally, you can book a larger Airbnb and invite your closest friends for a sleepover the days before for some serious QT with your besties!" —Loni Peterson, LP Creative Events
Any guest list of over 100 people will feel overwhelming by nature, but playing with space, unique experiences, ambiance, and the overall atmosphere can ensure that you’re making your wedding feel intimate, even with a large headcount.
Meghan Ely is the owner of wedding PR and wedding marketing firm OFD Consulting. Ely is a sought-after speaker and a self-professed royal wedding enthusiast.
