How to plan a Relaxed Intimate Wedding in Toronto & Durham Region
Are you getting married in 2025 or 2026? Huge congrats to you! I am sure you are both still grinning from ear to ear and rightly so! It’s such an exciting time. It is also an overwhelming time but it doesn’t have to be. This blog post will help you consider an Intimate/Micro Wedding. One that still has the wow factor but is budget-friendly and less stress! Heck yea!
I promise to include practical tips to help you as a couple plan a meaningful, low stress day within the Durham Region and Toronto area.
Start with What Matters Most
It’s important to define your core values. Things that matter most to you both (ie: connections, family and location)
Before diving into guest lists or table settings, pause and reflect: What do we want to feel on our wedding day? Is it peaceful? Joyful? Private? Write down your non-negotiables — like personal vows, a private first look, or having your dog walk down the aisle — and let those values guide every decision from here.
2. Choose a Venue That Feels Like You
The right space sets the tone. Skip oversized banquet halls and opt for venues that feel personal. Think of Boutique Hotels, Gardens, Private Estates
or Backyard Weddings. A few stunning options in Toronto and Durham Region include the following below. These smaller venues often
allow more flexibility with timelines, decor, and layout — all helping you stay relaxed. Here are a few local venues in Toronto and the
Durham Region that suit small weddings. The Lake House, Heintzman House, Bellamy Loft, Bloom Field Gardens, Harding Waterfront Estate,
3. Create a Small, Meaningful Guest List
A smaller guest list opens the door to elevated experiences. Imagine fewer introductions and more quality time and can fit your budget better.
You can treat your guests to custom cocktails, a chef-prepared dinner, or even handwritten notes at each place setting.
4. Simplify Your Wedding Day Timeline
One of the biggest perks of an intimate wedding? No rush. You can sleep in, enjoy a slow breakfast, and get ready without the chaos.
Here’s a simple relaxed sample timeline:
• 2 PM: First look
• 3 PM: Ceremony
• 4 PM: Portraits + cocktails
• 6 PM: Dinner + toasts
• 8 PM: Cake, dancing, or fireside chill
Eliminate traditions that don’t feel right for you — like bouquet tosses or overly structured entrances — and build your own rhythm.
5. Work with Vendors Who Specialize in Intimate Celebrations
It is SO important to hire a Photographer (like myself) who knows how to document quiet, in-between moments.
I highly recommend that you speak to your potential photographer to make sure they are the right fit for you and your family,
You want someone who is invested in you and your day. One who is relatable and not just there for another gig.
I recommend doing your research for Wedding Florists ( like Aspen Florist) who have been in the business for over a decade and provide
the BEST customer service from start to finish, not to mention the highest quality in blooms. Planners like One in a Million Events will help
curate the most beautiful Wedding Day for you with the utmost care and detail.
6. Add Personal Touches That Reflect Your Story
The beauty of a small wedding is that you can do things your way. Write your own vows, choose a ceremony reading that’s deeply personal, or
wear a family heirloom. One couple I photographed in Durham shared tea after their ceremony to honour their heritage — it was the most grounding
and beautiful moment of the day.
7. Bonus Tips for Relaxed Planning
If you aren’t using a planner, consider hiring a day of co-ordinator.
Do a first look to calm the nerves
Create a no-pressure photo list or better yet, leave that up to your Photographer.
Leave time for just the two of you post ceremony. Bridal Portraits/Photos can be done during this time, or if weather allows sneak off for Golden Hour Photos.
Whether you’re planning a Toronto elopement, a backyard celebration in the Durham Region, or a cozy wedding in a lakeside venue, the best intimate weddings are the ones that feel like you. Looking for a photographer who specializes in small, heartfelt weddings? Reach out Here or Browse my Portfolio. I’d love to help you slow down, soak it in, and preserve every beautiful moment.
Congratulations and I can’t wait to document your Wedding Day for you both!
