Elopement vs Micro Wedding: Which One’s Right for You?
Not every celebration looks the same—and that’s the beauty of it.
These days, more couples are choosing to honour their love with experiences that feel personal, meaningful, and intentionally designed around them. Whether it’s an intimate “just us” escape or a small gathering with your nearest and dearest, there’s something magical about celebrating in a way that truly reflects who you are.
That’s where elopements and micro weddings come in.
Both offer an incredible chance to focus on what matters most—connection, experience, and unforgettable moments. So how do you choose between the two?
Let’s explore what makes each one special, so you can find the perfect fit for your dream day.
What is an Elopement?
An elopement is all about you two. Think of it as an intentionally small, wildly meaningful celebration where the focus is on your connection—not the guest list.
It’s often just the couple (and maybe a photographer, celebrant, and planner), surrounded by epic scenery and wrapped in adventure. From mountaintop vows to forest picnics, elopements are designed to be intimate, romantic, and completely personalised.
Elopements are perfect if you’re dreaming of:
A truly private, no-pressure day
An adventurous destination (hello, French Alps!)
Saying your vows without an audience
A “just us” story you’ll remember forever
And no, it doesn’t have to be a secret or spontaneous anymore—modern elopements are beautifully planned and full of thoughtful, wow-worthy details.
What is a Micro Wedding?
A micro wedding is like a full wedding… just scaled down. It usually includes up to 20–30 guests, which means you get to share your day with your favourite people without the overwhelm of a big event.
It’s ideal for couples who want a more intimate experience, but still love the idea of a structured ceremony, dinner, and maybe even a dance under the stars.
Micro weddings are perfect if you’re dreaming of:
A small but meaningful guest list
A touch of tradition with a relaxed vibe
Gorgeous décor, food, and details
Creating memories with your closest circle
You get the best of both worlds: connection and celebration, but without the stress or scale of a larger wedding.
There’s no “better” option here—just what feels right for you. Whether you're dreaming of hiking into the Alps for a sunrise ceremony or renting a stunning chalet for your nearest and dearest, both paths are filled with unforgettable moments.
How to Decide What’s Right for You
Still feeling torn? Here are a few questions to help you figure it out:
Do you want to include family and friends in your celebration?
Are you drawn to the idea of a private, adventurous experience?
How much structure (or flexibility) do you want in your day?
What kind of energy do you want to be surrounded by?
If you want something wildly intimate, where it’s just the two of you and the mountains—an elopement might be your dream match.
If you want to pop champagne with your people, share stories, and still keep things small and intentional—a micro wedding could be perfect.
And of course, you can blend the two! Elope first, celebrate later. Or bring a handful of guests on your adventure. Your wedding, your rules.
Why We Love Both—Especially at Lac de Montriond
Whether it’s just the two of you or a handful of your favourite humans, Lac de Montriond is a stunning backdrop for both elopements and micro weddings.
Tucked into the French Alps, it offers that postcard-perfect mix of serenity and drama: turquoise water, towering cliffs, and the kind of light that makes every photo magic. It's secluded, cinematic, and so worth the trip.
And the best part? We specialise in weddings at Lac de Montriond, so if your heart’s pulling you toward this unforgettable corner of the world—we know exactly how to bring it to life.
Let’s Create Something Epic
Whether you're leaning toward a "just us" mountaintop ceremony or a lakeside dinner with your closest crew, we’re here to make it all feel effortless, beautiful, and uniquely you.
Curious about what a wedding at Lac Montriond could actually look like? Discover the magic in our blog: Getting Married at Lac Montriond: A Magical Lakeside Ceremony in Morzine
And if your heart is already saying yes to the French Alps—let’s talk. Reach out today and let’s start planning a celebration that’s truly unforgettable.