Minimony vs. Microwedding vs. Elopement - The Perfect Intimate Wedding

Calling all newly engaged couples who are looking to say I do in a non-traditional way.

At Christman Photography, nestled in the heart of the Lehigh Valley & Poconos area, we're thrilled to be your guide through this enchanting maze of possibilities. 

Let's take a closer look at the three most intimate wedding options:

• The charming Minimony
• The cozy Microwedding
• The adventurous Elopement

In this blog we'll also include some truly picturesque and expectional local locations to consider. 

So grab a cup of coffee, snuggle up, and let's dive in! 

Minimony: Your Mini, Mighty Love Affair 

Imagine this: You and your partner, a handful of your closest friends and family, and a picturesque setting in the Lehigh Valley & Poconos. That's what a Minimony is all about.

A Minimony is like a tiny sparkler in the sky—small but brilliant. It typically involves a guest list of 10-15 people, creating an atmosphere that's both intimate and meaningful. You'll have the chance to exchange heartfelt vows without the grandeur of a traditional wedding.

Pros:

• A short and sweet guest list means you get to spend quality time with your nearest and dearest.
• Your love story takes center stage without overwhelming planning.
• Budget-friendly, which means more money for those honeymoon ice cream sundaes!
• Perfect for couples who prefer simplicity and intimacy.

Cons:

• You might have to make some tough decisions about who makes the guest list cut.
• Fewer frills compared to a larger wedding.
• Your aunt might not get to show off her epic dance moves.

Micro Wedding: Small but Mighty 

If a Minimony is a sparkler, a Micro Wedding is a dazzling display of fireworks—a bit bigger but still breathtaking.

With a guest list of around 20-50 people, a Micro Wedding gives you more room to breathe and personalize your day. You can still have all the elements of a traditional wedding, just on a smaller scale. The best part? You're not breaking the bank.

Pros:

• A slightly larger guest list means you can include more friends and family.
• Personalization and décor can make your day truly magical.
• You get to have your wedding cake and eat it too—just on a smaller plate.
• Ideal for couples who want an intimate gathering without resorting to "Sorry, Aunt Judy, but you didn't make the cut."

Cons:

• Requires a bit more planning compared to a Minimony.
• You might have to make some tough guest list decisions (again).
• You won't be performing on a stadium-sized stage.

Elopement: A Private Symphony of Love 

Elopements are like the secret garden of weddings—just you, your partner, and an officiant in a stunning, secret location or just us as your witnesses.

Picture saying "I do" on a mountaintop, in a secluded forest, or even on a tranquil river. Elopements are the epitome of privacy and intimacy, allowing you to focus on your love story without any distractions.

Pros:

• Ultimate privacy—just you, your partner, and Mother Nature as your witness.
• You can choose any location your heart desires, from mountaintops to beaches.
• Minimal stress and planning means more time to snuggle and enjoy each other's company.
• Budget-friendly for couples who prefer saving for future adventures.

Cons:

• Family and friends might miss out on witnessing your vows.
• The celebration may lack some traditional wedding elements.
• Your wedding planner might feel slightly underworked (but that's a good thing!).

Finally, here's a small list of breathtaking locations we highly recommend for all the intimate options we've given above.

Beltzville State Park - Lehighton, PA: A Nature Lover's Dream

Located at the foothills of the Poconos, Beltzville State Park offers a breathtaking canvas for your Elopement. This enchanting state park boasts a variety of scenic spots, from a serene beach to charming covered bridges, vast open fields, and cascading waterfalls. As the day transforms into evening, the sunset over the pristine lake paints a mesmerizing backdrop. Simply put, Beltzville State Park is a paradise for photographers and a haven for couples seeking an intimate connection with nature.

Lock Ridge Park - Allentown, PA: Where History Meets Romance

Lock Ridge Park in Allentown, PA, offers a unique blend of history and romance. Its stone structures, remnants of a coal-burning iron furnace and mill, provide a captivating backdrop for weddings in every season. Springtime at Lock Ridge Park is particularly enchanting, with the vibrant bloom of bluebells, while autumn sets the stage with a riot of colors in the mature trees. Rolling green hills provide a picturesque setting for your special day, making it as close to a castle as you'll find in Pennsylvania.

Hickory Run State Park - White Haven, PA: Nature's Cathedral

Hickory Run State Park is a sanctuary of natural beauty, offering numerous enchanting locations for your wedding day. Perhaps the most remarkable feature is the boulder field, a vast expanse of rocks left behind by the ice age, creating a unique and unforgettable backdrop. The park also boasts serene lakes, the captivating Hawks Falls waterfall, and a charming chapel for those who seek a more traditional ceremony. If you're a nature enthusiast or camping enthusiast, Hickory Run State Park is an excellent choice. After your ceremony, you can embark on an adventure along the park's meticulously maintained 40 miles of scenic trails, creating memories to last a lifetime.

Tall Timber Barn - Northeast PA: Rustic and Inviting Atmosphere

Nestled in a picturesque setting, Tall Timber Barn provides an idyllic backdrop for intimate gatherings, located in Northeast PA. This unique venue offers a truly rustic setting paired with great style throughout.  

Unlike your typical expansive barns, our space radiates warmth and coziness, offering an intimate ambiance that remains tangible. Drawing inspiration from the rustic charm of a lodge, Tall Timber Barn comes furnished to exude an inviting atmosphere. If you've always dreamed of getting married among the trees in a character-filled barn, this venue is for you! 

The Village at Houser Crossing - Wildcat Mountainside: Tranquile and Utterly Charming!



Nestled amidst the picturesque Wildcat Mountainside and along the tranquil Little Schuylkill River, our charming Historic Anthracite Cultural Landmark Village offers an unforgettable wedding stay experience that combines rustic beauty, luxury, and relaxation.

The property is not only an ideal place to stay but also a perfect backdrop for stunning wedding photos. Explore the outdoor lighted grove, take a stroll along the Little Schuylkill River, or capture breathtaking moments against the backdrop of the majestic Wildcat Mountainside. Your photos will be nothing short of magical!

There's no one-size-fits-all when it comes to your intimate I-do moment in the Lehigh Valley & Poconos area. 

Whether you're leaning toward a Minimony, considering a Micro Wedding, or feeling the allure of an Elopement, the most important thing is to choose what feels right for you.

At Christman Photography, we understand the importance of capturing unique moments beautifully, regardless of the intimate wedding option you choose. We're here to make sure your love shines through in every photograph. 

Here's what one of our Elopement couples had to say about working with us...

"My hubby and I planned our elopement and found the perfect spot to get married and we needed a photographer. From the first email and first call we knew that Christman Photography was who we wanted to shoot our special day. We loved working with them and they made our magical day even more magical. A dream to work with and the photos were honestly breath taking and beautiful. If you plan on Eloping we highly recommend! Especially if you are self uniting!" - Molly & Ken (see their stunning images here!)

Reach out to us today to discuss your intimate wedding photography needs and let's make your special day unforgettable. 

Your love deserves nothing less!