A small wedding in Amsterdam offers couples a unique wedding experience to celebrate their love in an intimate and special way. With or without friends and family, you can have a good time. Who do you invite? And how do you plan a low-key wedding ceremony?
What is a small wedding? A small wedding is a personal celebration with 30 to 100 guests. An even smaller wedding typically has between 15 and 50 guests. Anything less than this is considered a micro, mini or elopement wedding. What does it cost? What is your small wedding budget?
The average wedding in Amsterdam costs between €15,000 and €25,000. However, if you’re on a stretched budget, it could be less. Plan a smaller celebration for as little as €5,000 (no honeymoon). Check out these 14 ideas for your small wedding in Amsterdam. Make it uniquely yours!
Small Wedding in Amsterdam – Essential Tips & Tricks
Tip 1• Dry Hire Venue
When planning a small wedding in Amsterdam, a dry wedding can be a cost-effective and flexible choice. One option is to hire a “dry wedding hire venue.” But what is a dry hire venue? It’s a ‘blank canvas’ space, such as a hall or room, that comes empty of furniture, tables, and chairs. This means you will need to arrange all the essentials for your small wedding in Amsterdam, including audio-visual equipment, catering, staff, an officiant, and decorations. Where should you start? First, find a suitable dry wedding space at www.trouwlocatie.nl. Additionally, look for setup assistance, event coordination, or consider hiring a Dutch wedding planner.
Tip 2• Dry Wedding
What is a dry wedding? A dry wedding is a ceremony, reception, and party where no alcohol is served. It is an ideal option for couples who do not drink alcohol, want to save money on an open bar, or prefer a small, intimate, non-alcoholic wedding event. An event without the complications of serving alcohol can be truly inspiring. There are no alcohol-induced best-man jokes, terrible one-liners, or hangovers. To guarantee an unforgettable wedding day; serve Mocktails, fresh juices, flavoured water and non-alcoholic champagnes and prosecco. A dry wedding is perfect for those planning a DIY and non-alcoholic small wedding in Amsterdam. Good luck!
Tip 3• Fewer guests less stress
Reduce your guest list! What do I mean? For couples working with a more modest budget, trim your small wedding in Amsterdam by inviting 30 to 50 guests. This smaller and intimate gathering allows for a more personalised experience. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the city, you can share meaningful moments with your closest friends and family. Invite everyone (within reason) to ensure complete marital bliss!
Tip 4• Intimate wedding planning
Make the most of your small wedding in Amsterdam by prioritizing quality time with family and friends. Use a comprehensive planning itinerary & spreadsheet to streamline your timings and preparations. You will find helpful suggestions for scheduling your ceremony and reception. Get creative with cost-effective ideas to make your special day uniquely yours. Focus on creating intimate moments, whether through personalised vows, shared activities, or small group celebrations. Treat your loved ones to a memorable wedding experience together.
Tip 5• Off-season small wedding
Why wait for the warmth of spring or the joy of summer to celebrate your love? Embrace the charm of an off-season small wedding in Amsterdam, where intimacy meets affordability. The months of January, February, March, October, and November are the most budget-friendly times to tie the knot. Let the crisp autumn air or the serene winter setting surround you as you create unforgettable memories with family and friends.
Tip 6• Micro wedding on a boat
Celebrate your special day with a low-key wedding ceremony, also known as a micro wedding, aboard a beautiful boat. It can take place between 1 PM and 8 PM and is perfect for up to 30-50 guests. And the best part is, you won’t have to refinance your mortgage to make it happen. In fact, I will be your celebrant for this exclusive event.
Tip 7• Small wedding in Amsterdam photographer
Capture the spirit of your low-key wedding ceremony. Just because you’ve chosen for a smaller celebration doesn’t mean the pictures have to be less exciting. Don’t compromise on photos and plan your first look and ceremony picutures. SAVING TIP: Book a photographer for 1 to 2 hours today!
Tip 8• Pinterest inspiration
Draw inspiration from a Pinterest board and begin pinning your vision for the perfect ‘petite wedding.’ Dedicate your time to discovering enchanting details that will make your intimate celebration uniquely yours. Explore a treasure trove of unique ideas that reflect your style and personality!
Tip 9• Planning app
If you’re thinking about an intimate celebration in Amsterdam with fewer than 50 guests, explore planning apps. These tech-savvy tools and engaging social media resources can help you create an unforgettable event. They will guide you through the planning process, making it as easy as possible.
Tip 10• Tiny wedding at 6pm
Save money on planning a smaller celebration in Amsterdam by scheduling your ceremony to start after 6 PM. An evening small wedding can significantly reduce expenses when hosting an event. It’s a cost-effective way to create a meaningful occasion without exceeding the budget. The money you save can be used for other wedding-related costs.
Tip 11• Guest-list wedding seating arrangement
Manage your small wedding in Amsterdam. Start with the guest list seating arrangement for the ceremony and place settings. This is the best way without hurting the feelings of family and friends. Reserve seats and or/rows at the wedding ceremony. So, where do you start? Categorise invitees into four groups. How do you do that? Use a tier guest list order of events: an A, B, C & D wedding guest list.
A-List | 1st row seating: These are the guests you really must invite to your small wedding in Amsterdam. This list should include your grandparents, closest family members, siblings and friends. These are the people who hold a special place in your heart.
B-List | 2nd row seating: Guests such as friends and close relatives, whom you want to invite to your wedding. This group consists of individuals you genuinely value but may not have the space or budget to accommodate at this time.
C-List | 3rd row seating: Guests such as workmates, your boss, and relatives you don’t see often can be invited to your wedding. However, be aware that you’re not obliged to invite those with whom you have no connection. Remember, this day is about celebrating love and commitment, so keep your priorities in mind.
D-List | 4th row seating: Neighbours & plus ones; It’s essential to prioritise inviting those who truly matter to you rather than feeling pressured to invite everyone. If your budget allows and you have additional funds for catering and the venue, consider adding someone from your D-list.
Tip 12• Small wedding in Amsterdam tips
Are you curious about how much you can save on your small wedding in Amsterdam? If you’re planning to marry in the Netherlands, you should first arrange a marriage or civil partnership in your country of residence, which typically costs between €50 and €300. Once you have obtained the necessary certificate, you can invite your day and evening guests to join your celebrant-led ceremony at your small wedding in Amsterdam.
Tip 13• Small Wedding Officiant Discounts
Planning a small wedding in Amsterdam? During the off-peak season, you could allocate 20% of your budget for the ceremony. For example, your wedding costs are 10,000 euros, so expect to pay 2,000 euros to cover the venue, music, and the officiant’s fees. Look for someone who offers discounts for smaller guest lists. Opt for a micro wedding; save 5% to 10% off the standard fees. What does a small wedding ceremony cost? For a 10 to 15 minute ceremony, the fee will range from €450 to €1,500. This includes the formal and personal wedding vows. Plus, the ring exchange, kiss and certificate of love and commitment.
Tip 14• Tiny wedding venue
Say “I do” during an intimate wedding in Amsterdam. This vibrant city features picturesque canals, stunning architecture, and excellent shopping—perfect for a small wedding planning ideas. Imagine a heartfelt ceremony surrounded by your loved ones, with a backdrop of blooming flowers, laughter, and smiles. Amsterdam is a charming destination that offers a wealth of captivating venues. Explore these delightful locations that truly capture the magic and romance of the city. Make your small wedding in Amsterdam uniquely yours.
Tip 15• Small Wedding in Amsterdam Gift Registry
Finally, manage costs for your small wedding in Amsterdam with a wedding gift registry. You can request cash/money instead of physical presents for your wedding. Create a little wedding ceremony gift list to outline your wishes. Clearly state what you will use their contribution toward: the venue decor, catering, or a honeymoon. This clarifies your intentions and makes your loved ones feel included in your special day. Send a wedding gift list.
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