Grand or Intimate Wedding Venues:  The Ultimate Comparison You Need to Know

Weddings are highly social, from the days leading up to it until the afterparty. Different cultures conduct ceremonies uniquely.  For example, Filipino weddings traditionally take place in a grand wedding venue, such as churches and large reception halls. They usually involve a large number of guests and celebrations that can last a whole day or several. Meanwhile, other couples prefer smaller, intimate wedding venues like gardens or private beaches. They only invite people who they feel most comfortable sharing their special day with.

Couples may find it hard to decide between a grand wedding and an intimate wedding due to a number of factors. Below is an extensive comparison of the advantages, disadvantages, and things to consider when choosing a suitable wedding venue.

Every Couple’s Guide to Grand VS Intimate Wedding Venues

The Festivity of Grand Wedding Venues

Grand weddings are high-energy, lively, and typically involve a rockin’ dance floor. These types of weddings usually involve over 100 guests and require large venues that can accommodate an extensive guest list and elaborate decorations.

Advantages

1. Wide range of options for venues

Grand wedding venues are elegant and spacious. They also come in a variety of options. Choose from banquet halls, function halls, hotels, mansions, ballrooms, and more. 

2. Sophisticated decor

The larger the venue, the more decorations you will need. The couple can go all out with extravagant fixtures to fill the space. Create a lasting impression on your guests with tall floral arrangements, high ceilings, and fabulous centerpieces. 

3. Inclusivity

The great thing about grand wedding venues is that you can invite as many guests as they allow. What’s better than being surrounded by your loved ones on your special day as a couple? This also means you don’t have to worry about trimming down your guest list. An inclusive guest list lets you invite your extended family and coworkers to join in the celebration. The more, the merrier!

4. Party-like atmosphere

Not only does a larger audience create a party spirit, but it also lets the couple organize a detailed, extensive program to make everyone feel welcome. Incorporate live performances, games, and dance sessions in addition to the usual reception practices to make your wedding more dynamic and memorable.

5. Easier supply procurement

Bulk wedding suppliers usually allow negotiations for huge guest lists. You can cut back on costs with flexible suppliers and possibly get more affordable customization packages from them.

Disadvantages

1. Higher budget

Lavish celebrations aren’t cheap. Prepare a larger budget if you are planning to celebrate in a grand wedding venue. Aside from the place, the budget should also encompass expenses for decoration, food, and entertainment.

Live performances, for example, might require you to pay the talent fee and transportation of the artist. Special bouquets cost more than ordinary flowers. More guests also mean there should be enough food to fill everyone’s stomachs.

2. Extensive plannings

It’s important to set aside more time to plan a grand wedding. You will want to make sure everyone is entertained, that there are enough seats, and that everything goes as smoothly as possible. Choose a seasoned wedding planner and coordinate well with everyone involved.

3. Less quality time with guests

The size of a grand wedding venue can restrict the couple from interacting closely with their guests, preventing them from spending one-on-one quality time with loved ones. Alternatively, you can rely on a comprehensive program to keep your guests entertained, but this will still mean limited personal interactions with them.

Tips to Maximize Your Grand Wedding Venue

• Streamline the flow so your guests can navigate the place easily
• Create multiple seating areas for conversing and unwinding
• Incorporate entertainment to keep the energy up

The Comfort in Intimate Wedding Venues

Intimate weddings are personal and warm, usually involving a little over 50 guests or fewer. These kinds of weddings can be celebrated creatively in smaller venues, which can be tailored to the couple’s taste. 

Advantages

1. Unique venue options

Intimate wedding venues can be diverse. Restaurants, museums, art galleries, theaters, and lush gardens are only a few examples of intimate wedding venues. Apart from traditional venues like banquet halls, smaller venues can be paired with personalized activities that may come with the chosen place.

2. Endless customization possibilities

Couples can get as creative as they like with intimate weddings. Dinner party tables can be adorned with embroidered napkins. Ask your guests to come in themed costumes or prepare customized favors they can take home.

Preparing for fewer guests allows you to pay more attention to things that can make them smile along with you on your special day.

3. Private and cozy

With an intimate wedding venue, it’s a matter of quality over quantity. Enjoy the privacy of an intimate wedding. You may not be able to invite a large number of guests but you’ll be able to celebrate with your loved ones.  A close celebration like this requires you to cut down the guest list to the most cherished people in your life. Spouses who are easily overwhelmed by large crowds may favor smaller weddings.

4. Warm atmosphere

Gathering with close friends and family doesn’t have to get too festive. Intimate weddings celebrate love and shine a spotlight on you and your partner’s love story. Aside from that, you can spend time conversing with your guests, sharing with them interesting stories about you as a couple. Use this quality time to connect with your guests before the day ends.

5. Budget-friendly and less stressful

Intimate wedding venues are generally more affordable compared to grand venues. It is less stressful to deal with smaller venue expenses, which makes it easier to plan for other parts of your wedding, such as decoration, food, and other amenities.

Disadvantages

1. Reduction of guests

You may want to consider removing extended family you haven’t spoken to in a long time, or coworkers you no longer keep in touch with. Reduce your guests to you and your spouse-to-be’s closest friends and immediate family members instead.

2. Getting fewer gifts

Couples should expect fewer presents because of the small number of guests. On a positive note, their presence in a small gathering alone can be a great gift. Take this opportunity to interact with your guests and show your appreciation.

3. Paying fixed costs to suppliers

It can be difficult to negotiate with wedding caterers and suppliers if you don’t reach the minimum number of orders. You might have to avail of amenities and customization options at a fixed rate. In comparison, a bigger venue and guest count means more opportunities to bargain and get discounts.

Tips to Make the Most of Your Intimate Wedding Venue

• Curate your menu to offer a one-of-a-kind culinary experience for your guests
• Explore creative options in designing your venue
• Add personal touches to the tiny space
• Look for an all-in-one intimate wedding venue with discounts or packages

If you’re having trouble deciding between the two types of venues, keep in mind the following factors:

• Set a realistic budget
• Consider your relationship with your guests
• Prioritize your requirements for a venue

The right wedding planner or venue provider can help you with the above to cater to your best interests. No matter how many guests you invite or how large your wedding will be, it is best to agree on what reflects you as spouses. Consider the above comparisons to seamlessly navigate the planning stage, and hopefully, make your wedding day the best it can be.

Book Your Dream Wedding Venue in Tagaytay

Tagaytay undoubtedly holds some of the most romantic spots to get married. Whether you are going for a grand wedding or an intimate wedding venue, the rolling hills and stunning lakeview are surely an ideal backdrop for your celebration.

ALSO READ: Your Guide to Planning An Intimate Reception in Tagaytay

If you’re looking for intimate wedding venues in Tagaytay, Nurture Wellness Village offers lush gardens and vibrant green spaces that can be used as a grand wedding or intimate wedding venue. Connect with nature on your special day with our affordable wedding package. Treat yourself to a romantic stay in one of our rooms, perfect for newlyweds.

Talk to us today to make your romantic dreams come true!