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Elegant Micro Weddings & Elopements: Budget-Friendly Ideas

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Bride in blue holding eucalyptus bouquet earrings view

In these uncertain times, with so many larger weddings being put on hold, micro weddings and elopements are more popular than ever. A simple ceremony with just the two of you, or a few of your closest family and friends, is a wonderful alternative to celebrate in a safe, stress-free, and intimate way. 

Keep scrolling to see all of the beautiful photos by Adrienne GundeAdrienne also planned every detail and the eucalyptus bouquet was from Etsy by Dusty and Daisy and the the two-piece dress was put together with a cami from Urban Outfitters and a tulle skirt is from Amazon. You can see all the images in the full gallery. Read more from Adrienne about how to put together an elegant elopement for less than you think.

The Inspiration

Bride in flowing grey dress at oceanside holding bouquet

From this idea was born this inspirational shoot – that you could still have a beautiful and elegant look and ceremony with minimal cost and effort. In these uncertain times, the emphasis was on finding budget-friendly and easily accessible items.

Bride holding eucalyptus bouquet, ocean view

The Dress

Smiling bride in grey dress holds eucalyptus bouquet

Everything was purchased online and delivered within a week. The “dress” is actually a top and skirt purchased separately. This can be perfect in a time when dress fittings are difficult to schedule and minimizes the stress of a dress ordered online not fitting perfectly (the skirt is elastic and oh so comfortable!). It also was the perfect budget-friendly option with both pieces totaling just about $100. 

Elegant rose gold crystal bridal earringsElegant woman wearing long crystal earrings

To continue the simple look, we went with fresh eucalyptus leaves as a bouquet. They’re from Etsy and also purchased easily online from a wonderful local vendor. The earrings provided a glamorous focal point and were perhaps the biggest steal at just $9! All these pieces were chosen to give the look a whimsical and dreamy feel. 

Bride in grey tulle gown by the sea with flowers

The Location

Woman in a long grey tulle skirt overlooking ocean

The location was chosen with simplicity and ease in mind as well. It was a beautiful public cliffside in southern California, where a couple could have a quick pop-up ceremony and portraits without compromising a stunning backdrop. Throughout the years I’ve photographed many large and lively weddings and they’re always so fun and beautiful, but we know with the current restrictions and concerns that may not be possible. 

Bride in gray tulle gown overlooking ocean

The goal of this shoot was to provide thoughtful inspiration for something that could be put together quickly and easily and still feel elegant and meaningful. As we’re adjusting and adapting at this time, an effortless and stress-free elopement is a wonderful option, really giving you the opportunity to focus on the most important thing, a celebration of your love.

Wedding Photographers: Adrienne Gunde Photography
Flowers: Dusty and Daisy
Jewelry: Amazon
Model: Clara Wang
Tulle Skirt: Amazon
White cami: Urban Outfitters

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