What An Intimate Wedding Really Means: with Sydney Celebrant Oliver Thomson
Have you given thought to what a more intimate wedding could mean for you? Sydney based celebrant Oliver Thomson has conducted a multitude of intimate (micro) weddings, so we've asked him to guide us through what makes a smaller wedding ceremony just so special.
Words Mr Theodore
Image By Hayley Rafton
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Oliver, before we delve into the topic of Micro or Elopement wedding ceremonies with you, gives us a little insight into who you are and what you do?
Hi, I’m Oliver Thomson - a marriage celebrant and MC based in Sydney. I have been a celebrant since 2014 and decided to give it a go after going to one-too-many average ceremonies in my time.
I have a background in performing arts, and I noticed how amazingly those skills transferred over into being a celebrant. Hence, now I am able to deliver ceremonies that are very unique with a perfect balance of the sentiment and the joy that naturally emerges throughout ceremonies.
The micro wedding is becoming a popular option for many couples right across the globe, in your words, what is a micro wedding?
For a long long time, I have been a massive fan of the micro wedding. It is often called an elopement, but I think elopement has a connotation of secrecy or something sinister. But it’s not like that for most couples. Most couples don’t see the point in a lavish affair when what they really want is a handful of their favourite people to witness their union, celebrate and share a glass or two of bubbles.
Sydney Celebrant Oliver Thomson | Image By Hayley Rafton
Why has this style of wedding risen in popularity?
Prior to COVID-19, the couples that I would work with who wanted a style of wedding like this were not interested in the production factor that often comes with weddings. The idea to them of having an over-the-top display did not suit them. They may have been more reserved couples not interested in having the most expensive flowers and outfits, for example, to be able to hit their social media. Instead, a lot of the couples have preferred this style as it can be understated, intimate, free from distractions and incredibly personal.
When government restrictions put a stop to weddings, many couples were trying to postpone, but equally, I was contacted by a lot of couples that wanted a stripped-back version and a micro-wedding really suited them.
Over the years, I have had the absolute honour and privilege of being involved in so many micro-weddings. Some that have taken us on mountainous hikes with just a photographer and a videographer to some that have just been around a kitchen table with a bottle of champagne.
What are some things couples need to consider before deciding if a micro wedding is right from them?
I would suggest couples really work out what is important to them and what they want to achieve from a marriage ceremony. Apart from the obvious part; getting legally married, some couples might prefer a low-key, low-fuss celebration with just a few of their closest friends who can celebrate with them. If couples are after something intimate, cosy and usually a lot more cost-effective, then a micro-wedding could be the best idea.
Some couples are choosing to have a micro-wedding and then a celebration when limitations of gatherings have been restricted. Why not video the micro-wedding and play it back for all to watch at your 1-year wedding anniversary?
How does a Micro wedding differ from an elopement?
As mentioned, an elopement is usually just the couple and a pair of witnesses, traditionally done in secret. Still, I think there is not a lot of difference and it’s up to the couple to choose what is most suited to them.
I’m sure you’ve conducted many micro weddings as of late, what makes them extra special?
They’re intimate, less stressful, more focused on each other, and more relaxed. I love the idea of stripping back the production and ‘show’ of a wedding and bringing forward the most important aspect, the couple.
I feel many couples might think that a micro wedding can’t be as extravagant or as ‘Wow’ worthy as a larger wedding, is this the case?
This is most definitely not the case. The vibe and atmosphere that can be created with a micro-wedding is something that is unforgettable and can be difficult to achieve with 100 or more onlookers and the pressure of the day.
I have had couples from overseas who chose a micro-wedding to share with each other. They chose idyllic locations such as a beach, or under the Sydney Opera House to share their nuptials, and the connection and intimacy are just as strong, if not more. You’re also less limited with options post-ceremony. Some have had elaborate picnics, and others have dined around the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge. I even had one couple who decided to strip off and jump into the water as soon as they were married!
Images By Hayley Rafton
And finally, what are some elements you can bring to a micro wedding that you can’t to a larger, more traditional style of wedding?
The fact that there is less pressure and people to ‘please’, I have seen first-hand how couples create memorable moments with each other and their dearest through a micro-wedding.
Micro-weddings are less distracting and more simply focused on the couples.
If you want Oliver to help you say ‘I Do’ you can reach out to him directly below, or, find him on Mr Theodore.
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