Small But Mighty: Top Tips for Planning a Micro Wedding

There’s something rather wonderful about a wedding where you genuinely know everyone in the room. No distant relatives you’ve not seen in years, no plus-ones you’ve never met—just the people who matter, gathered to celebrate in a way that feels entirely your own. That’s the beauty of a micro wedding, and it’s no surprise they’re becoming more popular than ever.

With a smaller guest list, you can focus on the details that truly matter.

Picture a long, laughter-filled meal at feasting tables under the beams of the barn, sharing incredible food made with locally grown ingredients. Or an alfresco ceremony with just your closest loved ones, surrounded by fields and birdsong. Fewer guests mean more freedom—whether that’s splashing out on a decadent tasting menu, personalising every place setting, or ensuring everyone has a front-row seat to the “I dos.”

A micro wedding doesn’t mean a quiet one. Whether it’s a lively drinks reception in the Lambing Shed, an acoustic set under the stars, or dancing into the night in the barn, there’s plenty of room to celebrate in style.

Thinking of keeping things small but spectacular? We’d love to help you plan your dream day at Long Barn. Get in touch and let’s bring your vision to life. But for now, here are some tips on planning a micro wedding at Long Barn (or anywhere else).

Top Tips for Planning a Micro Wedding at Long Barn

DO:

✔ Make the most of the space – Just because your guest list is small doesn’t mean the celebration has to be! Use the different areas of Long Barn—say your vows in the barn, enjoy drinks and canapés in the Lambing Shed, and have a relaxed al fresco feast on the lawn before dancing the night away inside.

✔ Create a bespoke wedding menu – With fewer guests, you can focus on quality over quantity. Work with Orchard Kitchen to craft a farm-to-table menu, whether it’s a multi-course feast, sharing platters, or an indulgent tasting menu.

✔ Personalise every detail – A micro wedding allows for more bespoke touches. Handwritten place cards, individual wedding favours inspired by Monmouthshire (like locally made honey or Welsh cakes), or a completely tailored ceremony all make the day feel even more special.

✔ Choose statement décor – A smaller guest list means you can really go big on styling. Think luxurious floral installations over the barn doors, a candlelit feasting table, or even a suspended floral chandelier above the dance floor.

✔ Make a weekend of it – Turn your wedding into a countryside retreat. With on-site accommodation and plenty of space for a pre-wedding dinner, a post-wedding brunch, or even a relaxed Sunday countryside walk with guests, Long Barn is ideal for a whole weekend of celebrations.

DON’T:

✖ Feel like you have to ‘fill’ the space – A micro wedding doesn’t mean you need to spread things out. Embrace the intimacy by creating cosy dining layouts, using soft lighting, and making the barn feel warm and inviting.

✖ Stick to a rigid format – With a smaller wedding, you have more flexibility. You could start later in the afternoon, have a long, relaxed dinner, or even skip traditional elements like a first dance or speeches if they don’t suit you.

✖ Forget about entertainment – Fewer guests don’t mean less fun! Acoustic music in the Lambing Shed, a cosy firepit with marshmallows, or an open bar with personalised cocktails can keep the atmosphere lively.

✖ Overcomplicate things – The beauty of a micro wedding at Long Barn is its effortless charm. Keep it simple, natural, and reflective of your personality—whether that means wildflowers on the tables, homemade decorations, or a ceremony that feels truly you.

Want to see what a Long Barn wedding could look like? We’re hosting a Wedding Fair and Farm Open Day at Humble by Nature this May —come and explore the venue, meet our team, and start planning your dream day. Entry is free, RSVP here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/long-barn-wedding-fair-open-day-tickets-1237732393909?aff=oddtdtcreator