From Birthday Bash to Tea Time

There I sat at the round, pink-draped banquet table surrounded by 80 other people at similar round tables.  Peppa pig cut-outs were tucked amidst delicate floral centerpieces and balloons danced overhead.  All I could think was what in hot hell is happening? 

It was my first time as a guest at a birthday party for a 5-year-old in Mexico, and I was learning a valuable lesson in Mexican culture. 

When it was my kiddo’s turn, I quickly adapted to the social rhythm of these all-out-bashes, although my family back home could never quite comprehend the idea of an 80-guest party for my little tot.   It’s just how things are done here, I awkwardly reasoned.

Therefore, I wasn’t a bit sad when my daughter turned seven, declared boys were yucky, and opted for a tea party event with just five friends.  In fact, it marked the moment I fell in love with an intimate, curated celebration. 

I immediately got to work, planning little heart-shaped tea sandwiches, a jewelry box painting activity, summer hats for the girls.  My heart swooned as I discovered that, when I didn’t need to feed 80 people, my investment went so much further. 

After all was said and done, it was the Tea Party of the year, and everyone (including myself) went home with a smile. From that moment on, I embraced the concept of providing a high-quality experience for a small, intimate guest list. 

That concept is as true with a wedding as it is with a tea party.

From Tea Time to Intimate I Do’s

A smaller, intimate wedding presents a unique opportunity to really pamper the guests that attend.  Here are a few of my favorite ideas to make an intimate wedding oh-so-incredible:

• First, create welcome bags that go beyond the typical trinkets and delight your loved ones with a thoughtful care package that shows you are truly grateful they are present.
• Choose a cozy venue setting.  You won’t need a massive space, so select a venue that feels intimate and incredible.

• Incorporate magical decor and curated details that enhance the experience.
• Invest in live performances – musicians, dancers or a live cooking experience will keep the energy high and provide a unique opportunity for guests to participate in the destination’s culture.
• Spend quality time with every guest.  You have the luxury of time. Show your gratitude for their presence; write a personal thank you note to each of them.  Create moments and memories. 

It sounds fantastic, right?  It will be, I promise.

But what should you do with all those “leftover” guests back home?

First, be creative. There aren’t strict rules. Give them an opportunity to celebrate and honor your love. (Don’t worry about perfecting the details or serving heart-shaped tea sandwiches to them all).  Host a backyard picnic!  Throw a pool party or hold a drop-by cocktail hour at your home.  Don’t forget the chips, salsa and margaritas!