Why Fully Inclusive Micro Weddings are the Best Kept Secret for Overwhelmed Couples Planning Their Big Day

Let’s be real: wedding planning can sometimes feel like you’re trying to put out a thousand tiny fires while balancing on a tightrope, right? For couples who just want a day that’s simple, fun, and actually enjoyable without getting lost in a maze of logistics, here’s a little secret—you don’t have to go big to have a magical wedding day.

In fact, I’m here to make the case for micro weddings and small wedding packages. They’re not just for couples who want to save some cash (although that’s a major perk). They’re for couples who value the experience over the posh production, who’d rather hang out with their favourite people than stress about managing 200+ guests. If that sounds like you, read on...

All the FancyFeels, None of the Stress

Look, big weddings are great, I love them! They’re a big party, they’re a big punch of fabulousness. They’re what so many couples dream of.

But for a lot of couples, the idea of corralling hundreds of people, trying to make small talk with distant relatives, and coordinating an army of vendors can feel like, well, a headache in a tulle-wrapped package. If that’s you, it might be time to go micro.

A small wedding doesn’t mean skimping on the good stuff. You still get all the beauty and elegance, just minus the chaos. At wedding venues like The Olive Grove at Forresters Beach on the Central Coast, their small wedding package gives you everything you need for a day that’s all about you and your closest people. We’re talking exclusive use of their beautiful Grand Ballroom, canapés, drinks, and an absolutely exquisite long lunch prepared by their amazing in-house chef. All of this without needing a second mortgage or a wedding spreadsheet that gives you hives.

It’s like having all the best bits of a big wedding—without the stuff that makes you want to tear your hair out.

Luxe Without the Hefty Price Tag

Small wedding? Yes. But we’re not talking backyard barbecue vibes here (although I can help you with that too).

If you think micro weddings mean cutting corners, I’m here to set the record straight. Smaller weddings can still feel luxurious—trust me. At The Olive Grove, for example, their small wedding packages mean you get private access to a gorgeous courtyard for your ceremony (hello, stunning wedding photos), followed by drinks, a two-course gourmet meal, and a five-hour beverage package that includes all the good stuff (yes, I’m talking about wine and craft beer).

And, because we love an all-inclusive moment, they’ve also got the wedding cake sorted—yep, that’s right, no late-night panic about picking flavours or finding a bakery. It’s all done for you. The best part? You’re getting all these luxe perks but without having to sell a kidney to pay for it because they’ve found a way to collaborate with the best local wedding vendors (ahem, if I do say so myself) to offer their exceptional services during the week. And to be honest, that’s a much more exclusive wedding experience to make memories from isn’t it?!

A Central Coast wedding can still have that wow factor while keeping things intimate and budget-friendly. It packs a personal punch that makes it feel fancy, but without all the posh fluff.

Small Wed dings, Big Fun (Less Worry, More Wine)

If you just want to enjoy your day and not worry about the details and the micromanaging of every candle and every minute on the runsheet, then that’s what a good fully inclusive micro wedding is designed to do—let you kick back and enjoy the moment, instead of sweating the details.

I’m a big fan of a long lunch. That’s why I LOVE the idea of starting the wedding day with a relaxed courtyard ceremony at 11am (no rushing around at 7am to get ready - well, you’ll probs be in the makeup seat), followed by drinks and canapés. The vibe? Laid-back luxury, with everyone chatting, laughing, and just having a good time. Then, it’s on to a long, leisurely gourmet lunch—no rubber chicken or rushed service, just delicious food with your nearest and dearest in their ballroom or something more intimate for a small group in the Captain’s Table. And let’s not forget the cake, served up as part of your dessert, because who doesn’t love cake?

Oh, and if you’re worried about dealing with a zillion different vendors, don’t be. These packages have it all—celebrant included (if you’ve read this far, yes, you have the option of me!), plus they can include photography, a live musician, and even a night’s accommodation with champagne to cap off the day. Basically, the only thing you’ll need to stress about is whether you’ll make it to breakfast the next morning after all that fun.

Look, I’m not here to bash big weddings—I absolutely love those too! But if you’re a couple that wants to focus more on the heart of the day and less on the “let’s make this a festival of us” logistics, then a small wedding for about 50 people or a micro for about 20 might just be your saving grace.

And the best part? There’s no rule saying you can’t have all the beauty and elegance of a big wedding—just in a more intimate package. The Olive Grove’s small wedding package is proof that you can have a stunning Central Coast wedding that feels luxurious, personal, and oh-so-fun, without the overwhelm.

So, if you’re leaning toward something a little more laid-back but still totally stunning, it might be time to give the whole micro wedding thing a whirl.

Ready to Ditch the Wedding Overwhelm?

If you’re tired of feeling like wedding planning is running your life, maybe it’s time to switch gears. A fully inclusive micro wedding gives you the best of both worlds—style, elegance, and zero stress. The Olive Grove at Forresters Beach has all the pieces lined up for you—so all you have to do is show up, enjoy the day, and maybe have a few extra glasses of bubbly.

Sound good? Get in touch with the team at the Olive Grove or check if I’m available on your dream date and let’s start planning the easiest, most beautiful day ever.

Images in the gallery below from Jacob Hughes Creative, Ben Newnam Photography and Kate Olivia Photo