4 Things to Know About Planning an Intimate Wedding in Sioux Falls
Planning Tips for a Small Wedding
If you're in the early stages of planning a small wedding, you might be feeling both excited and a little unsure of where to start—and that’s totally normal! An intimate wedding comes with a different kind of magic: fewer people, more meaningful moments, and a celebration that feels truly personal.
Whether you're dreaming of saying “I do” with just your closest loved ones or planning a laid-back day that reflects your style, I'm here to help. Intimate wedding days are some of my favorite days to shoot because they are planned with such intentionality. Plus, a smaller wedding makes it easier for couples to invest in what matters most to them (quality over quantity!), spend more time with their guests, and truly plan a personal celebration.
In this post, I’m sharing practical tips to make your intimate wedding in Sioux Falls feel thoughtful, beautiful, and completely you—from choosing the right venue to building a timeline that fits your day perfectly.
1. Small Wedding Guest List
One of the most meaningful parts of planning an intimate wedding is deciding who will be there to celebrate with you—but it can also be one of the hardest.
With a guest list of around 15 to 30 people, deciding who to invite often comes with a few tough conversations. It’s completely normal to feel a little guilt or hesitation, especially if you have friends or family who might be sensitive to not receiving an invitation.
However, remember that your wedding day is about you and your partner, and it’s okay to set boundaries that protect your peace and reflect your vision. Being clear, kind, and honest about your choice to keep things small can help those around you understand and support your decision.
2. Intimate Wedding Venues
When you're planning an intimate wedding, your venue sets the tone for the whole day—so choosing one that feels both cozy and intentional is key. You’ll want a space that comfortably fits your guest list without feeling too large or impersonal.
The beauty of a smaller guest count is that you have more flexibility to think outside the box when it comes to your venue. Instead of traditional venues with large ballrooms or a lot of square footage, consider creative alternatives like boutique hotels, chic restaurants, vacation rentals, or even your own backyard. Sentimental spaces—like a family cabin or the place where you got engaged—can add such a meaningful layer to your celebration.
Take care, however, to consider what your chosen venue space offers on-site and what you’ll need to bring in, especially for at-home or outdoor weddings. Things like seating, catering, and weather backup plans (hello, tent rentals!) are worth thinking through early.
If you’re local to Sioux Falls, a few standout spots for intimate weddings include Convolo, The Retreat by Blue Haven, or the cozy charm of Casetta.
3. Wedding Day Timeline
One of the best parts of planning an intimate wedding is how much flexibility you have when it comes to your timeline. Most smaller weddings fall somewhere between 4 to 8 hours of coverage, but it really depends on your vision and what matters most to you. We’ll work together to build a timeline that fits your day perfectly, without the pressure of sticking to a rigid schedule.
With fewer guests and a more relaxed pace, you’ll get to enjoy what so many couples wish they had more of: time. Time to be present with each other, time to connect with your people, and time to breathe it all in. There’s also plenty of space for creative portraits, quiet moments, and anything else you want to include. The beauty of a smaller celebration is in the quiet, intentional moments—and I’ll be by your side to capture them all.
4. Intimate Wedding Vendors
Even with a smaller guest list, choosing the right vendor team can make all the difference in creating a smooth, meaningful wedding day.
Here are a few recommendations or reminders:
Hiring a wedding planner—especially someone experienced with smaller, more intimate weddings—can help you save time, reduce stress, and make the most of your budget.
When it comes to choosing a wedding photographer, find someone whose style aligns with your vision and whose energy you enjoy (you’ll be spending a lot of the day together!).
For food or catering, think outside the box—food trucks, family-style meals, or even a coffee or cocktail truck can add a fun and personal twist.
Entertainment can also be more relaxed; a live musician, backyard games, or a cozy bonfire can create the perfect vibe for celebrating with your closest people.
Consider working with a florist who understands your style, whether you’re dreaming of full floral installs or keeping things minimal.
Choosing an officiant who feels right for you (whether it’s a pro or a close friend) will make your ceremony that much more special.
Professional hair and makeup can feel like a lovely treat, but if you’re going the DIY route, make sure to allow for plenty of time.
If you have guests traveling in, thoughtful accommodations—like a boutique hotel or a shared vacation rental—can make the whole experience even more memorable for everyone involved.
Intimate weddings may be smaller in size, but they’re big on meaning, emotion, and unforgettable moments. With a thoughtful guest list, the right setting, and a team you trust, you can create a wedding day that’s as relaxed as it is personal.
If this sounds like the kind of wedding experience you’re dreaming of, I’d love to help bring it to life through timeless, joyful imagery. Learn more about my wedding photography experience here or reach out to inquire about availability—I’d be honored to be part of your special day in Sioux Falls!
Hey! I’m Lynsey
I'm so glad you're here! As a wedding photographer, nothing lights me up more than walking my clients through the process of planning and documenting their wedding day. Take a look around and reach out with any questions. Cheers to your next chapter!