How to Host a Micro Reception Without Macro Drama

Photo by Mad Magic Photography.

So, you’ve decided to elope. You’ve planned a meaningful ceremony. Maybe it'll take place on a mountaintop, in a forest clearing, or in a beautiful conservatory.

But now comes the big question couples often ask:
“Can you have a reception if you elope?”

Yes. Yes, you can!

Elopements aren’t about following rules! They’re about creating your own. A post-elopement reception allows you to keep the intimacy of your elopement and still celebrate with your loved ones.

Whether you want a laid-back backyard gathering or a luxe dinner party, there’s no “right way” to do it. It’s your marriage, your celebration, your rules.

Why Couples Choose Post-Elopement Receptions

A micro reception gives couples the best of both worlds: a stress-free elopement day centred on their love, followed by a joyful celebration with friends and family.

• Ceremony first, Stress second. You get the quiet, intentional moment to say your vows, just you two, without the pressure of guests or timelines.

• Flexibility in timing. Celebrate immediately afterward, the next day, or even months later when schedules and weather align.

• Meaningful connection over performance. No massive guest lists. No “forcing it”. Just meals, hugs, laughter, and stories with people who matter most to you.

• Budget control. Smaller numbers mean you can splurge on a few key things (food, decor, ambiance) rather than trying to stretch for a big show.

Since this is a micro reception, it can feel just as beautiful, and way less overwhelming. 

Photo by Mad Magic Photography.

When to Host Your Post-Elopement Celebration

Your timing is totally flexible! Here are common options couples choose: 

• Same evening: Ideal when your ceremony site is close and guests can follow you to dinner.

• Next day: Gives space between the two events so you can “reset” and rest.

• Weeks or months later: Helpful when guests travel internationally or need time to schedule.

• On your first anniversary: A romantic, celebratory way to relive the vows and share with people you couldn’t then.

Many couples prefer separating their elopement and reception. It gives them time to be fully present during their ceremony, then soak up all the hugs, laughter, and good food without worrying about the rest of the night.

Who to Invite (And Who You Don’t Have To)

When it comes to your elopement reception guest list, less is often more.

• Invite those who truly celebrate you! People who bring joy, not drama.

• Watch your budget: fewer people = more financial freedom.

• Don’t feel pressured to invite anyone who might bring unnecessary stress or drama.

With a micro reception, you can go deeper into the experience. More meaningful toasts, more connection, more attention to your people.

Photography by Chelsea Abram Photography.

Celebrating Your Elopement Your Way: Venue & Style Ideas

Your post-elopement celebration can be as laid-back or as elegant as you want! You’ve got options. Here are some ideas to spark your imagination:

• A Relaxing Resort Stay – Book out a cozy lodge, boutique hotel, or resort where you and your loved ones can relax, celebrate, and make a weekend of it.
  Pro tip: Hire a private chef to cook a meal for you!

• Casual Beach Picnic – Have everyone bring their blankets and some good food so you can gather on the beach and soak in the sunset with your favourite people.

• Backyard or At-Home Gathering – Perfect for couples who love a warm, personal vibe. String lights, good music, and great company go a long way.
  Pro tip: Hire a private musician for a couple of hours! It really elevates your dinner experience!

• Airbnb or VRBO Weekend – Rent a cabin, lake house, or mountain retreat where everyone can stay together and celebrate at your own pace.

• Traditional Reception-Style Celebration – There are some wedding venues that will allow you to host a reception without a ceremony, so you can elope first and still have a party later.

• Group Camping Adventure – For the outdoorsy families, imagine celebrating your marriage around a campfire in the mountains with your favourite people.

No matter what you choose, your celebration should feel like you. Whether it’s a five-course dinner or s’mores around a fire, it’s about creating memories with the people who matter most.

Photography by Chelsea Abram Photography.

Guest Flow, Travel, & Timing

To keep your reception smooth and enjoyable: 

• Build in buffer time between ceremony and reception (especially for travel, outfit changes, photos).

• Be realistic about travel distances for guests who may not know your terrain.

• Communicate clearly with your guests & vendors ahead of time (maps, arrival times, etc.).

• If your guests are travelling, consider putting them in lodging near the reception site to reduce transit.

• Use “welcome kits” or signage to help flow, especially if people are arriving individually.

Want a few real-life examples from past couples? I’d love to share how others made this super smooth! Just reach out.

Real Cost Breakdowns & Simplification Tips

Let’s talk numbers (because no one likes a surprise on their invoice):

• Restaurant buyouts can range from $50–$200+ per guest, depending on food/bev minimums.

• Rental homes often allow hosting with extra fees, but need porta-potties, catering, and rentals.

• Traditional venues may have flat rates, minimum headcounts, or staffing charges.

Where to simplify: skip favours, limit decor, reuse florals, or opt for family-style menus.
Where to splurge: comfort, ambiance, great food, and photography.

Want to see sample budgets from real couples? I’m happy to walk you through what others spent, and where they saved.

Photography by Chelsea Abram Photography.

DIY or Planner Support: You Choose

Many of my couples do plan their post-elopement celebrations entirely on their own. It’s absolutely doable! A micro reception is much simpler to coordinate than a full wedding day, especially if you’re keeping it casual or celebrating close to home.

If you’re planning from outside the province or internationally, or if you simply want someone else to handle the logistics, I love stepping in to help! Expanding the scope of planning support means I can assist with things like:

• Sourcing and booking venues or accommodations

• Coordinating travel timelines for you and your guests

• Streamlining vendor communication and logistics

• Creating a smooth, guest-friendly flow for the day

This kind of extra support can make a huge difference for couples who want to fully relax and enjoy their celebration without managing all the moving parts.

Photo by Mad Magic Photography.

Creating an Elopement Celebration That’s Uniquely You!

Your elopement deserves to be celebrated in a way that feels like your love story. Whether your reception is cozy or elaborate, big or tiny, it should reflect your pace, your people, and your style.

You absolutely can host a reception without it becoming a whole thing. And I’ll help you plan it, so you get to show up (not stress).

Planning your own wildly intimate elopement in British Columbia? At Sea to Sky Elopements, we help couples ditch tradition and design wedding days that actually feel like them — bold, beautiful, and deeply intentional. From Squamish forests to misty coastlines, we handle the details so you can stay grounded in the moment. See more real BC elopements and get inspired for your own.

Ready to start planning? Get in touch today.