There’s something so fun about a micro wedding: you get to throw out the rulebook and keep the parts that actually matter to you. That’s exactly what Bridget and David did for their Philadelphia wedding. With just 17 guests, they created a day that felt colorful, eclectic, community-focused, and completely authentic to who they are.
From getting ready together to a self-uniting ceremony led by their siblings, every part of the day felt intentional without feeling overly traditional. And it all took place at Vaux Studio, a premier Philadelphia micro wedding venue and part of the microWED Collective vendor community.
Why Get Ready Separately?
Who says you have to? One of the best things about having a smaller wedding is that you can forget about a lot of the “shoulds” and do what actually feels right. Bridget and David got ready off-site before arriving together at Vaux Studio to finish getting dressed and have their first look. It’s a small change from the traditional wedding timeline, but that’s exactly what makes micro weddings so fun. You have the freedom to build a day around your relationship instead of following a set formula.
Vaux Studio Was the Perfect Fit
The couple wanted a space that felt as unique as they did, and Vaux Studio delivered. As both the venue and florist, the team helped create a colorful, eclectic setting that felt anything but cookie-cutter. The intimate space was perfect for their 17-person celebration, giving everyone the chance to actually be part of the day instead of getting lost in a crowd.
Looking for a micro wedding venue that feels a little different? The microWED Collective has plenty of unique spaces and vendors to help you create a celebration that feels like you.
The Seating Cards Had a Secret
The little details at this wedding were seriously personal. Each guest received a handwritten envelope with a personalized note inside, making their seating card feel more like a tiny love letter. The couple also surprised guests with framed collage photos celebrating the history they shared together.
It was such a good reminder that when you have a smaller guest list, you can put more thought into the people who are actually there. Instead of trying to impress a room full of people, Bridget and David made sure their closest friends and family knew exactly how much they meant to them.
A Ceremony That Started and Ended Together
Bridget and David skipped the traditional processional and walked down the aisle together, which felt like the perfect choice for a couple who wanted their wedding to reflect their partnership from start to finish.
Their siblings also played a huge role in the ceremony. Bridget’s brother and David’s sister led their self-uniting ceremony and signed their marriage certificate as witnesses. David’s father later shared a traditional Korean prayer, creating space for his culture while still leaving behind traditions that didn’t feel authentic to them.
After the ceremony, the couple headed to PHS Pop Up Garden at South Street for a more casual celebration. It was the perfect way to keep the day going with their favorite people—and exactly the kind of wedding that proves small doesn't have to mean simple.
Reception Venue: PHS Pop Up Garden at South Street
Photography: Connie Chen Photography
Florals: Vaux Studio
Treats: Machine Shop Philly
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Jennie LaVanchy is a former micro wedding bride, and she now supports countless couples in planning their own intimate celebrations through her blog, featuring real micro wedding stories and a curated vendor directory. Her practical advice and firsthand experience make her a go-to resource for those seeking to create memorable and meaningful micro weddings.
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