Ashley and Ethan wedding at The Oxbow Hotel in Eau Claire, Wisconsin was a celebration rooted in intention, connection, and a shared sense of home. With 23 guests in attendance, they thoughtfully chose a micro wedding so they could spend meaningful time not only with each other, but with every person present on their day.
They had heard from many married friends and family members that their wedding day went by in a blur, often without much time together. For Ashley and Ethan, that wasn’t the experience they wanted. Instead, they centered their decisions around how they wanted to feel: present, connected, and relaxed. That mindset guided everything from their guest list to the flow of the day.
Keeping the guest list small meant inviting only their immediate families and a close group of friends they considered their bridesmaids and groomsmen. Despite both coming from large extended families, their loved ones were supportive and respectful of their decision, allowing them to create a day that felt true to them.
Getting Ready
One of the most seamless parts of the day began the moment they woke up. All of their guests stayed on-site at The Oxbow Hotel, and Ashley and Ethan used their rooms as getting-ready spaces. Without the need to travel to hair and makeup or another venue, the morning felt calm and unrushed.
They spent this time alongside their closest people, easing into the day in a way that felt natural and grounded.
First Look + Private Vows
Before the ceremony, Ashley and Ethan chose to share a first look and exchange private vows. This moment gave them the opportunity to be fully present with each other before the day unfolded, creating space for something deeply personal before celebrating with their gues
Ceremony
In a break from more traditional formats, Ashley and Ethan walked down the aisle together, entering the ceremony side by side. They chose The Oxbow for their small wedding venue hosting both their ceremony and reception there surrounded by their closest family and friends.
Many of the most meaningful elements of the ceremony were created by the people closest to them. Ashley’s dad built the triangle ceremony arch using reclaimed wood from their family’s historic barn, adding a deeply personal layer to the setting.
Their ceremony music and first dance songs were performed live by Ashley’s sister and her partner. The ceremony itself was officiated by Ashley’s sibling, with readings shared by Ethan’s aunt and grandmother. Every part of the ceremony felt collaborative and rooted in family.
During the ceremony, Ashley and Ethan placed their written vows into a customized wooden box along with a bottle of wine they had chosen together. They planned to open it on their first anniversary.
Reception
The flow of the day continued effortlessly as guests transitioned into cocktail hour on the patio and around the bar at The Oxbow. The setting reflected the couple’s vision of vintage, moody, and simple—allowing the space itself to carry much of the aesthetic without the need for elaborate decor.
Dinner was held in the gallery, creating an intimate space for conversation and connection. Afterward, everyone returned to the patio to continue the celebration. Having multiple spaces within one location allowed each part of the day to feel distinct while still cohesive.
Ashley and Ethan had lived in Eau Claire for several years, and it was important for them to share the city they loved with their guests. Hosting everything at The Oxbow made that experience feel both personal and accessible.
Planning + Experience
Neither Ashley nor Ethan had attended a small wedding before, and one of the biggest surprises during planning was discovering just how many options were available. They explored everything from elopements to Airbnb venues to backyard tent setups before narrowing in on what felt right.
Planning the wedding themselves allowed them to stay closely connected to their vision. With a smaller guest count, they were able to DIY many elements and keep the process manageable. Support from The Oxbow team, including time spent with the event coordinator ahead of the wedding, helped bring everything together smoothly.
While they wondered if they might miss the experience of a larger wedding, that feeling never came. Looking back, they wouldn’t change a thing.
Advice for Planning a Micro Wedding
Ashley and Ethan’s advice for couples planning a small wedding is simple: focus on how you want to feel.
Let that guide your decisions first, rather than starting with what you want it to look like. A micro wedding creates space for unique experiences and possibilities that might not exist in a larger celebration. Taking time to explore different ideas and resources can open the door to options you may not have initially considered.
Vendor Team
Venue + Lodging: The Oxbow Hotel Photography: By Xee
Floral: Hive and Hollow Dinner + Dessert: The French Press Bridal Dress: David’s Bridal Dress Alterations: Stitched Up Groom’s Attire: Men’s Wearhouse Hair + Makeup: Mirror Mirror Salon
Join thousands of other couples planning a small wedding, destination wedding, or honeymoon.
✨ Get daily inspiration and planning tips. ✨ Ask questions and get answers from us and other wedding pros and couples who have been there. ✨ See how other couples are pulling off their dream wedding day and honeymoon.
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.
png.png)
.png)
