Prepare for Pushback

Not everyone might be thrilled you’re having an intimate wedding. Feelings might be hurt when you limit the guest list so severely, as it might go against expectations that friends and family members had that they would be invited to celebrate.

Approaching the subject with confidence is key.

“The more secure and confident a couple is when they drop this bomb on their family,” Ms. Tongg said, “the easier that they’ll take it.” She suggests sharing beautiful pictures of your wedding on social media to take the sting out of it for people who couldn’t attend. Once they see how private the ceremony was, she reasoned, people are more likely to understand why they weren’t invited.

Decide on Must-Haves

Every couple’s must-haves are different, but for a smaller wedding with a teensy budget, you should narrow down the essentials. Because I have a sweet tooth, my only must-have for my wedding was a custom cake from my favorite bakery. Mike’s only requirement was having a nonreligious ceremony, as I’m Jewish and he’s Catholic and he didn’t want to give the appearance of favoring one family’s traditions over another.

For other couples, their must-have can be a particular location that holds sentimental value, like the couple’s first date or first kiss.

“Consider a place that’s meaningful,” Ms. Brenizer said. She suggests scouting the location at the time of day you’re planning on getting married to see what the crowds are like.

Yes, You Should Still Create a Registry

“No matter what size or type of wedding you’re having, it’s always a good idea to register,” said Kathy McTigue, Bloomingdale’s director of The Registry. “Many couples that have microweddings organize less formal get-togethers and celebrations leading up to the wedding date, and their friends and family members may want to throw them parties as well. Many people will want to get gifts for these events.”

Ms. McTigue also recommended registering for enough gifts to allow those who attend to have a nice selection to choose from across a variety of price points.