Intimate weddings

Most girls dream of a wedding day steeped in romance, with lots of special moments to share with all their family and friends. And for those who choose to have a big, traditional wedding, it can be the best party they've ever been to - as wonderful and memorable as they had imagined. But for others, the dream changes over the years and when the time comes to say "I do", they find they want something different. Nowadays, many brides to be are opting for a wedding that's much smaller than the traditional version, but just as perfectly formed.

However, cutting back on the numbers doesn't mean cutting back on the budget. It simply means making sure that only your very nearest and dearest are invited to share the day in exactly the kind of style you've always pictured. Keeping it an intimate affair has lots of advantages. For one thing, it brings some truly exquisite venues within reach, that might have been too small for a larger group. And if you've been dreaming of a reception featuring vintage champagne and the ultimate in fine dining, inviting a select few guests rather than many allows you to do this without stretching the budget too far.

It's becoming more fashionable too, to have a bijou wedding. As Alison Macnair, Events Manager at One Devonshire Gardens, in Glasgow says: "Nowadays people want to celebrate with only their close family and friends, instead of a having a bigger wedding with around 200-250 people - 30% of whom they may not even know and may not get the chance to meet during the day".

Zoe Edmonds, Assistant Manager at Castle Venlaw Hotel, in Peebles agrees: "We're getting lots of bookings for groups of around 6-15 people and we've recently done quite a few for groups as small as 4 or 6 people. It's a lot nicer to have a smaller wedding, just with everyone you really want to be there."

Reducing the numbers could cut back on the stress factor too, as there's much less to organise and more opportunity to relax on the day and really enjoy it, without worrying that you haven't had the chance to chat to each and every guest. As Lavinia Dowling, General Manager at 16th century Myres Castle in Fife says: "One of the main advantages of a smaller wedding is that the bride and groom get much more time on the day to spend it with their friends and family."

Finding the right setting for the smaller, more intimate wedding, is of course all important. It has to feel special and personal to you. Luckily Scotland is rich in romantic venues that are just perfect for the occasion. So, whether you've set your heart on a historic and atmospheric castle or a chic city address, there are plenty to choose from, proving small can be very beautiful indeed.