Small wedding... But little family to speak of

Your wedding will be the same planning as any other wedding. so guest list, ceremony, dress, venue, suits, flowers, decor, dj, cake, entrances, songs etc etc. you need everything. first i would sit down with FH and make a rough guest list. you def have to invite his son... there is no question about that. he can fly him down and meet him at the airport terminal or have a airport staff bring him to your FH.

We are having a small wedding too, maybe 50 people. My first wedding was a total disaster too (common theme, it seems). My ex's father never even showed up-bit of a challenge since he was supposed to act as the witness, which is customary in French Canadian weddings.

My daughter is a bridesmaid and like you, my son will escort me (they are both adults). While I love the idea of your son standing with your fiance, he will need a legal witness, which means, he does need an adult at his side at some point, as someone mentioned above. Does he have any co-workers with whom he is comfortable enough to ask them to act as a witness ? Who does he talk to most often about issues (besides you) ?

I would agree with others, no seating plan, no "sides"...just allow things to flow as they flow (yes that's nerve wracking but sometimes needed). The idea of a simple cocktail-style reception is great too, avoids uneasy dynamics sitting through dinner and speeches or whatever.

This is YOUR day...do what feels right for you both and ignore any negative comments (unless they want to help you pay for things, their opinion is just that..an opinion - you decide if it's worth listening to).

You can have it all, 100%!

I'm also having a 30 guest wedding and while we're not having dancing, we're still having a luxurious evening meal with a cocktail reception just like any other reception. Our venue has rooms for smaller parties and would allow dj setup and dancing if we asked for it. The key is to find that place where you can have it all and still have just a private get-together.

Absolutely do ALLLL the wedding things you want! Size of the guest list does not matter!

I follow my florist on Instagram and shes always saying some of her most favourite weddings are the small, intimate ones with max 50 people. She loves doing florals in cozy restaurant venues, and making the day feel special for the couple.

You don't need a wedding party at all, but you do need 2 witnesses to sign the marriage license. Its a nice idea to have your son stand with your fiance, however, I don't think kids can be a legal signor. Doesn't have to be a best friend, or male, and there's no written rule that says the witness has to stand up with you.

I agree with what others are saying - you can have all the bells and whistles you'd like, no matter how many people are there. Your son can stand with your FH, but you will need someone to legally sign as a witness as well - but that can even be another guest.

1. It wouldn't look silly at all. If you want that big dress, the grand entrance, etc. - this is your wedding and you should do what makes the two of you happy. Just because there isn't as many people to see it happen doesn't mean it shouldn't happen.

2. What about having your son stand on his side? Otherwise maybe you could either have your kids sit down after walking down the aisle or just don't have anybody on his side. It doesn't have to be even on the sides.

We had a small wedding too of 72 guests of mostly family from my side making up on husbands side of small family and mutual friends and co workers. Its tough when family breaks things up due to their issues or lack of communication. I know this due to my fathers side that has strong personality within themselves.

Invite guests that will be there for you to celebrate your new start as a married couple on your day. Make it the best time to enjoy with close friends and family being present.

Grooms side of the wedding party can be someone that he is very close for years. Odd number each side if okay since its for a short time ceremony. If he stands alone and chooses that path, its fine too and just have a witness come up when needed to sign.

Its understandable if his son can't make it due to his ex being the way she is and uncompromising behaviour. He does have the right to have him there as his wish.