COVID has affected countless couples planning their 2020 nuptials, but many are fueling a fresh trend in the bridal industry: the “micro wedding” or the “minimony.” Because some level of gathering restrictions will likely remain in place through the end of the year, rather than wait, couples are scaling to smaller, more intimate wedding celebrations at a safe social distance and inviting additional guests to join virtually.
These small-scale affairs have been gaining popularity both in general and at The Benson Hotel, and couples are finding that micro weddings can be advantageous. The inherent intimacy of small weddings allows couples to infuse more personal elements into the day and have more meaningful moments with each guest. A more focused guest list can afford more creativity, too, such as plating an individual mini cake or special dessert for each guest rather than serving slices of a tiered wedding cake. With fewer guests, couples can also splurge on the things that matter to them, whether that’s a multi-course, chef-made meal or an ornately woven flower crown for the bride.
With technology revolutionizing the way we plan and attend events, couples can live-stream the ceremony for loved ones who aren’t attending, or set up a web camera at the reception so guests can virtually dance along. Advance gift boxes for the streaming guests can include goodies such as champagne splits, cake, a Spotify playlist, and a link to the ceremony’s live stream on the big day. As for the “minimony” itself, we make the process seamless at The Benson.
Celebrations, gatherings, food, and drinks have always been keystones of family and community, and a part of The Benson’s foundation for more than a century. Emerging from necessity in the wake of COVID-19, and already an increasingly popular trend, The Benson’s all-inclusive Micro Wedding Packages offer flexibility, affordability, and creativity to help celebrate life’s most memorable moments in a new, inventive way.
Starting at just $750 for a ceremony of up to 24 guests, couples can block four hours of event time in our Crystal or Mayfair Ballroom or the London Grill, which includes an hour of prep time for set-up and a hospitality suite to get ready. Furnishings include gold chargers, votive candle centerpieces, a linen choice of black, white or ivory, guest tables and banquet chairs, a welcome toast and more. Also included in each Micro Wedding Package is an overnight stay in a junior suite for the bridal couple. Additional food and beverage minimums do apply and all fees are subject to a 20 percent service charge. The Benson’s Wedding Specialist Stephanie Wood is ready to provide details and date availabilities, so let those Micro Wedding bells ring! After all, what matters most is love. Learn more about weddings at The Benson here or call Stephanie at 503.219.6712.
The Benson, a historic downtown Portland hotel, has long catered to celebrities, CEOs, dignitaries and every U.S. president since William H. Taft. It offers guests 287 tastefully appointed guest rooms, including a variety of suites, 18,000 square feet of meeting space and abundant guest amenities. Whether you are traveling for pleasure or business, The Benson offers comfort, luxury and proximity to all Portland has to offer.
