Micro-wedding in Paris: 10 to 30 guests on the water

A micro-wedding generally brings together between 10 and 30 guests. On the Seine, a privately hired yacht or small boat lets you move seamlessly from a symbolic ceremony to cocktails and dinner in an intimate setting, with Paris as your backdrop. The budget is worked out per guest, and quality takes precedence over quantity.

This trend appeals to couples who prefer a heartfelt, carefully crafted occasion to a large reception, without giving up on elegance.

Yacht or small boat: which should you choose?

For 10 to 15 people, a yacht offers a very private atmosphere and smooth cruising. For 20 to 30 guests, a slightly larger boat allows everyone to sit comfortably for dinner. Our article on private boats for small groups goes through these layouts in detail.

A simple, flowing schedule

With fewer guests, the programme can be streamlined and highly personal:

• welcome and drinks on boarding;
• symbolic ceremony on deck, at sunset if possible;
• seated dinner with a short but refined menu;
• background music, perhaps a playlist chosen by the couple.

Working out the budget per guest

In a micro-wedding, the boat hire accounts for a larger share of the budget than it would for a big group, but it is split between fewer guests and offset by savings elsewhere: less decoration, a smaller catering order and no heavy sound system. Focus your spending on what leaves a lasting impression: the venue, the meal and the photography.

The details that make the difference

A photographer present throughout the evening, a seating plan reduced to one long table and understated floral decoration are enough to create a memorable atmosphere. For an overview, read our guide to getting married on a boat in Paris.