Why More Couples Are Searching for Small Wedding Packages

Why More Couples Are Searching for Small Wedding Packages

What Couples Are Really Searching For When They Google “Wedding”

Open Google.

Type in “wedding”.

You’ll see the usual stuff:

Wedding venues.

Wedding dress.

Wedding photographer.

Wedding packages.

Wedding checklist.

Big industry words. Big volume searches. Big business.

But here’s what’s interesting.

That’s not what couples are really looking for.

The Shift Is Happening Quietly

More and more couples are now searching for:

Small wedding ideas.

Elopement packages.

Micro wedding.

Intimate ceremony.

Affordable wedding packages.

Forest wedding location.

That shift isn’t random.

It tells a story.

Couples aren’t just searching for suppliers anymore.

They’re searching for relief.

What They’re Actually Asking

When someone types:

“Wedding venues”

“Wedding packages”

“Wedding photographer”

What they’re often really asking is:

Can we do this without the stress?

Can we keep it simple?

Can we make this about us?

They’re looking for:

Less stress.

Less expectation.

Less noise.

They don’t want a performance.

They don’t want a production.

They don’t want 120 people watching them say vows they barely had time to think about.

They want something that feels real.

You Don’t Have to Follow the Script

You don’t have to do it the way it’s always been done.

You don’t need the huge guest list.

You don’t need 12 months of pressure.

You don’t need to spend money just because it’s “expected.”

You just have to choose what feels right.

And for a growing number of couples, that means:

A forest ceremony.

A beach at sunset.

A small group of family.

Or just the two of you.

Simple. Intentional. Real.

Because the most powerful weddings aren’t the biggest ones.

They’re the ones that feel true.

Trending Elopements in South Australia

Trending Elopements in South Australia

Why More Couples Are Shifting Away from Traditional Weddings

South Australia is quietly becoming one of Australia’s most sought-after elopement destinations. And it’s not by accident.

Across the South Australia region — from the rolling vineyards of McLaren Vale and the charm of the Adelaide Hillsto the coastal cliffs and the gardens of Adelaide — couples are making a conscious decision to shift away from large, traditional weddings and towards something smaller, more meaningful, and far less overwhelming.

At KISS Package, we’re seeing it firsthand.

This isn’t just a trend. It’s a mindset change.


The Shift: Why Couples Are Choosing to Elope

1. Cost of Living Is Real

Let’s be honest — the cost of living in Australia has changed how people make decisions. Housing affordability, rising everyday expenses, and financial pressure are influencing wedding choices.

Instead of spending $40,000–$60,000 on a single day, many couples are investing in:

  • A deposit on a home

  • Travel experiences

  • Time off together

  • Or simply starting married life without debt

An elopement allows couples to celebrate their commitment without financial stress.


2. Less Pressure. More Meaning.

Traditional weddings often come with:

  • Family expectations

  • Guest list politics

  • Cultural pressure

  • “What will people think?”

Elopements remove the performance aspect. Couples can focus purely on each other.

We regularly hear:

“That felt calm.”

“I could actually breathe.”

“It felt like us.”

And that says everything.

 


3. South Australia Is Perfect for It

You don’t need to fly to Europe to have an incredible backdrop.

Within an hour of Adelaide you have:

  • Vineyards

  • Historic estates

  • Forests and waterfalls

  • Beaches

  • Private accommodation properties

South Australia offers variety without the chaos of bigger cities. It’s accessible, beautiful, and relaxed — which mirrors exactly what modern couples are looking for.


4. The Rise of Micro Weddings

Some couples still want a few guests — just not 120 of them.

Micro weddings (10–30 guests) are booming. They combine intimacy with atmosphere. Think:

  • A short ceremony

  • Beautiful photography

  • A long lunch or private dinner

  • Quality over quantity

It feels less like an event production and more like a meaningful gathering.



5. Intentional Over Impressive

There’s a noticeable cultural shift happening.

Couples are asking:

  • Are we doing this for us?

  • Or are we doing this to impress others?

Elopements are about intention. They strip things back to what actually matters — commitment, connection, and starting married life grounded.

The big reception can always happen later. Many couples are choosing a private ceremony now and celebrating with a larger party down the track.


How KISS Package Fits Into This Shift

At KISS Package, our focus has always been:

  • Simple

  • Meaningful

  • Low-overwhelm

  • Professionally curated

We combine celebrant, photography, and location guidance into one streamlined experience. Couples don’t need to manage ten suppliers or coordinate logistics alone.

It’s about removing stress — not removing significance.


What We’re Seeing for 2026 & Beyond

The trend is accelerating.

Bookings across Adelaide, McLaren Vale, and the Adelaide Hills are increasingly:

  • Weekday ceremonies

  • Sunset beach elopements

  • Winery-based intimate weddings

  • Private accommodation ceremonies

  • “Legals Only” midweek weddings

Couples want flexibility. They want authenticity. They want a day that feels calm, not chaotic.

And South Australia is quietly becoming a leader in this space.



Final Thoughts

Eloping isn’t about doing less.

It’s about doing what feels right.

The shift we’re witnessing isn’t just financial or practical — it’s emotional. Couples are choosing peace over pressure, meaning over magnitude, and experience over expectation.

And that’s not a trend.

That’s a movement.


If you’re considering eloping in South Australia and want something simple, beautiful, and genuinely you — explore more at:

👉 https://kisspackage.com.au

Because sometimes the most powerful weddings are the quietest ones.

Marry Now, Party Later

Marry Now, Party Later

In recent years, the phrase “Marry Now, Party Later” has become a rallying cry for couples eager to tie the knot without delay, yet unwilling to forgo a grand celebration. This trend, driven by both necessity and choice, has redefined the traditional wedding timeline, offering a blend of intimacy and anticipation that resonates with modern couples.

Marry Now, Party later

The Appeal of Marry Now, Party Later

The “Marry Now, Party Later” approach appeals to couples for several reasons:

Flexibility in Timing: Life doesn’t always align with our plans. Whether due to global events, personal circumstances, or simply a desire to be married sooner, many couples choose to exchange vows now and save the larger celebration for a later date.

Intimacy of Elopements and Micro Weddings: For many, the idea of an intimate ceremony is appealing. Fewer guests allow the couple to focus on the significance of the day without the pressures of hosting a large event. The immediate circle of family and friends present makes the moment even more special and personal.

Financial Benefits: Splitting the wedding into two events can ease financial pressures. Couples can have a modest ceremony now and save up for a more extravagant celebration when they’re ready.

Creative Freedom: With the pressure of a traditional timeline removed, couples have the freedom to plan a celebration that truly reflects their personalities. The party can be held at a unique venue, incorporate new trends, or even be a themed event that might not have been possible under traditional wedding constraints.

Planning a Marry Now, Party Later Wedding

If you’re considering this approach, here are some tips to make the process seamless:

Decide on the Ceremony Style: Whether you choose a simple courthouse ceremony, an elopement in a beautiful location, or a small micro wedding with close family and friends, ensure it reflects your style and values. KISS Package offers a variety of options tailored for intimate weddings, providing the perfect solution for couples who want to marry now and celebrate later.

Communicate with Your Guests: Let your loved ones know your plan. Send out announcements for your “Marry Now” event and provide a “Save the Date” for the upcoming party. This way, they can look forward to celebrating with you later.

Capture the Moment: Hire a photographer or videographer to document your intimate ceremony. These memories will be a great addition to the larger celebration later on.

Plan the Party with Intention: When the time comes to plan your celebration, think about what you want it to represent. Whether it’s a casual gathering or a grand affair, ensure it complements the journey you’ve been on as a couple.

The Emotional Impact

One of the most beautiful aspects of the “Marry Now, Party Later” trend is the opportunity for couples to reflect on their journey between the two events. By the time the celebration rolls around, the couple has had time to deepen their bond and share their married life with family and friends. The party becomes not just a celebration of the wedding day, but of the marriage itself.

“Marry Now, Party Later” is more than just a trend—it’s a reflection of the changing times and the evolving nature of love and commitment. It allows couples to focus on what truly matters: their relationship, their journey together, and the love they share. So, if you’re ready to say “I do” but want to save the dance floor for another day, remember that the most important thing is marrying the one you love.

The party can always wait.

For those interested in making the most of this trend, KISS Package offers a range of flexible options tailored to your needs. Explore our elopement & micro wedding packages or find the perfect preferred suppliers to make your “Marry Now, Party Later” experience truly unforgettable.

Wedding Seating Tips

Wedding Seating Tips

choosing wedding ceremony seating

Choosing Your Side: A Guide to Outdoor Wedding Seating

Bride on the right or left?

what if two brides or two grooms? 

Firstly, let’s talk about the wind.

Choosing your side at an outdoor wedding is more than just picking a comfy spot—it’s about considering the wind.

Yes, that breeze can be a real game-changer. If you’ve been to an outdoor wedding, you know the struggle of keeping your hair in place while the wind decides to do its thing. To avoid having your veil in your face or blocking your guests’ view, think about the wind direction when choosing where to stand.

The fix? Position the person with the longest hair so they’re facing into the wind. It might take a little planning and tweaking of the setup, but it’s worth it to keep everything looking and feeling just right on your big day.

choosing wedding ceremony seating

Choosing wedding ceremony seating

Now, let’s talk about personal preference.

While the wind direction is crucial for practical reasons, there’s also the matter of personal comfort and preference. Do you have a “good side” that you prefer to be photographed from? Or perhaps you have a particular angle that makes you feel most confident? Whatever the case may be, don’t be afraid to take your personal preferences into account when choosing your side at the ceremony. It’s your special day, and you deserve to feel comfortable and radiant from every angle.

And then there’s the matter of hair jewellery. Whether you’re rocking a stunning updo adorned with delicate pins or letting your locks flow freely with a floral crown, the placement of your hair jewellery can influence your choice of side. You’ll want to ensure that your accessories are showcased to their full potential, so take a moment to consider which side will allow them to shine brightest.

Last but certainly not least, let’s talk about family.

Traditionally, your family sits on your side, but consider giving them a prime spot opposite you and your partner so they can see your faces clearly during the ceremony. This way, you can see their faces and they can see yours—not just the back of your head. Their smiles, tears, and expressions of joy will add an extra layer of love and warmth to the occasion.

For same-sex couples.

This approach can be adapted to fit your unique dynamic. Whether you’re having a dual entrance or another personalized arrangement, the goal remains the same: ensuring that all your loved ones get the best view of your special moment. Think about how to best position your families so that each side has an optimal view of both partners. This way, you can see their faces and they can see yours, adding an extra layer of intimacy and connection to the ceremony. Their smiles, tears, and expressions of joy will contribute to the warmth and love that surrounds you on your big day, making it all the more memorable.

In the end, choosing your side at an outdoor wedding is a delicate balance of practicality, personal preference, and sentimentality. Whether you’re considering the direction of the wind, your best side for photos, the placement of your hair jewellery, or the visibility of your family, take the time to thoughtfully plan out your seating arrangements. After all, the love and happiness that surround you on your wedding day deserve nothing less than perfection.

Wedding Packages & Services 

KISS Package

Adelaide | South Australia

 

Say ‘I do’ to intimate weddings with our KISS package – Micro weddings and elopement specialists

Copyright © 2026 Divi. All Rights Reserved.

A Pear Orchard Wedding | Paracombe Premium Perry

A Pear Orchard Wedding | Paracombe Premium Perry

Colin & Tim

Paracombe Premium Perry

 

Paracombe Premium Perry Wedding

Wedding & Elopement Packages

Tim and Colin’s wedding at Paracombe Premium Perry

Set against the picturesque backdrop of vineyards and the pear orchard, their ceremony took place in an open grass area below the dam, offering panoramic views of natural beauty. One moment that will remain in my memory is when their daughter made her grand entrance, a surprise that left everyone in awe. Instead of the traditional procession, Tim and Colin appeared separately, each walking atop the dam wall before meeting in the middle, creating an image reminiscent of a wedding cake topper. As they walked hand in hand toward Penelope, their celebrant, for a heartfelt and emotional ceremony, the love and happiness radiating from them was truly palpable. 

 

Paracombe Premium Perry Wedding

Testimony:

“Coming across Glenn’s website and viewing his gallery of predominantly nature settings, we knew he was the right person for our pear orchard wedding.  Glenn was very accommodating and extremely easy to plan and deal with. Throughout the process, we had no concerns or worries about the photography aspect of our special day”

Paracombe Premium Perry Wedding

“Glenn arrived, and rapidly cast his experience and professional eye over the venue, whilst creating an ease and warm comfortability between us. He felt more than a photographer, he felt like a good friend we had known for years, as he kept us at ease and laughing throughout, even our teenager”

Paracombe Premium Perry Wedding

“He sent a few samples to us within 24 hours, of which the fantastic quality, composition, lighting, colours and clarity left us eagerly awaiting the final photos in the weeks to come.  We wholeheartedly recommend Glenn” – Colin & Tim. 

Paracombe Premium Perry Wedding
Paracombe Premium Perry Wedding

It was a privilege to witness and capture such a unique and beautiful moment of love and commitment. Tim and Colin’s wedding at Paracombe Premium Perry was an absolute joy to capture.

 

Wedding Package

Say ‘I do’ to intimate weddings with our KISS package – Micro weddings and elopement specialists

Copyright © 2026 Divi. All Rights Reserved.