In this episode of Cut the Cake, we dive into a topic that keeps circling back—micro weddings. These intimate celebrations may be small in guest count, but they’re big on impact. Whether you’re planning one, considering scaling back your guest list, or just curious about the trend, we’re unpacking what makes a micro wedding so different from a standard wedding—or an elopement.

We share what we’ve seen on the ground—from logistics to design—and how these beautifully intentional events can still be rich in experience (without the huge price tag). You’ll hear our thoughts on how to navigate costs, guest expectations, and the misconception that smaller means simpler (hint: it doesn’t always).

From the kinds of venues that suit a micro wedding, to how your run sheet might shift, to the creative decisions couples are making with more breathing room in the budget—we cover it all. Plus, we chat through what’s worth investing in, and when having a planner is still totally worth it.

And of course, we share some personal stories that prove micro weddings aren’t just a budget option—they’re a vibe all their own. For couples wanting an intimate, immersive, and incredibly memorable day, this one's for you.

Key Takeaways:

• Micro weddings are not elopements—they typically involve up to 30 guests and still include traditional elements, but with more space for personalisation.
• Scaling back doesn’t mean scaling down on experience—you can create more impact per guest by reworking your budget intentionally.
• Unique venues like private homes, boutique stays, or restaurant takeovers are perfect for micro weddings and often create an unforgettable guest experience.
• Planning still matters—especially if you want the day to feel seamless (and not like a last-minute dinner party).
• Intimacy doesn’t make it less special—in fact, the smaller guest list often makes for deeper connections and a more relaxed vibe.

About Melanie
Mellyrain Creative is a wedding planning and styling company and we specialize in designing luxe countryside weddings across regional Victoria. As the head wedding planner and stylist at Mellyrain Creative, her team continues to grow and assist in styling design as well as wedding day coordination and execution of styling set ups at weddings all over Victoria. Prior to weddings Mel worked in sport and entertainment events in Melbourne and she is obsessed with her golden retriever pup Duncan who you’ll see on the gram from time to time. Mel love's to call country Victoria her happy place so when she's not working, you’ll still find me exploring new places, mostly something with mountains as a backdrop.

instagram.com/mellyraincreative
Contact Mel: mellyrain.com.au/contact

About Tania
Tania is an award nominated, coffee obsessed lover of love, and all round stationery nerd... & that is why she started the Event Wanderer Co. After years wrangling Ballkids at the Australian Open, she stepped into the world of weddings and turned her hand to design, combining a love of stationery with today's modern design and printing techniques to bring her biz baby to life. Tania's speciality is all things stationery and signage and also understanding the stress that event and wedding planning can bring and she's here to help you navigate the chaos of the journey.

instagram.com/eventwandererco/

In this episode of Cut the Cake, we’re diving deep into one of the most underrated parts of wedding planning — your timeline. We walk you through the exact framework we use to create seamless, stress-free wedding day schedules. From what time to kick things off in the morning to squeezing in golden hour portraits and setting the tone for the reception, we’re sharing how to time it all without the overwhelm.

We also unpack the must-knows when it comes to vendor coordination — because even the best timelines fall flat if your vendors aren’t on the same page. From confirming bump-in times to ensuring your key suppliers know where to be and when, communication is everything. We’re here to help you make sure your dream day flows like magic.

One of our biggest tips? Add buffer time. Having a bit of breathing room in your schedule is one of the easiest ways to reduce stress, adapt to any hiccups and keep things feeling calm and collected. Whether it’s hair and makeup running over or extra time needed for group photos, this small tweak makes a huge difference.

We also chat about streamlining the formalities. Speeches, cake cutting and first dances can feel a bit clunky if they’re too stacked — so we explore how to space them out or simplify things for a more natural, relaxed celebration.

Whether you’re a DIY couple mapping things out yourselves or working with a coordinator to bring it all together, this episode is your go-to guide for making your wedding day timeline feel effortless and enjoyable.

Follow along on Instagram @cutthecakepodcast and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode full of real talk and planning gold.

About Melanie
Mellyrain Creative is a wedding planning and styling company and we specialize in designing luxe countryside weddings across regional Victoria. As the head wedding planner and stylist at Mellyrain Creative, her team continues to grow and assist in styling design as well as wedding day coordination and execution of styling set ups at weddings all over Victoria. Prior to weddings Mel worked in sport and entertainment events in Melbourne and she is obsessed with her golden retriever pup Duncan who you’ll see on the gram from time to time. Mel love's to call country Victoria her happy place so when she's not working, you’ll still find me exploring new places, mostly something with mountains as a backdrop.

instagram.com/mellyraincreative
Contact Mel: mellyrain.com.au/contact

About Tania
Tania is an award nominated, coffee obsessed lover of love, and all round stationery nerd... & that is why she started the Event Wanderer Co. After years wrangling Ballkids at the Australian Open, she stepped into the world of weddings and turned her hand to design, combining a love of stationery with today's modern design and printing techniques to bring her biz baby to life. Tania's speciality is all things stationery and signage and also understanding the stress that event and wedding planning can bring and she's here to help you navigate the chaos of the journey.

instagram.com/eventwandererco/

In this episode of Cut The Cake, we’re diving into one of our favourite topics—wedding venues across Victoria. With winter in full swing, it felt like the perfect time to chat about some truly standout locations and why this season can actually be ideal for planning your dream day.

We share some of the venue gems we’ve worked at or fallen in love with—from the garden-filled grounds of Mount Mitchell Estate near Ballarat to the clear marquee magic of Glen Fine Weddings and Events in Drouin South. For those leaning more city-side, we also spotlight Chapter Place at Pentridge Prison and The Trust in Melbourne—both spaces full of character, history, and serious style.

Winter doesn’t just offer moody lighting and romantic vibes—it’s also a strategic time to get ahead on your planning. With more vendor availability and breathing room in everyone’s calendars, it’s the perfect season to start securing your dream team and making considered choices.

Mel is also offering two helpful resources this season: a discounted one-on-one planning consultation for July and August, and a free venue guide packed with insider tips for couples looking at regional Victoria. If you’re unsure where to start or just want a little support, now’s the time to jump in.

We talk through how each venue offers something unique—whether it’s access to a clear-roof marquee under the stars or spaces that blend modern sophistication with history. More than anything, we share how thoughtful venue selection can completely elevate your guest experience and set the tone for your entire celebration.

If you’re newly engaged or knee-deep in decision making, this episode is packed with location inspo, planning advice, and a reminder that Victoria is home to some of the most beautiful (and sometimes underrated) places to say “I do.”

About Melanie
Mellyrain Creative is a wedding planning and styling company and we specialize in designing luxe countryside weddings across regional Victoria. As the head wedding planner and stylist at Mellyrain Creative, her team continues to grow and assist in styling design as well as wedding day coordination and execution of styling set ups at weddings all over Victoria. Prior to weddings Mel worked in sport and entertainment events in Melbourne and she is obsessed with her golden retriever pup Duncan who you’ll see on the gram from time to time. Mel love's to call country Victoria her happy place so when she's not working, you’ll still find me exploring new places, mostly something with mountains as a backdrop.

instagram.com/mellyraincreative
Contact Mel: mellyrain.com.au/contact

About Tania
Tania is an award nominated, coffee obsessed lover of love, and all round stationery nerd... & that is why she started the Event Wanderer Co. After years wrangling Ballkids at the Australian Open, she stepped into the world of weddings and turned her hand to design, combining a love of stationery with today's modern design and printing techniques to bring her biz baby to life. Tania's speciality is all things stationery and signage and also understanding the stress that event and wedding planning can bring and she's here to help you navigate the chaos of the journey.

instagram.com/eventwandererco/