While COVID-19 restrictions might have required all kinds of celebrations to scale back, low-key weddings were trending before the pandemic struck, according to industry experts. And, for a growing number of couples, sweet and low is still the way to go.

Rather than focusing on the traditional pageantry of a large-scale ceremony and reception, many couples are turning to what’s most important to them personally, says Rachael Lassoff, founder and owner of Dream Day Events in Haverford, Pennsylvania. She begins all bridal consultations by asking clients what three things they most want included in their wedding.

“I’m getting married myself this year and we’re having a 40-person ceremony and dinner,” she shares. “Since it will be very close to Halloween, we’re following that with a giant costume party. …We’ll be able to chat with people in our core group…and have plenty of opportunity to dance.”

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More couples are also choosing to save money—and make their Big Day more meaningful—by holding their ceremony and reception at the home of a friend or relative, notes Brooke Voris, owner of Brooke Voris Weddings in Gulph Mills, Pennsylvania.

“While that can save on venue rental fees, couples should take into consideration the need for adequate bathroom facilities and an alternative setup in case of bad weather,” she advises.

Some “backyard” weddings Voris planned recently traded traditional frills for low-key comfort. Gone were the surf-and-turf dinners, replaced by barbecues or relaxed brunches.

Conscious couples are even making their event more intimate by cutting down—or even cutting out—bridal parties, Lassoff says. Fewer participants also means easier planning and execution (read: less stress).

“More and more of today’s couples are making their day more about each other and less about grandeur,” Voris says. And most “are making their weddings low-key because they want to, not because they have to.”