
Planning a 20-Guest Civil Micro Wedding - Supplier Checklist & Sample Program

Planning a 20 guest civil micro wedding lets you focus on meaningful moments without a heavy budget. Start by choosing a small space with easy access and good light, then pencil a simple meal nearby. Shortlist a cozy reception venue within 10 to 15 minutes of your ceremony spot.
Why 20 guests works
- Intimate atmosphere that keeps the program on time
- Lower spend on food and styling
- Easier coordination for documents and group photos
Core planning timeline at a glance
- Week 1 gather IDs and PSA documents, file for your Marriage License
- Week 2 lock your date with an authorized officiant and confirm venue
- Week 3 finalize suppliers and guest list
- Week 4 ceremony, registration follow up, and PSA request timing
If you need help weighing settings and fees, compare options in City Hall vs Private Venue Civil Wedding.
Supplier checklist for a 20 guest setup
Must haves
- Officiant with jurisdiction over your chosen venue
- Two witnesses of legal age with valid IDs
- Rings, contract pages, and a small signing table
Smart add ons
- 1 to 2 hour coverage from trusted photographers
- Handheld bouquet and boutonniere, minimal table florals
- Simple sound solution a compact speaker for vows and music
- Restaurant or private room booking for a set menu
Budget anchors and realistic ranges
Item | Lean | Comfortable |
---|---|---|
Government fees and copies | ₱1,000 to ₱2,500 | ₱1,500 to ₱3,500 |
Officiant honorarium | ₱2,000 to ₱5,000 | ₱5,000 to ₱8,000 |
Venue or permit if any | ₱0 to ₱2,000 | ₱2,000 to ₱6,000 |
Photo coverage 1–2 hours | ₱5,000 | ₱8,000 to ₱12,000 |
Bouquet and boutonniere | ₱1,500 | ₱3,500 |
Meal for 20 set menu | ₱10,000 to ₱18,000 | ₱18,000 to ₱30,000 |
For broader spending models and where costs flex, review How Much Is a Civil Wedding in the Philippines Cost Breakdown & Real Budgets.
Layout and seating tips
- U or L shaped seating keeps everyone close to the signing table
- Reserve front row seats for parents and witnesses
- Place a small floral cluster at the signing corner for quick portraits
Sample program for 45 to 60 minutes
- Arrival and ID checks 10 minutes
- Processional or simple welcome 3 minutes
- Opening remarks by officiant 2 minutes
- Vows and ring exchange 8 minutes
- Signing of contract 7 minutes
- Closing and announcement 3 minutes
- Group photos 10 to 20 minutes
Photo sequencing
- Couple and parents
- Couple with witnesses and immediate family
- Full group shot
- Couple portraits near the best light
Menu ideas for 20
- Set menu with one appetizer, one main, and a shared dessert plate
- Pitcher drinks to control cost
- One celebration cake or petite dessert from curated cakes and pastries
Styling that photographs well
- Neutral linens plus one accent color from florals
- Keep décor low and away from the signing area for clean frames
- Natural light near windows or a shaded outdoor corner
Day of checklist
Documents and logistics
- Valid IDs for couple and witnesses
- Marriage License and contract pages
- Pens, small envelope for receipts, and gratuity
- Location pins and parking notes sent to all guests
Comfort items
- Compact speaker and phone playlist
- Stain pen or mini sewing kit
- Water and light snacks for the couple
Beauty and timing
- Coordinate call times with reliable hair and makeup
- Steam or press outfits the day before
- Build a 10 minute buffer before the ceremony start
After the ceremony
- Confirm who files the signed documents with the LCR
- Note expected release and transmittal dates
- Request your PSA Marriage Certificate once indexed
Wrap up
A 20 guest civil micro wedding shines when logistics are close, photos are intentional, and the program is crisp. Keep travel short, prep simple, and the meal heartfelt. For the full legal flow and scheduling tips from filing to PSA, finish with the pillar guide in the Civil Weddings in the Philippines Requirements Costs and Step by Step Process.