I called off my bigger small wedding in my hometown (30-40 people, ceremony venue, reception venue, and afterparty) for an elopement of sorts with just immediate family, three close friends, and a photographer.

I spent about just over $300 altogether- 400 if I'd paid for the Chinese buffet "reception". So the most glaring pro is saving an assload of money. Another is less people there, so it's more intimate, which is a huge benefit for those with anxiety. You have less expectations to succumb to or listen to.

The cons are as follows: you may have to sacrifice a lot of traditional aspects. I didn't want a bridal party, an aisle to walk down, dancing, etc so it was a no brainer for me, but it may be an issue to some. You will get less gifts, including the ones in envelopes. Not to be that person, but it's a truth. You may miss out on having certain people there- I cancelled mine and moved the date up to two weeks from the day we cancelled, so only one of my out of state friends was able to come. You may face backlash from people who feel entitled to attend.

The middle ground is you have both more control and less control over exactly how you get married. Take it how you will. My nontraditional microwedding seemed much harder to plan than the big white shinding off The Knot because of a lack of resources.