Meet the Honeymoon’s Cool Little Sister
Planning a wedding can be magical—but let’s be honest, it’s also a lot. Between seating charts, last-minute changes, and spending more than you expected, a grand two-week honeymoon abroad may suddenly feel out of reach. That’s where the minimoon comes in.
A minimoon is a shorter, more affordable version of a traditional honeymoon—think 2 to 5 days instead of 2 to 3 weeks. A minimoon is a mini honeymoon (get it?) Whether it’s a cozy cabin in the Catskills, a luxury weekend in Napa Valley, or a sun-drenched beach escape in the Caribbean, a minimoon gives couples the chance to unwind and celebrate without the price tag or planning stress of a full-scale honeymoon.
Let’s dive into why minimoons are rising in popularity—and why they might be the perfect romantic getaway for you.
Minimoon vs. Honeymoon: What’s the Difference?
A traditional honeymoon often involves long-haul flights, luxury resorts, and a sizable chunk of your savings. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime trip designed to be extravagant and extended—often booked months in advance.
A minimoon, on the other hand, is shorter, closer to home, and much easier on the wallet. It’s ideal for couples who:
- Want to travel right after the wedding but don’t have time for a long trip
- Are saving for a bigger honeymoon later
- Spent a lot on the wedding and need a budget honeymoon option
- Simply prefer a quick, no-fuss escape to relax and reconnect
Many couples now take a minimoon right after the wedding, then plan a bigger trip (the full honeymoon) later in the year or for their anniversary.
| Honeymoon | Minimoon |
|---|---|
| ✈️ Far-flung destinations | 🚗 Close-to-home or short flight getaways |
| ⏳ 1–3 weeks off | 🗓️ 2–5 days, usually a long weekend |
| 💰 Big budget, big splurge | 💸 Budget-friendly, still romantic |
| 📅 Planned months (or years) ahead | 👜 Quick to plan, easy to book |
| 😮💨 Involves lots of logistics | 😌 Low-stress, minimal planning |
| 💎 Once-in-a-lifetime luxury | 💕 Short and sweet celebration |
| 🛏️ Often includes resort packages | 🧺 Glamping, boutique hotels, or cozy B&Bs |
💡 Note: These are the typical vibes, but there are no rules! Your minimoon can be a luxe resort, and your honeymoon can be a cozy cabin. Do what fits you two best.
Why Choose a Minimoon?
Still unsure if a minimoon is right for you? Here are the biggest perks:
✅ It’s More Budget-Friendly
You don’t need to shell out thousands for a dreamy escape. Whether you’re eyeing an affordable honeymoon destination or a local luxury stay, a minimoon gives you romance without the financial hangover.
✅ Less Planning, More Relaxing
No international flights, visas, or major itinerary stress. Just pick a beautiful spot, book a few nights, and go. Spontaneity is a key.
✅ Great for Couples with Busy Schedules
Can’t take off two weeks from work? No problem. A 3- or 4-day minimoon lets you celebrate without using up all your PTO.
✅ You Can Still Splurge (a Little!)
Shorter trip = more room in the budget for a boutique hotel, spa treatment, or romantic dinner. Think quality over quantity.
Best Minimoon Destinations
Need inspo? We got you.
Napa Valley, CA
Wine tasting, rolling vineyard views, and sunset hot tubs? Yes, please. Napa is the perfect blend of luxury and laid-back, ideal for couples who want to unwind in style with a glass of rosé in hand. Stay at a boutique inn or a charming vineyard cottage for wine country vibes on a minimoon budget.
St. Lucia
Want tropical but still reachable? This Caribbean gem is surprisingly accessible and endlessly romantic. Think sugar-sand beaches, jungle views, and couples massages with the ocean as your soundtrack. Book a few nights at a cozy resort or split your stay between beachy and hillside.
Paris, France
Yes, Paris! Believe it or not, this dreamy classic can be a surprisingly doable minimoon—especially in the off-season or with budget airlines. Share a pain au chocolat in Montmartre, stroll the Seine, and toast to forever at a sidewalk café. Stay in a chic little hotel or apartment rental, and you’ll get all the romance without blowing your entire honeymoon fund. Très minimoon chic.
It’s not about the miles, it’s about the moments.
Minimoon or Honeymoon? Spoiler: You Can Totally Do Both
Don’t get us wrong—we still adore her glamorous big sister, the full-on honeymoon. There’s something dreamy about jetting off to the Maldives or wandering through cobblestone streets in Italy with your new last name and no responsibilities. If you’ve got the time, budget, and energy, go all in! But here’s the thing—you don’t have to choose just one. You can always plan your big honeymoon later (hello, anniversary trip!) or sprinkle in a few minimoons throughout your first year of marriage. More love, more travel, more cute outfits. Yes, please. 💕
Final Thoughts: Is a Minimoon Right for You?
A minimoon isn’t just a budget version of a “real” honeymoon—it’s a vibe all its own. It’s not a compromise, a backup plan, or something you settle for. It’s a sweet, intentional way to slow down after the chaos of the big day and soak in that just-married glow. Whether you’re off to a cozy cabin, a beachy boutique hotel, or even Paris on points, your minimoon can be just as magical (and way more chill) than a big, over-the-top trip. So toast your love, pack light, and enjoy your soft landing into marriage—because sometimes, the little sister of the honeymoon totally steals the show!
