In March, on an otherwise ordinary Wednesday, in between a dentist appointment and school pick-ups, my partner, Mark, and I will say, “We do.” No seating plans. No caterers. No hen do. Just us and two witnesses. The ceremony will take place in the new Fitzherbert Room in Brighton Town Hall, where a maximum of four guests can see loved ones get wed. The celebrant will be a neighbour. I’m yet to choose a dress. Once our three young children are in bed we’ll go out to dinner. And I can’t tell you how happy I am about it.

According to figures from wedding venues, demand for tiny weddings and elopements has tripled, so we’re not the only ones shunning a large, formal celebration.

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