How to Find the Perfect Small Wedding Venue

finding your perfect small wedding venue

Recent research shows that weddings are getting smaller. Not only are couples getting married later in life, but they are also choosing to invite fewer guests. We live in challenging times, and financially, lots of couples are juggling different priorities. Wedding plans need careful thought, particularly in terms of size.

As specialists in small weddings, we hope you’ll enjoy our useful tips on finding the perfect small wedding venue, and planning the perfect small wedding.

The Location

With fewer guests, you have the flexibility to consider locations further afield and opt for a destination wedding. If this appeals to you, think about what would make the perfect place to get married.

This may be somewhere that holds special memories, a favourite holiday destination, or the place where you said ‘yes!’

Is there a place you have never been to, but always wanted to visit? It could be the perfect place to go venue hunting for your dream small wedding!

The Perfect Small Wedding Venue

Once you’ve decided on the location, it’s time to start searching for the ideal small wedding venue. Choose a venue that feels a comfortable size; you don’t want to feel lost during your wedding. Instead of traditional hotels or corporate facilities, consider unique, unusual, or quirky venues.

Privacy and exclusivity

With a small wedding, privacy and exclusive use are particularly important. For a relaxed, welcoming vibe, consider venues with a homely feel and all-inclusive options for ease of planning.

All in One Wedding Venue

The beauty of a small wedding is that you can keep logistics to a minimum. Choose a wedding venue that accommodates the entire wedding day in one location, without requiring your guests to relocate after the ceremony. Look for venues with beautiful spaces for each part of your day, providing interest and variety. A ‘big reveal’ for the wedding breakfast is a great talking point – it’s fun to keep the surprise under wraps!

flexible weather options

Check if your venue can offer both outdoor and indoor ceremony locations. If you choose an outdoor ceremony, ask if the venue has both options ready on the day. It’s a good idea to have a ‘plan B’ if the weather isn’t on your side!

Local Guest Accommodation

Many small wedding venues offer both mid-week and weekend options, with or without accommodation. If you’ve chosen a destination wedding, are you and your guests staying in the same place, or would you prefer a little privacy on your wedding night? Choose a venue with lots of accommodation nearby to suit all budgets. Think about whether you need transport. If so, avoid lengthy transfers for guests if possible.

Enhance Your Guest Experience

If your guests are staying in the local area, consider exploring local amenities and attractions to enhance their experience. Conduct your research (or ask your venue for assistance) and recommend local activities, places of interest, and restaurants. Are you planning to do any activities with your guests, either the evening before or the day after the wedding? Are you all staying for the whole weekend or even a week? Have you thought about extending your wedding into your honeymoon? These are all questions worth asking.

And Finally...

Having chosen the perfect small wedding venue in a place that you adore, you can now get busy designing your guest list and planning your perfect small wedding details! If you’re looking for more inspiration about the magic of a small wedding venue, check out our Blog about why small venues have a big heart!