The Best Small Wedding Venues in St. Louis
July 17, 2024
Introduction
Intimate weddings and micro weddings are becoming all the rage these days, especially since COVID. Choosing to have just a small gathering of close friends and family is an ideal option for many engaged couples, because it allows them to really connect with their guests, spend more time with everyone, feel less stressed, and save money with out all the fanfare of a big traditional wedding. However, it can be confusing to know what planning an intimate wedding should be like. From historic buildings to trendy and modern spaces, this blog will help couples find the perfect small wedding venues for their intimate wedding in St. Louis, complete with detailed information and insider tips from a local St. Louis photographer. Let’s get into it!
Unconventional and Unique Small Wedding Venues in St. Louis
Choosing unique and unconventional venues for small weddings allows couples to express their individuality and create a truly memorable experience and awesome, different photos. In St. Louis, three small wedding venues stand out for their distinct features and customizable options:
1. The Moonrise Hotel Rooftop
If you’re looking for a small wedding venue with a view, the Moonrise Hotel rooftop in The Loop is a fantastic choice. This unique venue offers a chic and modern space with panoramic views of the city at it’s 8th floor rooftop with solar panels. It’s perfect for a stylish and intimate wedding under the stars.
Capacity: The Moonrise Hotel Rooftop can accommodate small wedding parties of up to 80 guests.
Distinct Features: Who doesn’t love a good rooftop bar? The moonrise has an awesome giant spinning moon as well for your guests to pose in front of for unique and fun vibes. A perfect choice for the off-beat, quirky and fun-loving couple.
Customizable Options: The bar is available as well as several different event rooms/spaces. Couples will also be able to book a block of rooms at the hotel, which can be great for out of town guests.
Insider Tips: Grab some unique urban photos in the Delmar Loop. If you’re a couple who loves music and vinyl records, why not walk down the block to Vintage Vinyl for some totally unique and personalized photos at a record store?
2. The Boo Cat Club
Located in the heart of St. Louis, The Boo Cat Club is a historic small wedding venue that combines vintage elegance with modern amenities. This former movie palace features a grand ballroom with Art Deco details, creating a romantic and intimate ambiance for small and micro weddings. The venue offers flexibility for couples to customize the space according to their vision, and it also provides in-house catering and bar services.
Capacity: The Boo Cat Club can accommodate small wedding parties of up to 150 guests.
Amenities: The venue offers in-house catering, a built-in bar, and a bridal suite for pre-wedding preparations.
Unique Features: The Art Deco architecture and vintage charm of The Boo Cat Club provide a unique backdrop for wedding photos, with its ornate details and historic ambiance. Plus, the cozy nooks and crannies are perfect for capturing those candid moments.
Insider Tips: To capture beautiful photos at The Boo Cat Club, explore the venue’s intricate architectural features, including the grand stage, ornate ceilings, and dramatic lighting for a touch of old Hollywood glamour.
3. Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis
Located in the Grand Center Arts District, the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis (CAM) offers a modern and sophisticated setting for small and micro weddings. With its sleek design and ever-changing exhibitions, CAM provides a unique and dynamic backdrop. The minimalist architecture and open spaces allow couples to customize the venue to fit their vision, making it a versatile choice for any wedding style, or if you’re looking for a minimalist wedding venue.
Capacity: CAM can accommodate intimate wedding parties of up to 200 guests.
Amenities: The venue offers on-site event coordination, state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment, a performance space, a bar and café space, and indoor and outdoor exhibition spaces.
Unique Features: The sleek, contemporary design and rotating art exhibits at CAM provide a constantly evolving atmosphere, making each event unique. The venue’s clean lines and modern aesthetic create stunning photo opportunities, especially with the striking art pieces in the background. Perfect for artsy, non-traditional couples!
Insider Tips: To capture breathtaking photos at CAM, take advantage of the natural light streaming through the large windows and the art installations that provide a vibrant and artistic backdrop. Don’t forget to explore the outdoor courtyard for a mix of urban and natural elements in your wedding photos.
The Magic of Historic Buildings as Intimate Wedding Venues
Historic buildings exude elegance and timeless charm, making them a popular choice for small wedding venues. In St. Louis, two venues stand out for their ability to create an intimate and romantic atmosphere:
1. The Lemp Mansion
For a touch of vintage charm and a rich historical backdrop, The Lemp Mansion is a fantastic choice for small and micro weddings in St. Louis. Located in the Benton Park neighborhood, this historic mansion offers a unique blend of elegance and history, making it a memorable intimate wedding venue. The mansion’s beautifully restored interiors and lush gardens provide a romantic and intimate setting that transports you back in time.
Capacity: The Lemp Mansion can accommodate small wedding parties of up to 150 guests.
Amenities: The venue offers a range of amenities, including on-site catering, a full bar, and event coordination services. There are also several beautifully decorated rooms available for overnight stays, making it convenient for the wedding party and guests.
Unique Features: The Lemp Mansion’s historic architecture, including its grand staircase, ornate woodwork, and period furnishings, provides a stunning backdrop for wedding photos. The venue’s lush gardens and outdoor spaces are perfect for ceremonies and receptions, offering a picturesque setting for your wedding day. Oh, and by the way, it might be haunted. So if you’re a couple into the paranormal and spooky, what better place to get married?!
Insider Tips: To capture the best photos at The Lemp Mansion, take advantage of the mansion’s historic charm by highlighting its intricate details and vintage decor. The grand staircase and elegant interiors are perfect for classic, timeless wedding photos, while the gardens offer a serene and beautiful outdoor setting for capturing candid moments.
2. The Thaxton
Located in the heart of Downtown St. Louis, The Thaxton is a historic art deco venue and underground speakeasy. Dreaming of a Gatsby affair with 1920s vibes? The Thaxton is the perfect venue for lovers of history and the jazz age. This micro wedding venue offers flexibility for couples to customize the space according to their vision.
Capacity: The Thaxton can accommodate small and micro wedding parties of up to 120 guests.
Amenities: The venue offers catering from their list of partner vendors.
Unique Features: The Thaxton is bursting with vintage charm and ornate art deco details.
Enchanting Botanical Spaces in St. Louis for Lush Vibes
For couples who appreciate natural beauty and a serene atmosphere, greenhouses offer a picturesque setting for small and intimate weddings. In St. Louis, two venues stand out for their dreamy indoor botanical settings:
1. Piper Palm House
The Piper Palm House is a gorgeous venue in Tower Grove Park that offers a variety of outdoor spaces for small wedding ceremonies and receptions. From lush gardens to scenic pavilions, this venue provides a romantic and tranquil backdrop for exchanging vows and celebrating with loved ones. The garden’s professional event staff can assist with planning and execution, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience.
Capacity: The Piper Palm House can accommodate small weddings of varying sizes, from micro weddings to slightly larger celebrations. Generally, around 130 guests seems to be the norm for both a ceremony and reception at the venue.
Natural Surroundings: The venue’s airy botanical interior and its natural surroundings, including Tower Grove Park and its ruins, create a picturesque setting for wedding ceremonies and photos.
2. The Jewel Box
The Jewel Box is a historic art deco greenhouse nestled within Forest Park, offering a one-of-a-kind setting for small wedding ceremonies and receptions. The venue features a stunning glass structure filled with exotic plants and flowers, creating a magical and intimate atmosphere for couples and their guests. The Jewel Box also provides event coordination services and allows couples to bring their own caterers and vendors.
Capacity: The Jewel Box can accommodate small wedding parties of up to 150 guests.
Natural Surroundings: The venue’s lush greenery and tropical vibes, and natural light streaming through the glass walls provide a romantic and ethereal backdrop for wedding ceremonies and photos.
Special Touches: Couples can incorporate the venue’s botanical elements into their wedding theme, from floral-inspired décor to garden-inspired cocktails.
Insider Tips: To capture beautiful photos at The Jewel Box, take advantage of the natural light and vibrant colors inside the greenhouse, as well as the surrounding gardens and reflecting pools for stunning backdrops. Plus, you’re right in Forest Park, so it’s easy to grab other wedding day photos at the Art Museum, the Grand Basin, the Boat House, the Muny, and the World’s Fair Pavilion!
Cozy Yet Modern Event Spaces for Small Weddings in St. Louis
Quaint and cozy event spaces offer an intimate and inviting atmosphere for micro wedding celebrations, creating a sense of warmth and togetherness. In St. Louis, two event spaces stand out for their charm and versatility:
1. The Dogwood
The Dogwood, located in The Grove, is a newer venue that provides an urban and modern setting for small weddings. The venue offers both indoor and outdoor event spaces, including a private backyard space, making it ideal for intimate ceremonies and receptions. With customizable options for décor, couples can create a personalized and memorable experience for their closest friends and family.
Capacity: The Dogwood can accommodate small wedding parties of up to 200 guests, depending on the layout you choose for your ceremony and reception.
Ambiance: The venue’s urban surroundings and easy access make it a great choice for intimate weddings with friends and family from out of town, and for couples who want a unique, understated vibe for an alternative wedding.
Customizable Options: Couples have the flexibility to personalize the event space for their needs by choosing from their many available rooms and decor options like in-house china and flatware.
Insider Tips: To create a warm and inviting atmosphere at the Dogwood, consider incorporating soft lighting, natural elements, and personalized details to enhance the cozy ambiance for guests and photos.
2. Wild Carrot
Wild Carrot, located in the Shaw neighborhood, is a versatile St. Louis wedding venue with a unique industrial-chic vibe. It used to be a one screen movie theater that opened in 1915, so the historic marquee adds a vintage charm to your wedding. The spacious event area and charming outdoor patio offer plenty of options for both your ceremony and reception. It’s a great choice for couples looking for a modern yet cozy venue. Since it opened in 2015, it has quickly become one of the most popular wedding venues in St. Louis.
Capacity: If you’re looking for a bit of a bigger venue that still feels small and intimate, Wild Carrot may be the perfect fit. Its capacity is 300, but works great for weddings with guests of 120-150.
Ambiance: The venue’s sports-inspired ambiance and views of the stadium create an exciting and unconventional setting for wedding ceremonies and receptions.
Customizable Options: A full service cocktail bar is available at the venue, as well as indoor and outdoor spaces, and a list of preferred caterers.
Insider Tips: To capture unique and unconventional photos at Wild Carrot, take advantage of the old St. Louis neighborhood vibes and gorgeous vintage furniture in the industrial space.
3. Verde on Cherokee
Nestled in the vibrant Cherokee Street neighborhood, Verde on Cherokee is a charming and eclectic venue small and micro weddings in St. Louis. This intimate space combines bohemian charm with modern elegance, featuring exposed brick walls, lush greenery, and a cozy atmosphere. Verde on Cherokee offers a unique setting that feels both welcoming and stylish, ideal for couples looking for a venue with character and warmth.
Capacity: Truly a micro wedding venue, Verde on Cherokee can accommodate intimate wedding parties of up to 60 guests.
Amenities: The venue is an indoor greenhouse vibe with exposed brick, and they have some in-house rentals available. There is a beautiful outdoor garden space available for ceremonies or cocktail hours.
Unique Features: The eclectic decor and verdant surroundings of Verde on Cherokee make it a photographer’s dream. The mix of vintage furniture, string lights, and abundant plants creates a whimsical and romantic setting for wedding photos.
Insider Tips: For the best photos at Verde on Cherokee, utilize the garden space during golden hour to capture the soft, natural light. Inside, focus on the unique details like the vintage furniture and exposed brick walls to add texture and warmth to your images. It’s a great space for a modern yet boho wedding aesthetic!
Rustic and Outdoor Spaces for An Intimate Wedding in St. Louis
Are you less into the urban vibes, and hoping for more outdoor ambiance and rustic charm? These venues may be perfect:
1. The Larimore
If you’re dreaming of a rustic yet elegant wedding, the Larimore, located northeast of Florissant and Ferguson and near the Columbia Bottom Conservation Area, is the place to be. This venue offers a charming barn, a historic mansion, and beautifully landscaped grounds. It’s perfect for couples who want a blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. The sprawling property provides endless photo opportunities, from the vintage barn to the picturesque pond.
Capacity: The Larimore can accommodate small wedding parties of up to 100 guests.
Amenities: The Larimore is pretty much a one-stop shop with it’s on-site getting ready bridal suite, chapel, banquet hall, gazebo, and honeymoon suite.
Unique Features: The historic charm and sprawling grounds of the Larimore provides a stunning backdrop for wedding photos, with rustic and elegant details.
2. Pine Hollow Farms
Located in Eureka, MO, Pine Hollow Farms offers a rustic and charming setting perfect for an intimate wedding. With its beautiful redesigned barn and serene outdoor spaces, this venue provides a tranquil and picturesque backdrop for your micro wedding. The natural beauty of the surroundings makes for stunning wedding photos. Want to see more? Check out this sample gallery from a wedding styled shoot at Pine Hollow Farms
Capacity: Pine Hollow Farms can accommodate both large and small wedding parties.
Ambiance: The venue’s natural surroundings make it a great choice for intimate weddings with an outdoor focus away from the busy city atmosphere.
Customizable Options: Couples have the flexibility to personalize the event space for their needs by choosing from their many in-house decor options. There’s even an on-site bridal suite!
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Venue:
- Consider Your Guest List: An intimate wedding typically involves a smaller guest list, so choose a venue that feels cozy and not too spacious.
- Think About Your Style: Whether you prefer rustic, vintage, modern, or natural settings, make sure the venue aligns with your personal style.
- Visit in Person: Photos can only tell you so much. Schedule a visit to get a feel for the venue and envision your wedding day there.
- Ask About Packages: Many venues offer all-inclusive packages that can simplify your planning process. Don’t hesitate to ask about what’s included.
Conclusion
St. Louis is brimming with beautiful intimate wedding venues that can make your special day truly magical. As a local St. Louis wedding photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how the right venue can set the tone for an unforgettable celebration. If you’re ready to start planning your dream intimate wedding, consider these venues and reach out if you need any photography advice or recommendations. I’d love to help you! Happy planning!
Ready to book a photographer for your intimate wedding in St. Louis? I would be honored to be there capturing all your candid and tender moments with your closest family and friends. Contact me to get info on my pricing and packages.
Thinking an elopement might be more your speed? I got you! You may find my recent blog on 5 Misconceptions About Eloping helpful to narrow down the type of wedding that’s truly perfect for you, or check out my free 50-page elopement planning guide!
xo, Stacey
