While the popularity and the necessity of small weddings, elopements and micro weddings have increased over the last year due to the pandemic, these weddings were trending long before 2020! Hosting less than 30 of your closest family and friends for a unique, intimate wedding is a stress-free, joy-filled option pandemic or not!
Once gathering restrictions are lifted, the lingering financial and health concerns stemming from the pandemic mean the likelihood of couples needing to do smaller weddings this spring will be greater than ever.
Traditional venues such as hotels, large halls or giant open venues just don't scream intimate wedding! And, with the postponements of 2020 weddings, you may end up struggling to find availability at some of the top venues. So, think outside the box for your wedding venue this year!
Below are four non-traditional venue options for micro weddings.
Coffee shops, cafes or restaurants
There are so many options of unique or trendy restaurants or cafes in your area. Now, more than ever, is a perfect time to support local, and Edmonton has no shortage of wonderful choices!
The gorgeous vintage décor and large space at The Art of Cake make for a beautiful and unique small wedding venue. This bakery/café specializes in amazing artisan cakes and desserts and a delicious menu. Private events are personalized to a couple's budget, and they work with you to host your special day.
Tiramisu Bistro is an Italian inspired, warm and cozy restaurant located on 124 street. With its twinkle lights and outdoor patio, it's a perfect intimate location in the middle of the city.
A 100-year-old heritage brick building in the Brewery District is the home to Wilfred's, a contemporary café and diner. The space is bright and fun, accented with beautiful blush pink tones. Wilfred's hosts private events with a custom set menu or a seasonal a la carte menu. The old brick from the former Molson Brewery makes the perfect backdrop for a wedding at Wilfred's.
Outdoor Patio
Consider an outdoor patio for both a COVID friendly and intimate wedding option.
The Parlour Italian Kitchen & Bar is about gathering with your favourite people for a good meal and fine wine. Why not host your nearest and dearest for a ceremony on their large patio? You then have the option to enjoy their 'modern take on traditional Italian' menu either outdoors or in one of their brick-lined, rustic event spaces indoors.
The Little Brick is an intimate and adorable café tucked into a beautiful heritage home. They have a gorgeous patio with real wood-burning fire pits and patio heaters for your guest to cozy up and enjoy your day. Say "I Do" outdoors and head in for a delicious meal in the unique event space.
Located just steps from Whyte Ave, Café Bicyclette is a French café with a large patio and terrace where you can dine al fresco with your closest family and friends. The space is heated in the winter and ornate with greenery and flowers in the summer.
Backyard Heated Tent Rental
We predict backyard weddings will be huge this spring and summer. And, while it would be nice to have a perfectly landscaped yard with no neighbours in sight, this is not the reality for most of us. A large canopy tent can help create a fancy wedding feel right in your yard.
Need to host thirty guests? A 20' x 20' canopy tent will seat 32- 40 guests, and propane heaters and ducts can be rented from Special Event Rentals, River City Events and Infinite Event Services. Now all you need to plan is your décor!
Private Studio Space or Home
Studios are a lovely spin on traditional wedding venues.
The Ellis is a 1270 sq ft private studio located in St. Albert. The space has natural light and beautiful decor that is updated seasonally. Find out more about the Ellis Here
The Creative Hive is a stunning industrial event venue located in west Edmonton. The 2300 square ft restored warehouse is a perfect space for intimate weddings. Dance the night away (hopefully soon!) while socially distancing your guests.
For a homey small wedding venue in Edmonton, without hosing at your actual home, check out Yorath House. The two-storey 1949 home was redeveloped to include a unique flavour. Featuring a grand stone fireplace, exposed brick walls, and an expansive patio the house is a blank backdrop to design your perfect day!.
We are still navigating a challenging and unprecedented time with so much uncertainty going into the spring.
I am happy to work with you to set up a social distancing outdoor wedding or to book your intimate summer micro wedding at a venue of your choice. Feel free to contact me at kathy@atseyieevents.com if you have any questions or need assistance.
Happy Planning!
Kathy