There’s so much to love about a small destination wedding. An unforgettable vacation with your favorite people? Yes please! Planning the perfect destination wedding starts with choosing where you want to go. You don’t have to fly to Europe for a beautiful wedding. Here are some of my favorite wedding destinations in the U.S.!
7 Small Destination Wedding Locations
For the Artists: Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens
Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens is a stunning maze of mirrored mosaics. Artist Isaiah Zagar has a studio and lot that he’s transformed. He started working in the South Street neighborhood in the 1960s. His mosaic style has become a signature of the Philly aesthetic.
It’s easy to imagine exchanging vows under one of the sculptural arches while the sun glitters on glass and tile all around. Your wedding guests will never forget being in such an immersive environment for your big moment. Plus you don’t need any decor because the Magic Gardens are so colorful.
For Big City Vibes: Central Park in NYC
New York City is easily one of the best small destination wedding locations in the U.S. It’s eclectic and has something for everyone. Central Park is ideal for anyone looking for a lowkey ceremony.
Last year I photographed a small wedding at Shakespeare Garden. It was the perfect mix of big city moments and secret garden atmosphere. After the ceremony, the couple treated their family and friends to an amazing dinner in Manhattan.
For a Unique Southern Feel: Sully Mansion in New Orleans
Sully Mansion is located in New Orleans’ Garden District. This neighborhood has all the Southern charm you could want. Think oak trees, trailing jasmine, and a wrap-around porch. The intimate side yard features a tiled patio and lush plants.
This venue is designed with small weddings in mind. The bed and breakfast hosts parties of up to 30 guests. You can get ready in the gorgeous rooms then have an outdoor wedding ceremony and reception. Book the whole place for the weekend, and create the feeling of being in your own world for your wedding weekend.
For the Outdoor Adventurers: Deer Park Villa in the Redwoods
Maybe you’re looking for a small destination wedding location in the woods. Deer Park Villa is a nature lover’s dreams. It’s located in the Redwoods north of San Francisco. The ceremony and reception space are stunning. Lights hang between majestic trees for a gorgeous outdoor celebration.
Deer Park Villa typically reserves weekend dates for large weddings. If you want to plan a small wedding of up to 50 guests, reach out to learn about their weekday elopement packages. You’ll probably save money on travel and accommodations, too.
For the Beach Bums: Duke’s Malibu in California
Is the beach your happy place? It’s hard to beat Southern California’s dreamy white and blue stretches of Pacific Coast. Duke’s Malibu is usually right on the water. The venue’s vintage beachy ambiance is distinctly California. If you want a beach wedding without worrying about weather, you can have a fully indoor wedding with gorgeous water views at Duke’s.
For Garden Lovers: Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Miami
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is an ideal small destination wedding for anyone who wants a Mediterranean aesthetic. The 34-room mansion and 10 acres hosts art exhibitions and school programs. It’s perfect for a luxurious, sweptaway feeling.
For Coastal Folks: Wings Neck Lighthouse in Pocasset, MA
On the opposite end of the East Coast, you can find Wings Neck Lighthouse in Pocasset, Massachusetts. This location is pure New England. It’s on a peninsula in a big bay across from Cape Cod.
Aside from looking like a postcard of vintage New England, Wings Neck Lighthouse is a short-term rental. It sleeps eight and has private beach access. You could make your wedding a true getaway by the bay.
Your Destination Wedding Photography
Would you like me to photograph your small destination wedding? I’m a Buffalo photographer who’s ready to travel! I’ll be your Wedding Bestie while you plan your dream celebration.
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