Los Angeles is known for hosting extravagant parties, like rooftop outings and themed pool parties hosted by your favorite celebrities. But that’s why having a small, micro wedding in Los Angeles can be really special and different. As a Los Angeles wedding photographer, I can tell you that the key is to find the perfect place. Whether you want a cute chapel or a romantic restaurant, here are our top picks for the best micro wedding venues in Los Angeles.
Why Choose a Micro Wedding in Los Angeles?
First things first, what is a micro wedding? A micro wedding is a small wedding with usually around 20-50 guests, making it cozy and intimate.
And what about a small wedding? A small wedding typically has around 50-100 guests. It’s bigger than a micro wedding but still much more intimate than a big traditional wedding.
Now, why go for micro or small wedding venues? Besides being trendy, these types of weddings are great for couples who want a personal and relaxed celebration. Imagine being surrounded by your closest friends and family, sharing special moments without the stress of a huge guest list. And Los Angeles? This city has it all—beaches, mountains, city views, you name it. So, let’s find that perfect spot to tie the knot!
Best Micro Wedding Venues in Los Angeles
Alright, let’s get to the good stuff. Here are some top-notch micro wedding venues in Los Angeles that will make your small wedding venues feel grand.
Unique Micro Wedding Venues
If you’re the type of couple who likes to think outside the box, these small wedding venues are for you.
1. The Houdini Estate
Location: 2400 N. Fullbright Ave, Los Angeles, CA
Capacity: 75 guests
Pros: The Houdini Estate is like stepping into a different world. With its beautiful outdoor garden, waterfalls, and old Hollywood magic, it’s perfect for couples who want a fairytale wedding. The venue’s historic charm and mystique make for unforgettable photos. Plus, there’s an old mansion on-site, which adds to the atmosphere.
Cons: The estate’s remote location means it’s a bit of a drive from downtown LA. Also, the venue’s historical preservation rules can limit some decor options.
Price Range: $5,000 – $8,000
2. Carondelet House
Location: 627 S. Carondelet St, Los Angeles, CA
Capacity: 100 guests
Pros: This Italian-inspired villa offers a blend of historic charm and modern elegance. The exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and cozy nooks provide a perfect setting for a small wedding. The venue also has a beautiful courtyard, perfect for outdoor ceremonies or cocktail hours.
Cons: The venue’s charm comes at a cost, so it might be a bit pricier than some other options. Additionally, the space can be a bit dark, so you might need extra lighting.
Price Range: $4,000 – $6,000
3. The Fig House
Location: 4612 Broadway, Los Angeles, CA
Capacity: 100 guests
Pros: For a couple who loves vibrant colors and mid-century vibes, The Fig House is a dream. The venue’s retro chic décor, complete with colorful murals and lush greenery, makes it a great spot for photos. The indoor and outdoor spaces offer flexibility, so you can easily move from ceremony site to reception. Perfect for having one wedding photographer for complete coverage.
Cons: Its popularity means booking early is a must. The indoor space can feel a bit small if you have a large guest list, so it’s best suited for more intimate gatherings.
Price Range: $3,500 – $5,500
Outdoor Wedding Venues in Los Angeles, CA
For those who want to say “I do” under the open sky, LA’s outdoor small wedding venues are breathtaking.
1. Descanso Gardens
Location: 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA
Capacity: 150 guests
Pros: Descanso Gardens is a floral paradise with sprawling gardens, serene lakes, and picturesque landscapes. It’s perfect for couples who want a natural, serene setting. The Rose Garden and Japanese Garden are particularly stunning for ceremonies.
Cons: The venue is quite popular, so booking well in advance is essential. Also, the weather can be unpredictable, so have a backup plan for rain.
Price Range: $2,500 – $4,500
2. Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyards
Location: 340 N. Kenter Ave, Los Angeles, CA
Capacity: 100 guests
Pros: For a truly scenic wedding, Malibu Rocky Oaks offers panoramic views of the Santa Monica Mountains and is ideal for a sunset ceremony. The vineyard setting adds a touch of elegance and romance, making it perfect for a winery-themed wedding.
Cons: The venue is a bit of a drive from central LA, so make sure your guests are prepared for the journey. The steep terrain might also be challenging for older guests.
Price Range: $7,000 – $10,000
3. Calamigos Ranch
Location: 327 Latigo Canyon Rd, Malibu, CA
Capacity: 200 guests
Pros: Calamigos Ranch offers a variety of outdoor spaces with rustic charm and natural beauty. Whether you want a forest setting or a serene lakeside ceremony, this venue has it all. The on-site coordinators are also very helpful in making sure everything runs smoothly.
Cons: The venue can be a bit pricey, and the drive to Malibu might be long for some guests. Additionally, the large capacity means it’s not as intimate as some other Los Angeles wedding venues.
Price Range: $5,000 – $10,000
Small Wedding Locations in Los Angeles
Sometimes, the best things come in small packages. These wedding venues are perfect for a cozy celebration with your nearest and dearest.
1. The Ebell of Los Angeles
Location: 743 S. Lucerne Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
Capacity: 150 guests
Pros: The Ebell offers several small, elegant rooms that are perfect for intimate weddings. Its historic charm and elegant décor make it a sophisticated choice. The venue also has beautiful gardens and a stunning ballroom, providing various backdrops for your big day.
Cons: Being a historic building, the Ebell’s spaces might not be fully accessible for guests with mobility issues. Additionally, the venue’s popularity means it can book up quickly.
Price Range: $3,000 – $6,000
2. The York Manor
Location: 4900 York Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
Capacity: 100 guests
Pros: This stylish venue in Highland Park combines modern design with classic elegance. Its versatile spaces can be tailored to fit your intimate wedding day. The outdoor courtyard is perfect for a relaxed ceremony, while the indoor spaces offer a chic, modern vibe.
Cons: The venue is popular, so booking early is crucial. The urban setting might not suit couples looking for a more secluded, nature-filled venue.
Price Range: $3,000 – $5,000
3. The Ruby Street
Location: 5000 York Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
Capacity: 150 guests
Pros: Originally a historic church, The Ruby Street is now a hip, eclectic venue that’s perfect for a small, memorable wedding. Its mix of modern and vintage décor creates a unique atmosphere. The venue also offers plenty of natural light, which will make your wedding photographer happy.
Cons: The venue’s layout might be challenging for larger guest lists, so it’s best suited for smaller gatherings. The space can feel a bit tight if you have a lot of guests.
Price Range: $3,500 – $6,000
Airbnb Wedding Venues in Los Angeles
Airbnb isn’t just for vacation rentals anymore. These Airbnb wedding venues offer unique and intimate settings for your special day.
1. The Treehouse
Location: 25558 Tuna Canyon Rd, Malibu, CA
Capacity: 50 guests
Pros: Located in the Topanga Canyon, The Treehouse offers a rustic, bohemian vibe that’s perfect for nature-loving couples. Imagine getting married under a canopy of trees with the sounds of nature in the background. The venue’s unique, rustic charm makes for truly unforgettable photos.
Cons: The remote location means it’s a bit of a drive from LA. Also, the venue’s rustic setting might not be ideal for all couples, especially those looking for a more polished venue on their wedding day.
Price Range: $2,000 – $4,000
2. The Hollywood Hills Villa
Location: 2540 N. Laurel Canyon Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
Capacity: 80 guests
Pros: This luxurious villa in the Hollywood Hills provides stunning views of the city and plenty of space for an intimate ceremony and reception. The villa’s modern design and spacious outdoor areas make it perfect for a chic, upscale wedding.
Cons: The venue’s exclusivity comes at a price, so it’s on the higher end of the spectrum. The steep hills might be challenging for guests with mobility issues.
Price Range: $5,000 – $8,000
3. The Modern Loft
Location: 533 S. Fremont Ave, Los Angeles, CA
Capacity: 75 guests
Pros: For a chic, urban wedding, consider renting a modern loft in downtown LA. These spaces are stylish and offer a blank canvas for you to create your dream wedding day. The floor-to-ceiling windows provide plenty of natural light, perfect for photos.
Cons: Being in downtown LA, parking can be tricky, and the urban setting might not suit everyone. It’s best suited for couples who love the city vibe.
Price Range: $3,000 – $5,000
Best Small Wedding Venues in Los Angeles
When it comes to small weddings, these wedding venues are simply the best.
1. The Little Door
Location: 8164 W. 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA
Capacity: 60 guests
Pros: This charming restaurant offers a cozy, romantic setting for your wedding ceremony. With its fairy-tale courtyard and delicious cuisine, your guests are sure to be impressed. The intimate atmosphere is perfect for a small gathering.
Cons: The small wedding venue size means it’s not suitable for larger guest lists. Also, being a restaurant, there might be restrictions on décor and setup times.
Price Range: $2,500 – $4,500
2. The Lombardi House
Location: 1717 N. Bronson Ave, Los Angeles, CA
Capacity: 100 guests
Pros: This historic farmhouse in Hollywood offers a blend of rustic charm and modern amenities. It’s ideal for a small, elegant wedding with its beautiful gardens and stylish indoor spaces. The venue also provides on-site accommodations for you and your guests.
Cons: The venue’s popularity means booking well in advance is a must. Additionally, the farmhouse setting might not be ideal for couples looking for a more modern venue.
Price Range: $4,000 – $7,000
Tips for Planning a Micro Wedding in Los Angeles
Now that you have some venue ideas, here are some tips to help you plan your perfect micro wedding in Los Angeles County.
Booking the Wedding Venue
1. Timing is Everything
Micro weddings are popular, so book your venue as early as possible. Some venues offer discounts for weekday weddings, so consider a non-traditional day.
2. Visit in Person
Photos can be deceiving. If possible, visit the venue in person to get a feel for the space and make sure it fits your vision.
3. Ask Questions
Don’t be shy! Ask the wedding venue about their policies, what’s included in the rental fee, and any restrictions they might have.
Personalizing Your Micro Wedding
1. Focus on the Details
With a smaller guest list, you can focus more on the details. Personalized place cards, custom menus, and unique favors can make your wedding feel extra special.
2. Creative Seating Arrangements
Use creative seating arrangements to make the space feel more intimate. Consider a circular seating arrangement for the ceremony or long banquet tables for the reception.
3. Keep It Fun
Just because it’s a smaller wedding doesn’t mean it can’t be fun. Incorporate games, interactive elements, or even a themed photo booth to keep your guests entertained.
Conclusion
Now you’ve gotten a glimpse into the best micro wedding Los Angeles venues that Los Angeles has to offer. From intimate gardens to chic urban lofts, LA has the perfect spot for your special day. Remember, the key to a perfect micro wedding is to keep it personal and true to your style. And lastly, bigger is not always better! Happy wedding planning 🙂
