From classic rock to bumpin' new pop songs, here's a curated list of crowd-pleasers.
Updated Mar 06, 202513 Small Wedding Venues in NC to Host Your Nearest and Dearest
If you’re looking for an intimate space with lots of Southern charm, you’ve come to the right place.
Interested in finding small wedding venues in NC? There's much to love about a North Carolina wedding filled with Southern charm, variety and beauty. From the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains to the charming historic cities, the Tarheel State is a pick for local couples and travelers alike. It's ideal for weddings of all sizes, but with many unique, historical places, it offers a nice collection of smaller venues.
An intimate wedding venue is essential for couples who want to keep their guest list small but celebrate their love in a big way. Rather than booking an oversized ballroom or a sprawling resort, small wedding venues offer the opportunity to bring your closest friends and family together in a cozy, calm atmosphere, allowing for speeches and vows you can actually hear. Small wedding venues also help to keep costs low since the most expensive part of your budget is tied to guest count.
Here, we've rounded up the best 13 small wedding venues in NC—from Asheville to Charlotte and beyond. And after taking a look at the following intimate wedding spots below, make your way over to The Knot Vendor Marketplace to find NC wedding vendors and venues that can make your dream wedding a reality.
The 1932 Barn
A quick 25-minute drive out of the heart of Charlotte, you'll find The 1932 Barn, an elegant and historic wedding and reception venue in NC. Located on the Hodge's Farm property, your guests will feel tucked away in the small-town charm while still having an elevated dining and hospitality experience. For those couples who prefer a one-stop solution for wedding planning, all of their packages include a wedding coordinator, wedding decor and all of the production work, like vendor consultation, virtual consultations, a rehearsal and set up and tear down. Each wedding also offers the use of a getting-ready suites, a ceremony site (The Green), a cocktail hour site (The Barnyard), a reception site (The Main Barn) and a food service site (The Annex). The 1932 Barn can accommodate up to 100 guests.
FEATURED VIDEO FROM THE KNOT
- Guest Capacity: Up to 150
Long Cove Resort
Looking for wedding venues in Charlotte, NC for small weddings? This truly unique property is nestled on Lake Wylie. Technically a country club property, Long Cove Resort feels more like a sophisticated adult camp, with 33 tiny houses, a lakefront event space and a private beach. If you have more wiggle room in your budget, you can rent the entire resort for a long weekend, giving all of your guests the option to stay on the property. Each cozy cabin has charming details but is equipped with bright, modern amenities for a luxury stay. Though a small venue accommodates up to 120 guests, you have many options for your wedding sites, including a hilltop patio, the shoreline, a large patio for dancing and so on. Just think: dinner under the stars while a fire is crackling. As a bonus, guests can rent watersport gear like kayaks, pontoon boats and longboards when they're not busy with festivities!
- Guest Capacity: Up to 120
The Blue Heron Event Venue
While some engaged duos like to curate a myriad of vendors to make their big visions come to life, others want an easy solution that includes, well, everything. If you're in the latter bucket and planning a small wedding in NC, consider this Greensboro/High Point-based full-service venue. The Blue Heron Event Venue is serviced by Pepper Moon Catering, one of the oldest companies in the area, and offers a gorgeous space with modern finishes, luxury amenities, waterfront views and glowing, natural light. You can choose from indoor or outdoor spaces to host up to 150 of your friends and family. We love the terrace with a picture-perfect view and a banquet hall featuring ambient lighting and large windows. Everything is included here, from the in-house catering and bar to plates, chairs and so on. Two dressing rooms are also provided for the couple and their wedding party, too.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 150
The McAlister-Leftwich House
When you find your person, it feels magical and wonderful—and a lot like coming home. So why wouldn't you want to say 'I do' in a cozy house? That's exactly what this historic downtown Greensboro small wedding venue offers. You'll walk through the doors and be instantly in awe of the space that feels like you're being welcomed into someone's elegant home, complete with 14-foot ceilings, oversized windows and charming details. While The McAlister-Leftwich House can accommodate up to 100 guests for a cocktail hour, you can also host a pint-sized ceremony and reception by choosing between their four indoor and outdoor spaces. All-inclusive in the price is an event coordinator, event staff and catering.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 150
Twickenham House
When you envision the moment you become wed, you see you and your partner standing on the top of a mountain, with nothing but blue skies behind you. This dream can become a reality at the Twickenham House, tucked away in the high country of North Carolina, at an elevation of 4,600 feet. It's right along the Blue Ridge Parkway, and while it features 400 acres of park-like grounds with ponds, wildlife and hiking trails, it's best suited for small affairs. You can exchange vows with the view of a lifetime, then dance the night away at their outdoor venues. You can also book the English manor with your immediate wedding party, and the venue encourages three-day full estate rentals. As a bonus? There is no cut-off time or noise restrictions since you're so far away from the nearest neighbor! The micro-wedding package for up to 25 guests includes the officiant, the DJ, the cliffside ceremony, the reception and the wedding coordinator.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 190
Old Edwards Inn & Half-Mile Farm
Located two hours from Asheville in Highlands, NC, Old Edwards Inn and their sister property, Half-Mile Farm, offers many small venue options for mountain-lovin' couples. The downtown area of the pint-sized town of Highland will remind you of Aspen, with local shops and peak views. Old Edwards Inn is located in the heart of this city, with the top-rated restaurant, Madison's on site. Less than five minutes away is Half-Mile Farm, featuring another inn and cabins for rent. You can say 'I do' in either of these locations and then take your pick from venues. Think: Orchard House, The Barn, Chimney Terrace and Grand Porch, Hutchinson House, Rooftop Terrace and many others. All of these accommodate small parties—and provide an unparalleled level of luxury and comfort.
FOR YOU
Wedding Reception Extras That Will Turn Heads
Put these must-haves on your wedding day checklist.
The Best Way to Have Warm Food at a Wedding
Follow these essential food safety tips for your big day, from heating devices to containers.
102 Fun Wedding Shoe Game Questions for the Reception
Let the games begin!
- Guest Capacity: Up to 120
The Foundry Hotel
Originally a steel mill for the city of Asheville in the early 20th century, this building has been transformed into a modern, beautiful hotel right in the heart of downtown. In addition to onsite dining and catering, classic decor and a variety of venue spaces, your guests can easily stay on property with 100+ rooms and suites available. A small lawn in the courtyard is ideal for a small guest list, followed by a private terrace with Blue Ridge Mountain Views for the cocktail hour. You can continue your celebration outside or book the Savoy Ballroom, which is ideal for up to 50 guests. For a casual wedding dinner (or day-after brunch), The Foundry Hotel's onsite restaurant features an eclectic menu inspired by Southern classics.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 85
Hidden River Events
Finding your forever partner was your fairytale dream come true—and you'll feel swept away to a castle in the mountains at this small wedding venue in Asheville, NC. There is a wide variety of amazing views—think green fields, vibrant blossoms from trees and wildflowers, tall forests of trees and lakeside serenity. The best part of Hidden River Events is it's not too far away from Asheville, but it allows you to feel completely lost in the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. They can accommodate nearly all event sizes but have a special knack for intimate weddings for up to 49 guests. You can truly create whatever you want with an astounding list of options, including event managers, event staffing, locally-grown flowers, five-star catering with five menu items, vacation house rental for up to 60 guests, ceremonies by the river, in flower fields, under a sycamore tree, in an open valley—and more!
- Guest Capacity: Up to 350
Rubicon Farm
Though this small wedding venue is only a short drive from Pinehurst, you'll feel like you took a flight across the Atlantic when you set your sights on this restored 1820s Scottish farmhouse. Their niche offering includes fully-coordinated weddings, all built out of the natural elements of the acres, fields and homes that make up this beautiful property. When it comes to small wedding venues in NC, the wedding team at Rubicon Farm truly stands out; they'll help you create your ideal theme, including the officiant, ceremony, reception, all decor, fresh flowers, photographer, catering and your cake! Their small wedding package allows between 25 and 50 guests and use of the 30-acre property.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 150
Jiddi Space & Courtyard
For a unique urban experience that your guests will be talking about for years to come, consider this historic gem in the heart of downtown Raleigh. Jiddi Space & Courtyard has all the fine details and amenities you crave, all with flair and versatility. Think: exposed brick, high ceilings, a marble-top outdoor bar, a stage for live music and more. You can choose to get married inside or outside with up to 120 seated guests. You can choose from two on-property restaurants for your dinner service: Sitti Authentic Lebanese or Gravy Italian Kitchen. They also provide market lights, tables and chairs, linens and everything you need for catering.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 120
Caffe Luna
If a trip to Tuscany is a little out of your budget, but you want the same Italian countryside ambiance and food, choose this small wedding venue. Caffe Luna can accommodate restaurant wedding ceremonies and fully catered receptions. When you book this space, you're getting full use of the restaurant, including the patio only on Saturdays or Sundays. In addition to original artwork from local artists featured throughout the restaurant, the best part is the cuisine! As one of the top-rated Italian spots in the Triad area, your guests definitely won't leave hungry. There aren't any getting-ready spaces, so keep that in mind when choosing this venue.
- Guest Capacity: 20 to 200
The Graylyn Estate
Situated on 55 acres of beautiful gardens, luscious lawns and canopied trees in Winston-Salem, The Graylyn Estate offers a luxury yet intimate wedding experience for smaller gatherings. It's a boutique hotel that will remind you of a castle, complete with slanted rooftops and turret-style walls, offering a unique backdrop to your special day. They can accommodate up to 125 guests and give you the pick between several indoor and outdoor venues spaces. You can book the White Garden for year-round white blooming flowers or the Rose Garden, featuring a French-style cottage. You can book the Living Room Wing for your reception, with a 15-century carved doorway leading into a ballroom or an outdoor area, like the stone terrace. Best of all: you can choose their all-inclusive wedding package, which includes catering, bar service, an overnight stay and event management.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 125
The Barn at Reynolda Village
Located in the historic Reynolda Village, The Barn at Reynolda Village offers charm and crisp white finishes, giving you a backdrop to create your ideal wedding. When you book here, you receive access to the gardens and grounds, the estate, and the Reynolda House Museum of American Art. Your guests will feel like they've been transported to an English Village as they walk around with champagne in hand. The barn can accommodate large weddings, but they also have micro packages available.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 175
More North Carolina Wedding Venues and Vendor Ideas
Finding a venue can be a lengthy process. For even more inspiration, have a look at these recommendations from our editors for couples planning a North Carolina wedding.
- North Carolina Wedding Venues
- Mountain Wedding Venues in North Carolina
- Affordable Wedding Venues in NC
- Barn Wedding Venues in North Carolina
- Beach Wedding Venues in North Carolina
- How to Get Legally Married in North Carolina
Bonus: Browse The Knot Vendor Marketplace for even more North Carolina venues and vendors. You can find wedding photographers, florists, cake designers and more!
