Small Philly wedding venues have been making a big statement this year.
If your decision to plan an intimate wedding is based on budget constraints, the need for a limited guest count (we’ll call it “VIP”), or your minimalist style, you are in good company. Many wedding couples are choosing this option.
Photo credit: The Sage Farmhouse
There are many perks to this plan. Small weddings in Philadelphia consisting of 50-75 guests or less provide more flexibility to spend quality time with your guests compared to large weddings. Additionally, there is an opportunity to splurge more lavishly on catering or that photography upgrade you dreamed about. Small wedding venues vary greatly from art galleries and gardens to bed and breakfasts and restaurants, providing many choices.
Here are my top five intimate Philadelphia reception venues.
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Photo credit: Duke Sculpture Garden/Lindsay Docherty Photography
Duke Art Gallery
The 100-year-old estate complete with fairytale tower is situated on four-acres of landscaped grounds. Its main building was built in 1889, but you will be met with a warm atmosphere surrounded by original displayed artwork. 414 Plush Mill Road, Wallingford, PA 610.316.2046.
Photo credit: Bartram’s Garden/Allison Dunn
Bartram’s Garden
Imagine an intimate Philly wedding venue with stunning views of the Center City skyline amid 45 acres of botanical gardens near the Schuylkill River in Southwest Philadelphia. Yes, that’s right–Southwest Philadelphia! This historic setting dating back to the 1700s, features the Coach House, the Barn, Brick Courtyard and Common Flower Garden to accommodate guest lists ranging from 20-250 people. 54th Street and Lindbergh Blvd., Philadelphia. 215.729.5281.
Photo credit: Lindsay Docherty Photography
The National Society of Colonial Dames
Tucked away in Center City, the historic home built in 1921 offers a vintage colonial atmosphere with charming antiques, brick, original paintings and colonial color schemes. It even has a beautiful garden for outdoor ceremonies. It can comfortably host small Philadelphia weddings for 10 to 50 guests in a number of finely appointed rooms in the downstairs parlor, or up to 120 guests for a larger reception in its upstairs ballroom. 1630 Latimer Street, Philadelphia, PA. 215.735.6737.
Photo credit: Julia Elizabeth/The Twisted Tail
The Twisted Tail
Imagine your intimate celebration under the historic Shambles at Headhouse Square. The Twisted Tail can make this happen within this romantic brick structure! Located in Philadelphia’s historic Society Hill, The Twisted Tail creates flavorful gastronomic offerings of progressive American fare that will keep you coming back for each anniversary and milestone. 509 S. Second Street, Philadelphia, PA. 215.558-2471
Photo credit: The Sage Farmhouse
The Sage Farmhouse
Blue and lavender hydrangeas outline a lovely brick courtyard centered around a tiered concrete fountain at this rustic Delaware County wedding venue. The lush foliage provides the perfect backdrop for photos throughout the seasons. Inside the 1785 farmhouse with is rich woodwork and wide plank flooring, there is ample room for 110 guests. 5561 Pennell Road, Media. PA. 610.361.9301.
Conclusion
Whatever your reason—budget, guest list, or a love for minimalism—a intimate Philly wedding venues let you focus on what truly matters: meaningful moments with your closest loved ones. And the best part? Many historic Philadelphia wedding venues offer charming, smaller-scale settings that are perfect for creating a personal, unforgettable celebration.
