South Africa offers a breathtaking backdrop for an intimate wedding, from sun-drenched vineyards to secluded coastal retreats. Discover a curated selection of small wedding venues in South Africa, perfect for couples dreaming of a personal celebration. Whether you envision a boutique hotel in Cape Town or a private game lodge in the bush, the ideal setting for your close-knit gathering awaits, promising unforgettable moments in a stunning atmosphere. Read moreThese smaller venues specialise in creating a cosy and exclusive experience, ensuring every detail of your day is perfectly tailored. With fewer guests, you can focus on what truly matters: celebrating your love with your nearest and dearest. Explore spaces that offer bespoke packages, gourmet dining, and unparalleled service, making your intimate South African wedding a truly unique and cherished event.
Cape Town, City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality
Our large open-plan dining room, intimate olive tree courtyard, and sweeping balcony with uninterrupted views of Table Mountain make for an almost too-good to be true wedding space.
Where dreams come true…
Nestled between the hills in Kruisriver, just outside Uitenhage, Plumbago Hills’ unique blend of stylish elegance and country charm creates the perfect setting for the wedding of a lifetime.
Cape Town, City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality
Veld and Sea offers a rustic nature-inspired wedding venue resting against the beautiful fynbos mountains
of the South Peninsula and bordering the Cape Point Nature Reserve.
Cape Town, City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality
If you are looking for somewhere to host your next fabulous wedding, look no further. The Birdcage at Chocolat Bistro is equipped to provide that certain je ne sais quoi to any celebratory affair.
Cape Town, City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality
Kolping Guest House offers an excellent wedding venue catering to your every wish. The property lends itself to small intimate wedding gatherings or larger groups of up to 60 guests comfortably.
Celebrate your special day with us at our unique and versatile wedding venue, situated in a coastal forest just 2 minutes drive from 12 km of pristine beaches, simply perfect for wedding photographs.
The View Boutique Hotel & Spa in the Amanzimtoti area is truly a romantic setting for your wedding day. This 5 Star Boutique Hotel offers a variety of wedding venue options
South Africa's diverse landscapes offer unique settings for a smaller celebration.
Winelands Wonders: Boutique wine estates in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek provide romantic, exclusive settings.
Coastal Charms: Secluded beach lodges along the Garden Route or West Coast offer breathtaking ocean views.
Bushveld Bliss: Private game reserves and luxury safari lodges create an unforgettable backdrop for your vows.
City Chic: Stylish boutique hotels and private villas in Cape Town or Johannesburg offer modern elegance.
Planning Your Day:
Legalities: To marry in South Africa, you'll need valid passports and, if applicable, divorce decrees. You must have two witnesses present. Many venues offer assistance with the paperwork.
Guest Lists: An intimate wedding (typically under 50 guests) allows for more personalised experiences and a bigger budget per head.
Suppliers: Focus on suppliers who specialise in smaller, bespoke events to enhance the personal feel of your day.
Venue hire for an intimate wedding in South Africa can vary widely based on location and exclusivity.
Dry Hire: Expect to pay from R20,000 to R60,000 for exclusive use of a smaller venue space, without catering or extras.
Package Deals: All-inclusive packages for 20-50 guests can range from R80,000 to R250,000+, often including catering and basic decor.
Mid-week Savings: Booking your intimate celebration on a weekday can often lead to significant cost reductions.
Budgeting Tips for Intimate Weddings:
Prioritise Spending: With fewer guests, you can allocate more budget to elements that matter most, like gourmet food or incredible photography.
All-Inclusive Venues: These can be more cost-effective as they bundle services and reduce the need to hire multiple vendors.
Hidden Costs: Always ask about potential extra costs like service fees, gratuities, and charges for bringing in your own suppliers.
South Africa's climate varies by region, so picking the right season is key.
Western Cape (e.g., Cape Town): Best from November to March for warm, dry summer days.
Gauteng (e.g., Johannesburg): Enjoys dry, sunny winters and warm summers with afternoon thunderstorms.
KwaZulu-Natal Coast: Humid and subtropical year-round, with hot summers and mild, dry winters.
Seasonal Considerations:
Summer (Dec-Feb): Peak season. Perfect for outdoor ceremonies, but have a backup plan for rain or wind.
Autumn (Mar-May): Often considered the best time, with mild temperatures and beautiful colours.
Winter (Jun-Aug): Great for finding venue deals and enjoying cosy, fireplace settings. Ideal for safari weddings.
Spring (Sep-Nov): Wildflower season in the Western Cape provides a stunning natural backdrop.
Ensuring your guests can travel easily is important for a destination wedding.
Major Airports: O.R. Tambo (Johannesburg), Cape Town International, and King Shaka (Durban) are the main international hubs.
Getting Around: Renting cars is the most common way to travel between cities and to venues outside urban centres.
Local Transport: Ride-sharing services are widely available in major cities for local trips.
Accommodation for Small Groups:
Venue Stays: Many intimate venues, like private villas or lodges, offer exclusive-use accommodation for your entire guest list.
Boutique Hotels: Recommend nearby boutique hotels or guesthouses that offer a personalised experience.
Group Bookings: Enquire about block-booking discounts at nearby hotels, even for a smaller number of rooms.
FAQ's
What is considered a 'small' or 'intimate' wedding in South Africa?
Generally, an intimate wedding in South Africa hosts 50 guests or fewer. This size allows for a more personal experience and often opens up unique venue possibilities that can't accommodate larger crowds, such as boutique hotels, private villas, or exclusive-use safari lodges.
Do I need a wedding planner for a small wedding in South Africa?
While not essential, a planner can be invaluable, especially for a destination wedding. They have local knowledge, supplier connections, and can manage legalities, allowing you to enjoy the planning process. For a smaller wedding, some planners offer partial planning or day-of coordination services.
What are the legal requirements for getting married in South Africa as a non-resident?
Foreign nationals can legally marry in South Africa. You will need to present your valid passports and a BI-31 form (Declaration for the Purpose of Marriage). If either party has been divorced or widowed, the final decree of divorce or death certificate is required. All documents not in English must be officially translated.
Are there noise restrictions at intimate venues I should be aware of?
Yes, most venues, especially those in residential areas or nature reserves, have noise policies and curfews, typically around 10 PM or 11 PM. It's crucial to discuss this with your venue beforehand to ensure it aligns with your entertainment plans for the evening.
Can I have an outdoor ceremony at a small venue in South Africa?
Absolutely. South Africa's stunning scenery makes it perfect for outdoor ceremonies. However, the weather can be unpredictable. Always ensure your chosen venue has a suitable and equally beautiful indoor alternative or a marquee option as a contingency plan.
How far in advance should I book an intimate wedding venue?
Even for a smaller wedding, it's wise to book your venue 9-12 months in advance, especially if you're getting married during the popular summer season (December-February) or on a weekend. Highly sought-after intimate venues can get booked up quickly.
