Whether you’re just starting to plan your wedding or you’re several months into researching your details, you have likely considered your guest list. After all, these are the family members and friends who will surround you on one of your most important days! But the critical thing to keep in mind as you decide whom to invite is the number of people on your guest list largely determines how much of your budget is available to put toward must-haves other than your venue and menu. If you’re feeling as though a packed room with hundreds of people is suddenly not something you would like to pursue, you’re not alone. That’s why many couples discover intimate weddings.

Intimate weddings stretch far beyond simply choosing to celebrate in a cozy setting. Instead, one of the key aspects of an intimate wedding day is the number of people you invite to your soiree. Typically, intimate weddings are capped at no more than 50 guests. The result is a celebration that’s still packed with all of the details but with one big difference: Only those who are closest to you are in attendance. The result is a beautiful wedding day where you have more time to interact with each guest and an incredible opportunity to create a memorable night for everyone on your list.

If you feel like an intimate wedding day is something you would like to explore in Atlanta, I thought I would share the top five venues where you should consider hosting it. With that in mind, let’s dive in!

Crowne Plaza at Ravinia

Located just outside of the heart of Atlanta’s downtown in Dunwoody is the Crowne Plaza at Ravinia. The hotel recently completed an extensive renovation, and now every interior space embraces truly modern design. Of course, that extends to the ballroom spaces. There are two expansive ballrooms for weddings, and both offer the opportunity for you (and your team of wedding professionals) to truly transform them into any wedding style. The right draping can create a cozy atmosphere inside, and there are also outdoor spaces available for ceremonies and more. Plus, the Crowne Plaza at Ravinia’s team is on hand to create a delicious meal for everyone on your guest list.

Epicurean Hotel

Just like its name would suggest, the Epicurean Hotel is for foodies. As the team notes, “size doesn’t matter” at this hotel. They have plenty of spaces at the ready for events of any size, including intimate wedding days. Plus, there’s a rooftop terrace that’s waiting to host ceremonies, cocktail hours, and more! Guests and wedding parties can plan to stay onsite leading up to, during, and even after your wedding day to continue to experience Atlanta. But keep in mind that everyone might not want to dine anywhere other than the Epicurean, thanks to their incredibly thoughtful menus.

Four Seasons Atlanta

If creating a luxurious experience is high on your list, don’t miss the Four Seasons Atlanta. Just like the brand notes, the hotel toes the line between traditionally Southern and beautifully modern, and its Midtown location is hard to beat. What I love most about the Four Seasons Atlanta, however, is its many spaces for intimate weddings. Although there is a ballroom available, there are also other spaces, like a penthouse suite, a sun-drenched room, and a cozy hall for you to consider. Of course, this Atlanta wedding venue wouldn’t be complete without not one but two exterior terraces for ceremonies and receptions!

Foxhall Resort

Although the city has plenty to offer, there’s definitely an allure that surrounds creating a destination wedding experience for your guests outside of Atlanta’s bustling center. That’s why many couples love Foxhall Resort. It’s located in Douglasville, Georgia, which isn’t far from Atlanta, but it feels like a world away thanks to towering trees and plenty of space to roam. The resort has a few areas for intimate weddings, including The Paddock (think: multiple fireplaces, floor-to-ceiling windows, and an expansive porch) as well as The Clubhouse (think: natural light, a beautiful patio, and a location right next to the pool). Of course, there are outdoor locations too! Foxhall Resort is one to consider if you want to offer everyone a chance to escape and connect together.

St Regis Atlanta

When a hotel is known for its optional butler service experience, you know the team understands luxury! And that’s definitely true at the St. Regis Atlanta. The hotel’s plush rooms and suites are a treat for guests who are able to enjoy them, and there are also wedding spaces at the hotel — so you and your guests never have to leave for your celebration. Plan to consider the Grand Terrace for your ceremony (you will feel as if you’ve escaped to Europe) and then retreat inside one of the ballrooms or either of the inviting restaurant spaces to continue to embrace the intimate feel of your day. With the St Regis Atlanta team behind the details, you know no stone will be left unturned.

With these spaces in mind, are you now eagerly considering an intimate wedding day? Where would you host your celebration? I cannot wait to learn more.