Venue Series: Microweddings
I’ve previously written about how the COVID-19 pandemic has helped to popularize elopements as couples faced multiple postponements of traditional weddings due to ongoing health concerns. But elopements aren’t the only wedding trend that has emerged in the last couple of years - microweddings (or minomonies, as some call them!) are having a true moment. Microweddings differ from elopements in that they generally still feature some of the traditional wedding components (wedding cake, a true “venue,” flowers, etc.), but the defining characteristic is a very small guest list.
Today’s venue series features some of the coolest microwedding options in the Seattle area. Keep in mind that a lot of larger venues have started offering microwedding packages as well for couples who want the best of both worlds!
Canlis
Seattle, WA
Capacity: 25-80 seated, 25-110 standing (two different space options)
Price: $300+ room fee, $1,500-$6,000 F&B minimum
The Seattle food scene has exploded in the last decade, but before the modern concepts and Eater features there was Canlis. A true Seattle culinary institution, Canlis also offers private event opportunities in two different spaces. Bonus points for the gorgeous Lake Union view from the Penthouse!
Photos (L to R): The Popes Photography, Canlis
The Lab at Ada’s
Seattle, WA
Capacity: 26-35 seated, up to 43 standing
Price: $1,300+
This one is on my officiating bucket list. It’s just so cool! Located in North Capitol Hill (aka Eastlake), The Lab features an epic vegetarian menu with great options for dietary restrictions, flexible seating options, and a generally dark, scientific aesthetic (yes, you read that right).
The Micro Venue
Seattle, WA
Capacity: 10 including couple
Price: $3,850+
Husband and wife duo Sean and Laura run this beautiful and timeless dedicated event space in Ballard. They offer packages that include flowers, an officiant (maybe it’ll be me!), a photographer, wedding cake, sparkling wine, and general design/coordination. You can go for an elopement (just the two of you) or a minimony with up to 10 guests. They also offer personalized packages for other events.
Photos (L to R): WeddingWire, Spencer LaHaye via The Micro Venue
TreeHouse Point
Issaquah, WA
Capacity: 20-80
Price: elopement packages start at $4,200, wedding packages start at $9,500 (more pricing info here)
By far one of the coolest options in the PNW, TreeHouse Point occupies four acres in Issaquah (almost Fall City). The property boasts seven actual treehouses and they offer both elopement and wedding packages. The prices might seem high for smaller weddings, but they include accommodations (weddings for 20-80 include exclusive access to the entire property with overnight accommodations/breakfast for up to 20 guests!).
Photos (L to R): Lloyd Photographers via TreeHouse Point, Crozier Photography via TreeHouse Point
Bonus: Seattle Tiny Wedding
Seattle, WA
Capacity: up to 30; up to 50 for extra fee
Price: varies by venue/date; generally $5,000+
While not technically a venue itself, Seattle Tiny Wedding (STW) offers the ultimate microwedding experience. They select venues like Metropolist on pre-set dates and offer blocks of time to couples who want to sign up for all-inclusive tiny weddings for up to 30 guests. STW packages include planning, the venue/necessary rentals, flowers, photography, a livestream for guests who can’t make it, an officiant, digital invitations, cake, and champagne. The time blocks are 90 minutes, giving you time for both your ceremony and a mini reception with your guests. Add-on options include paper invitations, additional food & beverage, and more.