The Best California Venues for Micro Weddings: Private Estates, VRBO, & More
When you imagine your wedding day, the backdrop matters just as much as the vows. For couples planning a micro wedding in California, the good news is you have endless venue possibilities that go far beyond traditional ballrooms. From charming private estates to unique Airbnbs, California offers some of the most breathtaking and customizable options for couples who want their wedding to feel intimate, stylish, and unforgettable.
At Marigold Micro Weddings, we specialize in transforming these non-traditional spaces into fully functioning wedding venues. Here is our guide to the best types of California venue types for your micro wedding.
1) Private Estates for Micro Weddings
Imagine exchanging vows in the garden of a historic home or hosting dinner under string lights on a sprawling property with a view. Private estates are a favorite choice for micro weddings because they offer:
Privacy for your celebration
Space to host both ceremony and reception in one location
A one of a kind luxurious atmosphere
Planner Tip: Estates often need extra planning support. Think rentals, bar service, or catering setups. That's where a full-service planner (like us!) come in to turn the property into a polished, guest-ready venue.
2) Rental Homes Turned Venues
Couples love the “home away from home” feel of short-term rentals. Whether it’s a modern beach house, a vineyard escape, or a cozy mountain cabin, rental homes & property can double as both accommodations and your wedding venue.
Benefits of VRBO weddings:
Built-in overnight accommodations for wedding weekend vibes
Flexibility to create your own floor plan and flow
Perfect for smaller guest count (20-50)
Planner Tip: Always confirm with the host that events are allowed. From there, we handle the logistics: bringing in the rentals, coordinating catering, and ensuring the space is celebration ready.
3) Gardens & Outdoor Venues
California’s weather makes outdoor venues a dream for intimate weddings. Think botanical gardens, wineries or even tucked-away city parks with permits. These locations highlight California’s natural beauty and create a relaxed yet elegant setting.
4) Boutique Hotels & Inns
For couples who love the idea of convenience and design-forward spaces, boutique hotels and inns are hidden gems. They often feature stylish decor, built-in catering, and charming spaces perfect for micro gatherings. Guests can also stay on-site, turning your celebration into a wedding weekend experience.
Why Non-Traditional Venues Shine for Micro Weddings
The magic of micro weddings is flexibility. Without the pressure of 200+ guests, you have the freedom to say yes to venues that truly reflect your personalities. Whether that’s a private estate in Napa, and Airbnb by the coast, or a chic boutique hotel in Los Angeles, these venues allow your love story to take center stage.
At Marigold Micro Weddings, we specialize in turning these unique spaces into fully styled, stress-free wedding venues. Our in-house planning, bar service, floral, and rentals mean you don’t have to worry about piecing it all together yourself. We’ve got you covered!
Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect California Micro Wedding Venue
Choosing the right venue is the foundation of your wedding day, and in California, your options are as limitless as the landscapes. With the right planner by your side, even a simple rental property or backyard can become a stunning and seamless celebration.
Ready to explore the perfect venue for your micro wedding? Contact us today to start planning your intimate California wedding with Marigold Micro Weddings!
