Not every couple dreams of a 200-guest ballroom wedding. For many, love feels best celebrated in a cozy, intimate setting—like a favorite restaurant. Small weddings held in restaurants are becoming more and more popular in Austin and across the Texas Hill Country, and it’s easy to see why: built-in atmosphere, amazing food, and a relaxed, personal vibe.
If you’re considering a restaurant wedding, here are my best tips to make it both stress-free and unforgettable.
1. Choose the Right Restaurant for Your Style
Your restaurant sets the tone for your entire wedding. Think about the kind of experience you want:
- Romantic & Upscale: Fine-dining restaurants with private dining rooms.
- Laid-back & Fun: Breweries, farm-to-table cafés, or quirky Austin eateries.
- Cultural Connection: Restaurants that highlight your family’s heritage—perfect for blending traditions and menus.
Pro tip: Ask about buying out the entire space for the evening. Many restaurants are more flexible than you’d think, especially on weekdays or off-season dates.
2. Don’t Skip the Ceremony Spot
Restaurants are amazing for receptions, but you’ll still need to think about where you’ll exchange vows. Some couples:
- Hold a short ceremony in the restaurant courtyard, patio, or private dining space.
- Say “I do” at a nearby park, chapel, or courthouse, then celebrate at the restaurant.
- Use creative setups like a floral arch in front of the restaurant’s main entrance.
3. Maximize the Built-In Décor
Restaurants already have character—wood tables, chandeliers, murals, or greenery—so you don’t need to overdecorate. A few touches go a long way:
- Candles or fairy lights to add romance.
- A simple floral runner down family-style tables.
- Personalized menus or custom cocktail signage.
This is one place where “less is more” saves both time and money.
4. Work With the Chef on a Unique Menu
Food is the highlight of a restaurant wedding! Skip the standard plated chicken and embrace what the restaurant does best:
- Shared tapas or mezze boards for communal dining.
- Family-style platters of local favorites.
- Late-night bites or dessert bars (donut walls, churro carts, or espresso martinis).
Don’t be afraid to ask about signature cocktails or custom wine pairings—the chef and bartender may love the chance to get creative for your big day.
5. Keep Guest Comfort in Mind
With smaller spaces, comfort is key:
- Make sure there’s enough seating for everyone.
- Ask about sound systems (restaurants aren’t always built for speeches or DJs).
- Plan for temperature control if you’re using an outdoor patio.
6. Hire a Day-Of Coordinator
Even in a small restaurant setting, there are still vendors to manage—florists, photographers, musicians—and a timeline to keep on track. Having a day-of coordinator ensures you and your guests can simply enjoy the celebration while someone else manages the details.
At Wildflower Weddings TX, I’ve helped couples turn restaurant spaces across Austin into magical wedding venues. From managing vendor arrivals to timing the first dance, I make sure the night flows smoothly so you can focus on the joy.
Final Thoughts
Small weddings in restaurants are intimate, stylish, and packed with personality. With the right planning (and the right coordinator!), you can transform your favorite eatery into the perfect wedding venue.
💌 Thinking about a restaurant wedding in Austin or the Hill Country? Contact Wildflower Weddings TX to learn more about day-of and month-of coordination packages designed for intimate celebrations.