Hidden Gems: Unique NYC Wedding Venues for Under 75 Guests

A Planner's Guide to Intimate and Unforgettable Spaces

There is a unique magic to an intimate wedding. In a city of millions, gathering your absolute closest friends and family to celebrate your love creates a powerful and deeply personal experience. More and more, we see couples choosing to forgo the massive ballroom in favor of a smaller, more meaningful celebration.

But finding the right wedding space in New York City for a wedding with under 75 guests can be a challenge. How do you find a venue that feels special and celebratory, not just like a private dinner? How do you create that magical atmosphere in a city known for doing everything on a grand scale?

As planners, we live for this challenge. We believe an intimate wedding shouldn't be a downsized version of a larger event, but rather a bespoke experience that is intentional, heartfelt, and completely unforgettable. We've spent years discovering the city's best-kept secrets, and today, we're sharing a few of our favorite hidden gems for the perfect intimate "I do."


Palma


West Village, Manhattan

Why We Love It: Stepping into Palma is like being transported to a rustic villa in the Italian countryside. With its enchanting, flower-filled garden and ivy-clad walls, the restaurant's carriage house is one of the most romantic settings in the city. The space is warm, inviting, and utterly breathtaking, offering a serene escape from the city bustle. The menu, filled with authentic Italian cuisine, only adds to the charm.

Perfect For: The romantic couple dreaming of a candlelit, European-inspired celebration with incredible food and an effortlessly elegant atmosphere.

Capacity: Comfortably accommodates up to 50 guests for a seated dinner in the private carriage house.


Maison May


Fort Greene, Brooklyn

Why We Love It: If you've ever dreamed of getting married in a classic Brooklyn brownstone, Maison May is for you. This restored 19th-century home is the epitome of relaxed elegance. With its charming parlor floor, beautiful handcrafted bar, and a private garden oasis, it feels less like a venue and more like the stunning home of a very chic friend. The farm-to-table culinary program is exquisite and completely customizable.

Perfect For: Couples who want a sophisticated, personal, and quintessentially Brooklyn experience that feels both elevated and intimate.

Capacity: Ideal for seated dinners of up to 50 guests or standing cocktail-style receptions for up to 70.


The Musket Room


Nolita, Manhattan

Why We Love It: For the true foodie couple, The Musket Room offers an unparalleled culinary experience in a stunningly designed space. This Michelin-starred restaurant boasts a lush, secluded back garden and a sophisticated dining room that are perfect for an intimate affair. The focus on thoughtful, New Zealand-inspired cuisine ensures your wedding meal will be a highlight that guests talk about for years.

Perfect For: The modern, food-focused couple that values exceptional cuisine and chic, contemporary design.

Capacity: The private garden can host ceremonies and dinners for up to 40 guests.


A Planner’s Note on Intimate Venues


Choosing a unique, non-traditional venue is an exciting first step. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you plan:

  • Embrace the Space: A smaller venue often comes with its own beautiful character. Work with the existing decor—the exposed brick, the art, the garden—rather than trying to cover it up. This creates a more authentic and cohesive design.

  • Logistics are Key: Restaurants and galleries may have different rules than traditional venues regarding load-in times for vendors, music amplification, and floor plans. A planner can navigate these logistics to ensure a seamless flow for your day.

  • Elevate the Guest Experience: The beauty of a smaller guest list is the ability to splurge on the details. Consider handwritten menus, a top-shelf bar, personalized welcome gifts, or an interactive food station. With fewer guests, you can make every single person feel truly cherished.


Let Us Help You Find Your Hidden Gem


The venues listed here are just the beginning. New York City is filled with incredible, undiscovered spaces perfect for a beautiful, bespoke wedding celebration. Finding them is what we do best.

If you’re dreaming of an intimate wedding that is rich in personality and style, we would love to help you bring it to life. Contact us today to begin your planning journey.

Dave Chung