As we have learned this past year, life’s greatest moments still happen, even if we can’t all be together. Finding meaningful ways to still celebrate is about prioritizing what matters to you most and starting from there. Even as we continue reopening and rejoining each other, intimate weddings are still in! A shift to more intimate weddings is simply a shift in what people value and more focus on the people you gather. And the silver-lining of planning for smaller guests counts – the table seating chart is no longer a headache, two ibuprofen, and a bottle of chardonnay. It also gives you space to be more intentional with where you seat your guests. If you’re now having a seated dinner for only 20 compared to 200, you can ensure everyone has a seat they will love. You can sit Aunt Deborah next to your new sister-in-law, Sarah, because you know they both have fabulous knitting patterns to discuss over a frisée salad. You can also more easily personalize the experience for each guest, such as hand-written notes at each place setting.
If you’re looking to have an intimate wedding with a destination feel, Savannah, Georgia is the ultimate Southern staple because of its natural blend of small-town charm and big-time experience – all within driving distance. Steeped in history and picturesque moments around every corner, Savannah has its own intimate quality in itself, which makes it all the more perfect for smaller weddings in today’s times. I’ve pulled together my short list of Savannah spaces fit for intimate weddings, but believe me there is oh so much more to this Southern destination.
JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District – For accommodations, check in to the JW Marriott Savannah, part of the esteemed Kessler Collection, at The Plant Riverside District. The original power plant running along the river has been repurposed as a contemporary riverside retreat while retaining its unique architectural features. The expansive lobby, complete with a life-size, chrome-dipped dinosaur, is home to many restaurants, an art gallery and vibrant rooftop lounge.
Forsyth Park – This iconic Savannah setting is ideal for any quintessential Southern nuptials. You can keep it casual or have a more elaborate tent wedding. My personal favorite moments inside the park are the Fragrant Garden for a traditional ceremony, followed by a fabulous dinner in the modern half-shell theatre. There’s a little something for everyone. Trés chic!
Savannah’s Historic Squares – As the pride of Savannah, nothing captures a truly intimate feeling quite like its 22 historic squares and parks. Any of these locations would make the perfect place for sharing your vows, but keep in mind the foot traffic and street noise in each area. For these reasons, I recommend Columbia Square complete with fountain or Whitefield Square with a gazebo. For a sweet treat as you stroll, stop by Savannah Square Pops near Pulaski Square for fab hand-crafted popsicles in 22 fab flavors!
Armstrong Kessler Mansion – Constructed in 1919, The Armstrong mansion has been brought back to it’s grandeur by the Kessler Collection hotelier group and is available for exclusive events. The back courtyard is a stunning space for any soirée with a marble pool as a backdrop. The mansion also offers guest suites for the weekend so you can stay on property.
Savannah Riverboat Cruises – For the right couple, Savannah Riverboat Cruises offers a nostalgic, all-inclusive experience with sweeping views of the city and the Talmadge bridge. You and your guests can step into another era on board either the Savannah River Queen or the Georgia Queen with a ceremony on the top deck at sunset, and the reception just steps away.
The Olde Pink House – A cornerstone of Savannah’s fine dining, the Olde Pink House takes up a city block and is perched on Reynolds Square. Though tales of haunting are entertaining, guests return for the exceptional food and refined service. Marry right in Reynolds Square and choose any of the private dining rooms or the ballroom for your reception. The entire mansion can be available, but we’ll save that for a later date.
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