If you’ve recently gotten engaged and the thought of planning a wedding for 200 people sounds more overwhelming than exciting, you’re not alone.
Over the last few years, I’ve seen more and more couples choose smaller, more intentional celebrations. Less pressure, less rushing around, and more time spent with the people who matter most. As someone who has photographed weddings around Vancouver Island for years, some of the most meaningful wedding days I’ve witnessed have also been the smallest.
If you’re dreaming of a celebration that feels personal, beautiful, and true to you, here are a few small wedding venues around Victoria, BC worth exploring.

There’s a reason Sea Cider continues to be one of the most loved wedding venues on Vancouver Island.
Set among the orchards with sweeping views of the ocean, it manages to feel elegant while still maintaining a relaxed West Coast atmosphere. The property offers stunning scenery in every direction, making it an incredible choice for couples who want beautiful views without sacrificing intimacy.
If you’re planning a smaller wedding, Sea Cider offers the perfect balance of sophistication and warmth.
Bilston Creek Farm is one of those places that feels like you’ve stumbled upon a secret.
Located in Metchosin, this charming farm offers lavender fields, heritage buildings, beautiful gardens, and a peaceful atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s especially magical during lavender season, but the property has a timeless beauty throughout the year.
For couples looking for something romantic, relaxed, and uniquely Vancouver Island, Bilston Creek is worth a visit.

If your dream wedding involves incredible food, local cider, and beautiful countryside views, Merridale might be the perfect fit.
Located in the Cowichan Valley, the property combines orchard views, charming event spaces, and a welcoming atmosphere that feels ideal for smaller celebrations. Guests can enjoy the full experience without ever needing to leave the property.
It’s the kind of venue where the celebration feels less like an event and more like a gathering.
Few venues can compete with the views at Villa Eyrie.
Perched high above the Saanich Inlet, the resort offers breathtaking scenery that makes every wedding feel like a destination wedding. The mountain views, elegant accommodations, and romantic setting create a memorable experience for both couples and guests.
For couples wanting a dramatic backdrop without leaving Vancouver Island, Villa Eyrie is hard to beat.

Vineyard weddings never seem to go out of style, and Church & State Wines is a beautiful example of why.
The winery offers rolling vineyard views, elegant event spaces, and a relaxed atmosphere that works particularly well for intimate weddings. It feels refined without feeling stuffy, making it a great choice for couples who want something both beautiful and approachable.
Starling Lane Winery feels like one of those venues that somehow remains a little under the radar.
Nestled among the vines in Central Saanich, it offers a relaxed and romantic setting that feels distinctly Vancouver Island. The property is beautifully maintained, with vineyard views, charming outdoor spaces, and a peaceful atmosphere that lends itself naturally to smaller celebrations.
For couples looking for a venue that feels intimate without sacrificing beauty, Starling Lane strikes a wonderful balance.
Tucked away in North Saanich, Deep Cove Winery offers a quiet elegance that many couples are searching for.
Surrounded by vineyards and countryside views, it provides a beautiful setting for couples who want their wedding to feel personal and relaxed. It feels a little removed from the busier parts of the city, which only adds to its charm.
It’s an ideal choice for couples who love the idea of a vineyard wedding but want something that feels intimate and unhurried.

If you’re looking for a venue that feels uniquely Vancouver Island, Birds Eye Cove Farm deserves a spot on your list.
Located near Maple Bay, this stunning property combines ocean views, open fields, heritage farm buildings, and a beautiful sense of space. It feels rustic without being overly rustic and elegant without feeling formal.
It’s the kind of venue that creates an unforgettable backdrop while still allowing the focus to remain on the people gathered there.
Every couple has a different vision for their wedding day.
Some care most about incredible food. Others prioritize scenery, guest experience, or having a venue that feels private and relaxed.
As you begin touring venues, try asking yourselves one simple question:
How do we want our wedding day to feel?
The answer often narrows the options surprisingly quickly.

Most people consider a small wedding to be between 20 and 75 guests, although every couple defines it a little differently.
They often can be. A smaller guest list usually means lower catering, rental, and venue costs, allowing couples to prioritize the elements that matter most to them.
Many popular venues book 12–18 months in advance, especially for summer and early fall weddings.
Late spring through early fall tends to offer the most reliable weather, though Vancouver Island weddings can be beautiful year-round.

One of my favourite things about smaller weddings is how present they allow people to be.
There is often more time for meaningful conversations, more room for spontaneity, and less pressure to perform for a large crowd. At the end of the day, most couples aren’t looking back wishing they had invited more people. They’re remembering how it felt to marry their person surrounded by the people they love most.
If you’re newly engaged and starting your venue search, hopefully this list gives you a few beautiful places to begin. Some of my favourite weddings have happened at venues just like these, small, intentional, and filled with the people who matter most. If you’re planning a celebration that feels more about connection than perfection, I’d love to hear what you’re dreaming up.
