Discover the Hidden Gems for Your South Dakota Small Wedding

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Are you ready to uncover the most enchanting, intimate small wedding venues South Dakota? Get ready to be wowed by our carefully curated list of 15 breathtaking small wedding venues, ranging from luxurious hotels to cozy inns.

We’ve scoured the state to find these hidden gems just for you. And that’s not all – we’ve got some fantastic tips to help you choose the ideal venue and ensure your big day is not only beautiful but an absolutely incredible experience too.

Let’s embark on this South Dakota wedding adventure together! 💍✨

15 Beautiful Small SD Wedding Venues

1. The Veranda – Sioux Falls Wedding Venues

Discover The Veranda, a hidden gem among Sioux Falls wedding venues. This modern farmhouse-style location offers rustic charm and exceptional versatility, making it the ideal choice for an intimate and picturesque wedding.

With amenities like a Bridal Suite, Groom’s Lounge, on-site ceremony area, fireside bar, and a spacious patio, The Veranda provides the perfect backdrop for your special day. Enjoy the tranquil orchard setting and excellent lighting that enhances both day and night events. You’ll also benefit from the expertise of our experienced and professional staff.

Due to its popularity, it’s advisable to book well in advance, and please be aware that there are no in-house catering services. Choose The Veranda for an enchanting wedding experience that seamlessly blends modern and rustic aesthetics.

2. The Beaver Creek Chapel

If you’re planning an intimate wedding in South Dakota, look no further than Beaver Creek Wedding Chapel. Nestled within a picturesque apple orchard, this charming venue offers a truly enchanting garden-like setting that can transform your special day into a fairytale. Among its standout features are the historic turn-of-the-century schoolhouse bridal suite, which adds a touch of vintage elegance, and an expansive 55-acre property that provides endless photo opportunities to capture your cherished moments.

The Beaver Creek Chapel offers flexibility by allowing you to choose your officiant and provides a sound system and piano for your ceremony. With its pristine countryside setting, accessibility from May to October, and unique amenities, this venue creates a truly special atmosphere for your wedding day.

Photo Credit: Kelsey Jade Photography

3. Spearfish Canyon Wedding

Dreaming of an intimate wedding surrounded by nature’s splendor? Look no further than Spearfish Canyon Lodge, a scenic gem in South Dakota! This venue, located at 10619 Roughlock Falls Rd, Lead, SD 57754, offers a unique mix of indoor and outdoor settings guaranteed to add a magical touch to your special day. With stunning backdrops of the Black Hills and Spearfish Creek, your wedding photos will be picture-perfect.

Providing accommodations for up to 150 guests, the Lodge also offers 43 well-appointed rooms and suites, ideal for turning your wedding celebration into a mini-vacation for your loved ones. The Lodge’s staff is committed to personalizing your wedding, making each ceremony a one-of-a-kind experience. Enjoy group discounts for guests and full-lodge options to make the most out of your wedding event.

Photo Credit: Kellie Saunders Photography

4. Lazy J Grand Lodge

Say “I do” at the Lazy J Grand Lodge in Ideal, South Dakota. This 4th-generation family farm stretches across a whopping 2,560 acres of open prairie. The lodge’s blend of natural light, rolling country hills, and traditional comforts make it an ideal spot for both indoor and outdoor weddings.

It can accommodate more than 200 guests, making it perfect for small-to-medium weddings. Featuring a 5-star rating from previous users, this venue creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere for your special day. However, the pricing details are not publicly disclosed, so make sure to contact them to get a quote.

5. State Game Lodge

Nestled in the heart of the Black Hills within Custer State Park Resort, you’ll fall in love with the lodge’s natural beauty and refined rustic ambiance. The venue is located at 13389 US Highway 16A, Custer, SD 57730, and can accommodate intimate weddings with a guest count that varies depending on the chosen location within the lodge.

Although prices vary based on the selected location and additional services, it offers seasonal specials and lodging discounts to turn your wedding day into a memorable weekend experience.

6. Black Hills Rally Weddings – Sturgis

Looking to make your special day fun yet stress-free? Black Hills Rally Weddings in Sturgis, South Dakota is just the ticket. They offer three affordable packages that incorporate everything you need – from a lush outdoor venue to decorations and seating, and even a photographer.

Amp up the excitement with their biker-themed weddings available during the Sturgis Rally. You can reach them at 20749 Bauer Ave, Sturgis, SD, 57785, US. Their venue can make room for up to 300 guests. Connect with them via email at [email protected] or call at (605) 490-0900.

7. Summer Creek Inn – Rapid City

Check out Summer Creek Inn in Rapid City for your special day. This upscale inn and spa offers incredible services for both brides and grooms, making it perfect whether your wedding is an intimate gathering or a grand celebration.

8. Castlewood Resort

Castlewood Resort is your answer! Located in the serene town of Castlewood, this venue can host a quaint wedding, capping at a comfy 50 guests. Here’s a portrait of what it offers:

• Boasts a clubhouse with a panoramic view of the pristine golf course.
• The resort’s restaurant and bar deliver delicious nibbles and drinks, ensuring your guests’ satisfaction.
• Encapsulates the charm of small-town South Dakota while offering a modern and polished venue.

Address: Castlewood, SD

Max Guest Count: 50

Price Range: $$$

Photo Credit: Studio LB

9. The Homestead at Prairie Berry Winery – Hill City

Why not plan your perfect, quaint wedding at The Homestead at Prairie Berry Winery in South Dakota? This venue, known for easy planning and its excellent staff, can turn your wedding dreams into reality.

With features like open lawns, breathtaking views, and both indoor and outdoor event areas, it offers a versatility that is hard to match. Enjoy the added country touch with a covered porch for picture-perfect moments and delectable on-site food and drink options.

• Scenic open lawns
• Breathtaking regional views
• Covered porch for photoshoots
• Tented patio for warmer seasons
• Large indoor areas for dining and dancing

It’s found at 12138 Ray Smith Dr, Hill City, SD 57745.

Do note, that specific details about venue capacity and price ranges may vary and should be confirmed directly with the venue.

10. Buffalo Ridge Resort & Spa

Look no further than Buffalo Ridge Resort & Spa for your intimate wedding dream venue! Nestled near the Minnesota border in Gary, South Dakota, this historic gem boasts rustic charm with red brick exteriors and stunning natural landscapes.

The venue, with roots as a school for the visually impaired, now radiates a joyous ambiance, ideal for your milestone event. Venue features include The Courtyard with a capacity of 160, The South Lawn accommodating up to 300 guests, and The Intimate Rustic Field for smaller gatherings of 150.

Pricing is customizable, and the resort provides diverse services like on-site catering, event planning, and more for your convenience.

11. Custer State Park Pavilion & Resort – Custer

Get hitched at the Custer State Park Pavilion & Resort in the Black Hills! This beauty is the master of all – it has stunning outdoor locations, rustic indoor spaces, and even a lakeside ceremony option. Fancy a wedding beneath towering trees? They’ve got you covered.

The venue provides a full-service catering program and a bar service to appease your palate. Plus, there’s room for a good dance session post a satisfying meal. And did I mention the seasonal specials that might help you score lodging discounts? You’re set to transform your wedding day into a thrilling weekend-long encounter.

Top features include:

• Diverse indoor and outdoor ceremony spots
• Full-service catering program and bar service
• Lodging discounts for a potentially weekend-long celebration

12. The Canton Barn – Canton

Looking for an intimate and charming wedding venue in South Dakota? The Canton Barn, located just south of Sioux Falls and a mile north of Canton town, might just be the perfect spot. Draped in a rustic design, it adds a dash of elegance with its striking natural woodwork and elegant lighting. This venue is a marvel, whether you’re planning an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration.

Top features:

• Splendid setting with stunning sunset views
• Adaptability: Can dress up or down for your event
• Unique photo opportunities
• Assistance in event planning with trusted vendors
• Ceremony options both indoors and outdoors
• Superb natural surroundings
• Can accommodate large to small weddings
• Flexible to match your decor preferences
• Offers a wealth of unique photo backdrops
• Provides event coordination and vendor recommendations

While the Canton Barn boasts numerous strengths, keep in mind that it might be booked during peak wedding seasons, has limited indoor space for massive weddings, and its rustic style may not suit all couples. Additionally, it’s located a bit far from the hustle of Sioux Falls, and some of its outdoor ceremony spaces are weather-dependent.

Address: 28079 481st Ave, Canton, SD 57013

Capacity: Suitable for small to medium-sized weddings.

Price Range: Contact the venue for pricing details.

13. Muley Hill Lodge

Muley Hill Lodge in Sturgis, South Dakota is your dream location. Nestled among nature, it offers a serene setting for couples to tie the knot. A few of its top features include an outdoor amphitheater, a glass-enclosed pavilion, and an enchanting pond. You can find the venue at 20829 Mattson Ln, Sturgis, SD 57785.

Able to accommodate up to 200 guests, it’s ideal for those desiring a relaxed, mountain-style wedding. With such beauty and versatility, Muley Hill Lodge ensures a truly unique celebration.

14. The History Club

Introducing The History Club, your go-to small wedding venue in Sioux Falls, South Dakota! Nestled in Sioux Falls, this charming venue offers an intimate setting that’s perfect for those looking to celebrate their special day on a smaller scale. With affordable rates starting at just $60 per hour (with a 2-hour minimum), it won’t break the bank. Here are some of its key features:

• A 250 square foot furnished front parlor.
• A compact catering kitchen equipped with essentials like a refrigerator, range, microwave, and sink.
• A 1,410 square foot auditorium with a 470 square foot stage, accommodating up to 100 guests for a sit-down event or approximately 200 for seating only.
• Access to folding chairs, rectangular tables, round tables, and a grand piano.
• Convenient amenities like a coat room and restrooms for both men and women.

Address: 758 South Phillips Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD, 57104

Capacity: Suitable for small to medium-sized weddings.

Price Range: Starting at $60 per hour (with a 2-hour minimum).

The History Clubhouse is ready to help you create beautiful memories for your big day without breaking the bank!

15. Hay Camp Brewing Company

Hop on over to Hay Camp Brewing Company in Rapid City, South Dakota. This local craft brewery combines rustic and modern aesthetics, creating a vibrant yet cozy wedding atmosphere.

You’ll be smitten by the tavern walnut tables, cherry wood booths, and local vintage furniture. It can accommodate up to 150 guests with around 3,400 square feet of customizable space.

Price range? Inexpensive. So get ready to say “I do” at 601 Kansas City St, Rapid City, SD, and let the unforgettable memories flow like fine craft beer!

How to Book a Wedding Venue in South Dakota.

Step 1: Determine Your Budget

Before delving into venue options, it’s essential to establish a rough budget estimate. Typically, your venue and catering expenses will make up approximately 40 percent of your total budget.

While this allocation can be adjusted based on your priorities, it serves as a solid starting point as you commence your venue search.

Step 2: Finalize Your Guest List

Having a clear understanding of your guest list size is crucial. Without it, you might end up visiting venues that are too small to accommodate your guests or overlooking unique options suitable for smaller gatherings.

While you won’t have the exact guest count until closer to your wedding date, a general rule of thumb is to estimate that roughly 80 percent of your guests will attend.

This estimate can be a helpful guide when evaluating venue capacities, ensuring you choose a space that can comfortably accommodate your anticipated attendance.

Step 3: Decide on a Ceremony Location

While planning your wedding, it’s essential to consider both your ceremony and reception, as they may initially appear as separate aspects. Understanding where your ceremony will occur before booking your reception venue is a wise move. For instance, if you’ve chosen your hometown church in the suburbs as your ceremony location, this choice will influence your decision on whether to host your reception in the city.

It’s crucial to keep transportation logistics in mind for both you and your guests. If your preference is to have both the ceremony and reception at a single venue, it’s essential to have this in mind from the outset of your search. This approach allows you to thoroughly assess your options and availability accordingly.

Step 4: Consider Your Style

Navigating the multitude of wedding venues in South Dakota can feel quite daunting without a clear vision. To begin your search, it’s crucial to take a moment to reflect on your style and the ambiance you wish to create.

Perusing wedding magazines and online resources can provide valuable insights into the diverse aesthetics at your disposal. Armed with this knowledge, focus your efforts on venues that align with your preferred look, whether it’s rustic barn wedding charm like The Meadow Barn or The Veranda, modern elegance, or a soft romantic atmosphere.

Step 5: Gather Information

Before embarking on venue visits, it’s essential to gather comprehensive information. Start by consulting our Ceremony and Reception Guide, which offers valuable insights into each venue’s location, capacity, and inclusions. Consider creating a spreadsheet to meticulously record details for each venue.

This organized approach allows for easy comparison and helps you narrow down the list of venues worthy of an in-person visit. If you have a specific date or a limited number of dates in mind, proactively inquire about their availability beforehand. There’s no point in touring a venue and potentially falling in love with it if it’s not accessible for your desired wedding date.

Step 6: Visit Your Top Choices

Once you’ve honed in on your shortlist, it’s time to schedule site visits to personally explore these potential venues. During your visit, take a comprehensive tour of all the spaces you intend to use, including essential areas like restrooms. Evaluate the available spaces for you and your wedding party to prepare and unwind in. Don’t forget to capture photos during your tour; with numerous venues in consideration, details can easily become hazy over time.

However, it’s not just about the physical space – pay close attention to the venue coordinator or contact you’ll be working with. Building a rapport and gaining a deeper understanding of this individual is crucial, as they will play a pivotal role in executing your vision and ensuring a seamless planning process. Trust and open communication with this person is of utmost importance throughout your wedding preparations.

Step 7: Ask the Tough Questions

Selecting the perfect venue extends beyond simply being captivated by its aesthetic charm. Before finalizing your decision, it’s crucial to ask the tough questions to eliminate any potential surprises.

• Ask about the duration of venue access and whether there are additional charges for extended hours.
• Assess the level of privacy, especially in venues like hotels or restaurants that may remain open during your wedding. Seek clarification on any music restrictions and explore your meal options.
• Determine whether you’re obliged to adhere to an exclusive vendor list for services such as catering, floral arrangements, and lighting.
• Clarify responsibilities for setup and cleanup, as well as the precise time when you must vacate the premises.
• Explore whether liability insurance is necessary, as some venues provide their own coverage, while others may require couples and/or vendors to secure their own.

Step 8: Put a Hold on Your Desired Date

You don’t have to wait until you’re absolutely certain to secure a date. In fact, many venues offer the option to temporarily hold a date.

This means that if another couple expresses interest in the same date, you’ll be given a brief window to make a decision and confirm with a deposit. If you find yourself torn between two favorites and need a little more time for research, consider placing a hold on both.

Keep in mind that sought-after venues, such as The Meadow Barn, tend to fill up rapidly, so it’s a smart move to act swiftly to ensure you secure your preferred date.

Step 9: Make Sure the Venue Works with Other Aspects of Your Wedding

As you approach the finalization stage, it’s crucial to view the venue within the broader context of your wedding plans, particularly with regard to your budget and timeline.

Now that you have a clear understanding of the venue costs, it’s wise to reconsider how you allocate your budget for other aspects of the wedding. Are you comfortable with these adjustments?

Additionally, ensure that all logistical aspects, such as the transition from the ceremony to the reception, guest transportation, and sufficient time for photos, are well thought out. It’s a prudent step to double-check the elements that hold the highest priority for you before formally committing to the venue contract.

Step 10: Book it!

The final step is to make your deposit payment and lock in your chosen date. It can be a little intimidating to make this decisive move, but you can take comfort in the knowledge that you’ve conducted thorough research, posed important questions, and deliberated extensively on this selection.

Once the venue and date are officially confirmed, you’ll have the opportunity to delve into the enjoyable aspects of wedding planning. However, you shouldn’t rush into the next phase immediately. It’s perfectly fine to grant yourself a moment of relaxation and savor the satisfaction of checking off this significant item from your wedding checklist.

We Wish You The Best Of Luck On Your Journey To Find The Best Small Wedding Venues South Dakota💍 ❤️

The Meadow Barn and The Veranda are the perfect examples of beautiful elopement locations where you can form a true connection with and be the special place that represents your everlasting love! If you’re looking for a venue that is both beautiful and budget-friendly, then look no further. The Meadow Barn and The Veranda offer in-person tours so you can see the venue before you book, and they have an on-site wedding coordinator to help you with all the details. We’d love for you to schedule a tour.

Get More Information About The Meadow Barn and The Veranda.

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Please don’t hesitate to contact us if have any questions or would like to book your wedding.

If you would like to schedule a tour of The Meadow Barn or The Veranda click here.