Restaurant Micro-Weddings: What’s Actually Included

Restaurants can be the most elegant, efficient way to host a micro-wedding reception. The challenge is decoding what’s truly included versus what you’ll still need to source. Consider this your straightforward guide: the typical inclusions, what’s negotiable, and the quiet line items that nudge budgets up. Use it to compare offers side-by-side and lock a timeline that feels effortless.

Elegant Restaurant Reception SetupBeautiful floral arrangements and stylish table settings are illuminated by warm pendant lights, set against large windows and mirrored walls.

The core of a restaurant reception package

Most restaurants structure micro-wedding receptions around a food and beverage minimum rather than a flat venue fee. Expect:

• A private room or full buyout for a defined window

• A set menu or limited à la carte choices

• Non-alcoholic beverages and coffee service

• Basic table settings: plates, flatware, glassware, napkins

• Floor staff and a dedicated event lead

• Tax and a service charge (often 18–25%)

Tip: Ask whether the minimum includes tax and service or if those are on top. It changes the math.

What’s usually included in service

Service is the quiet hero of a restaurant reception. Clarify:

• Room flip timing if you’re doing a short vow moment before dinner

• A point person for the entire event window

• Tray-passed vs. stationed canapés during the first hour

• Cake cutting and plating fees (sometimes included, sometimes not)

• Champagne toast: by-the-glass charge or included pour

Rentals you may still need

Even in polished spaces, a few items often fall to you:

• Optional ceremony pieces if you’ll exchange vows on-site: arch, pedestals, or a simple signing table

• Supplemental decor: bud vases, candles, runners

• Specialty glassware or charger plates if you want a specific look

• Sound support: a small PA for welcome, toasts, or first dance if the room doesn’t have it

See our post: Small-Rental Math

Bar structures and the true total

Bar decisions move numbers most. Typical formats:

• Consumption bar: you’re billed for what guests drink

• Package bar: fixed price per person for a set window

• Signature cocktail: a stylish middle ground with cost control

Ask for a sample check that shows your menu, bar format, tax, and service stacked exactly as it would appear on the night.

Timelines that work for micro-wedding receptions

Micro-wedding receptions shine on a 6–8 hour arc. A smooth flow:

• 0:00 guest arrival and welcome drinks

• 0:15–0:30 optional vow moment or private first look + mini portraits

• 1:00 seated dinner begins

• 2:00 toast sequence between courses

• 2:30 cake or dessert service

• 3:00 last pour and goodbyes

The questions to ask before you sign

• What is the exact event window, and what happens if we run 15 minutes over

• Is there a required end time for music or amplified sound

• Are candles permitted, and do you have hurricanes or should we provide them

• Can we bring an outside cake, and what is the plating fee

• Where will gifts and personal items be stored during service

• Who cues welcome, toasts, cake, and any mini first-dance so we’re not managing the night

The elegant extras that photograph beautifully

If the room already has strong bones, add one or two of these and stop:

• Low bud-vase clusters with taper candles

• Linen runners to soften wood tables

• Framed table numbers and a simple seating display

• A petite floral moment you can repurpose by the cake

Explore our Glam Garden or City Chic magazines or a DIY styling kit for easy reception elegance.

Sample budget snapshot for 25–40 guests

Use this as a lens rather than a rule:

• Food and beverage minimum: $3,500–$7,500 (varies by city and day)

• Service and tax: add 25–30% combined

• Rentals and decor: $250–$800 for candles, runners, small florals

• Photography: 4 hours coverage

• Officiant and license (if doing vows on-site): local fees

A restaurant micro-wedding reception works when the inclusions match your priorities and the service team runs the evening so you can be present. Confirm the quiet details, choose one or two design statements, and keep the timeline crisp. That’s how small celebrations feel high style—without overspending.

Ready to plan your own small celebration? Join our list and get the free 2-page Micro-Wedding Starter Checklist →