Skip navigation
Lettuce Entertain You Home page
Wedding table setting in The Grand Salon at Saranello's

How to Throw A Small Wedding in Style

Saranello's tips to make your big day intimate but unforgettable

Today, when over-the-top wedding celebrations seem commonplace, the pressure to go big can be overwhelming. But according to the expert event team at Saranello’s in Wheeling, who’ve hosted hundreds of weddings, bigger doesn’t always mean better, and there’s something special about the personal touch of a small wedding. Opting for an intimate celebration in a cozy restaurant setting can offer many benefits, from cost savings to creating a truly memorable experience for you and your guests. Here are pro tips from the Saranello’s team on how to host a small wedding.

Ready to start planning? Get in touch with the Saranello’s team to schedule your small wedding consultation!

Embrace Intimacy for a Stress-Free ExperienceThe Grand Salon at Saranello's

By keeping your guest list small, you can focus on what truly matters: celebrating your love with those closest to you. Choosing a private dining space within a larger venue like Saranello’s, which has everything that you need in one place—from food to décor to audio-visual requirements—allows you to relax and enjoy every moment. The restaurant’s private party space, which seats 8 to 48, is warm and casual in tone, featuring wooden tables, rough-hewn cedar columns and warm lighting effects. The Grand Salon at Saranello’s, which accommodates groups from as intimate as 20 up to 120, boasts stunning décor and ambiance, chocolate and silver hues, two bars, and elegant draperies on two-story windows, providing a picturesque backdrop for your special day without the need for extensive decorating. 

Personalize Your MenuPassed bites at Saranello's

With experienced staff skilled in catering events, you can trust in seamless service at Saranello’s, leaving you free to focus on enjoying the moment with your loved ones. Wedding menus incorporate Saranello’s favorites along with a wide variety of Chef Michael Brownell’s signature creations, allowing you to treat your guests to a gourmet feast tailored to your tastes. Saranello’s can accommodate various event styles, from small bites and passed appetizers to plated brunches and dinners, as well as family-style tables and self-service stations. After discussing your vision and menu preferences, the team collaborates with you to create a wedding menu as unique and unforgettable as your love story. 

Get Creative with Custom Cocktails & CakeSaranello's Dessert Table

While a full bar offers variety and satisfies most guest preferences for drinks a signature cocktail can add a sweet personal touch to your celebration (and can provide big savings on the overall cost of the day!). Or, delight guests with a build-your-own Mimosa or Espresso Martini bar—the possibilities are endless! Regardless of your choice, the Saranello’s team emphasizes that the key is ensuring your guests have a wonderful time and enjoy delicious drinks throughout the celebration. The same goes for dessert—whether you prefer a traditional tiered wedding cake or a trendy self-serve dessert bar, Saranello’s can help create a sweet centerpiece that reflects your style.

Bring the Fun with Interactive ElementsWedding photo booth toast at Saranello's

Elevate the fun factor with interactive elements such as a photo booth. Photo booths provide an opportunity for guests to capture special moments and have a blast posing with friends and props. And no wedding is complete without dancing! From your first dance as a couple to inviting guests to hit the dance floor, all of Saranello’s event spaces will make sure you and your guests are set up to get down.

Check out more ideas for interactive events available through Lettuce.

Dial In On Details

Wedding favors at Saranello's

Wedding favors are a thoughtful way to thank your guests for sharing in your special day. These small tokens of gratitude can range from personalized keepsakes to edible treats. Whatever you choose, your wedding favors will add a personal touch and serve as a lasting memento of your special day. 

Wedding table setting in The Grand Salon at Saranello'sBy personalizing your food and drink options, incorporating interactive elements, and focusing on the details, you can create a wedding that reflects your unique style and creates lasting memories for you and your guets. Celebrating your wedding at Saranello’s combines elegance, convenience, and delectable dishes, making it a fantastic choice for couples seeking an intimate and memorable day!

Ready to start planning? Get in touch with the Saranello’s team to schedule your own small wedding consultation.

Check out Lettuce’s full range of private event spaces, sure to make your big day shine, no matter the size of your group!

Keep Reading

gift card holiday bonus card