There’s a quiet magic to an intimate wedding. With a smaller guest list, every moment feels personal, every detail feels intentional, and every space feels like it was designed just for you. At Donovan Manor, we love helping couples create celebrations that are beautiful in scale yet rich in meaning. Our Manor Minis package captures that essence, a refined weekday celebration for up to 40 guests that blends the grandeur of the Manor with the ease of an intimate gathering. With award-winning catering from Donovan’s Dish, a premium open bar, elegant place settings, our signature candlelight package, and a dedicated host to bring it all together, Manor Minis make intimate celebrations feel absolutely effortless.

Here are our top five ideas for creating a stylish and unforgettable small wedding in Raleigh at Donovan Manor.

1. Exchange Vows in the Gardens
The gardens at Donovan Manor in Raleigh provide a naturally romantic backdrop for small ceremonies. Imagine saying “I do” surrounded by lush greenery, soft lighting, and the quiet elegance of the estate. With a smaller guest list, you can experiment with creative seating layouts, circular ceremonies, or aisle designs that bring everyone closer to the moment.

2. Create a Signature Floral Moment
Smaller weddings give you the chance to focus on statement details. Choose one floral feature that wows, like an arch draped in blooms, a lush mantel arrangement, or cascading centerpieces that transform your reception tables. Our floral partners can help you design something that highlights the Manor’s timeless charm while expressing your personal style.

3. Host an Elevated Dinner Experience
An intimate guest count opens the door to a more curated dining experience. Donovan’s Dish, our exclusive catering team, specializes in menus that feel refined yet approachable, think candlelit courses, wine pairings, and an atmosphere that encourages conversation and connection. Whether you prefer a plated dinner or a family-style gathering, every bite becomes part of the story.

4. Personalize Every Detail
A smaller celebration makes it easier to infuse personality into every touchpoint. Handwritten notes, signature cocktails, or a carefully curated playlist can all make your day feel uniquely yours. Our venue coordinators at Donovan Manor ensure that every detail, big or small, comes together beautifully.

5. Extend the Celebration
With an intimate guest list, you can turn your wedding into a full experience. Consider an intimate rehearsal dinner, welcome cocktail hour in the gardens, or a cozy brunch the next morning. These moments allow you to soak in every detail and spend more time with the people you love most.

At Donovan Manor, a Raleigh wedding venue, we believe weddings of every size deserve to feel timeless, elegant, and full of heart. Whether you’re planning an intimate wedding in Raleigh or a grand celebration, our estate offers the perfect blend of beauty, versatility, and warmth to bring your vision to life.

Venue: Donovan Manor

Catering: Donovan’s Dish

Planner: Chad Biggs Event Planning & Design

Photography: The Chase Collective

Violinist: Magnolia String Quartet

DJ: Dolce Vita DJ

Cake: LBs Cakes

Transportation: Carolina Classic Car Rentals