The Best Small Wedding Venues in Willmar, MN

The Best Small Wedding Venues in Willmar, MN

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6 Wedding Venues in Willmar, MN

Up to 50 guests
Available on September 13, 2026
Quick responder
The Cottage Farmhouse 

5.0

Glencoe, MN
  • Up to 250 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $3,695

The Cottage Farmhouse is your timeless, white barn and outdoor venue located 55 miles west of Minneapolis, MN. From the moment you step onto the grounds, you will experience the beauty of the countryside with all of the reclaimed charm that makes our indoor/outdoor venue ideal for your one-of-a-kind day. We understand the pressure to have a beautiful wedding that is unique and sets you apart while working within the constraints of a budget. With over 350 weddings served and 60,000 guests, let us put our expertise to work for you. We have intentionally planned our spaces to be beautiful in pictures without needing an abundance of decor. You get all the pretty without the big price tag. Affordable elegance, always within your reach.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Rustic-chic setting
  • Both indoor and outdoor options
  • Dressing room available

Venue considerations

  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
  • Requires outside catering services
  • Not for you if you're looking for a sleek and contemporary space
Awarded Best of Zola
The Cottage Farmhouse was better than I could have imagined! Many beautiful photo spots, great communication and they made us feel so celebrated! We cannot recommend them enough!!
Sierra G., 10 months ago
Quick responder
Reeds & Rushes 

5.0

Howard Lake, MN
  • Up to 214 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $4,500
  • Offer

Reeds & Rushes is a re-imagined, five and a half acre lakeside property in the charming town of Howard Lake. Between the multiple outdoor gathering areas and dock situated on Mallard Pass Lake, and our modern-Scandanavian inspired 7,500 square foot building, you'll have plenty of options when it comes to your all-day wedding or event. Say your "I Do's" outside with a beautiful lakeside back drop or inside in our vaulted ceiling Great Hall. Circulation areas include our Fireside Hall and outdoor patio space with lighted pergolas. Enjoy two getting-ready suites including mini-bars and a golf + sports simulator.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Accommodates more than 200 guests
  • Provides a dedicated team on-site
  • Allows pets

Venue considerations

  • No on-premises lodging options
  • No venue-provided food services
  • Venue feels large for events with small guest lists
Awarded Best of Zola
Reeds & Rushes is an amazing venue! When we first toured the place, it was still under construction, but we trusted Curtis and Maddy's vision. They truly impressed us with the final result. With the wood details and black and white accents, the venue provides the perfect backdrop for your special day. We were thrilled with the addition of the dock and the pergolas in the back patio. Our outdoor ceremony by the lake was beautiful. The Bridal & Groom suites were terrific, I loved that the Groom suite had a golf simulator – it kept the guys entertained while they waited! The Bridal suite was also gorgeous and spacious enough for 8 girls. Curtis and Maddy were excellent to work with, very responsive, and always helpful whenever we had any questions. I would definitely recommend them!
Kalley M., 9 months ago
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Rolling Ridge - Classic Barn & Garden Venue 

5.0

St. Joseph, MN
  • Up to 300 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor

Rolling Ridge provides a dreamlike location to host events, in an environment that embraces rustic charm, modern elegance and the great outdoors. Bring guests out of the white and sterile venues of yesteryear and into the beauty of nature make your wedding or event experience as enchanting and elegant as your imagination allows. Please contact us directly.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides setup and cleanup
  • Bridal suite on site
  • Allows pets

Venue considerations

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Not for you if you're looking for a sleek and contemporary space
  • No venue-provided food services
Rolling Ridge was everything we wanted in a venue! When we first saw the venue we knew it was perfect for our day because there are many wonderful options to have your ceremony, dinner and dance. We knew no matter what that if Option A (having ceremony/dance outside) didn't work out due to weather, then we were perfectly fine with Option B which would be moving everything in doors because everywhere has great ambiance which put us at ease during the planning months. From day one they were so accommodating and truly let your visions come to life. They also were so organized and provided the best planning tools so you felt like you were always on track and they helped you think of all the little details it takes to hosting a wedding. I never felt stressed or overwhelmed when working with Rolling Ridge. All of our guests were blown away by the beauty of this venue and we can't recommend them enough to any future couples.
Shannon and K., 5 years ago
Quick responder
Rolling Forks Vineyards 
Glenwood, MN
  • Up to 300 guests
  • Raw space
  • Outdoor
  • Starts at $1,250

We established roots in Pope County, Minnesota in 2009 with the intent to grow grapes and make wine. As the winery dream became a reality, we were steadfast in our desire to provide a place that not only produces fantastic wines, but a space where our friends, neighbors and guests could share special moments together, while enjoying the picturesque views of Lake Minnewaska. Make our winery the site of your special day. Explore our Minnesota winery wedding venue.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Pets can join the celebration
  • Has onsite accommodations
  • Accommodates more than 200 guests

Venue considerations

  • Limited cleanup and setup services
  • No dedicated areas for getting ready
  • Lighting and sound are not included
New
Shady's Sunset Bay 
AVON, MN
  • Up to 400 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $2,000

Celebrate Your Love at Shady’s Sunset Bay. Established in January 2023, Shady’s Sunset Bay is a hidden gem nestled on County Road 154 in St. Anna, offering stunning views of Pelican Lake—an unforgettable backdrop for your wedding day. Our spacious event venue is perfectly suited for weddings of all sizes, from elegant receptions to intimate ceremonies. With a full-service bar, customizable catering, and a talented culinary team, we’ll bring your dream celebration to life with ease and sophistication. Whether you’re planning a wedding, bridal shower, or rehearsal dinner, our dedicated staff is here to help create an experience as beautiful and unique as your love story. Let Shady’s Sunset Bay be the setting where your forever begins.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has an energetic and exciting atmosphere
  • Versatile for various event styles
  • Accommodates more than 200 guests

Venue considerations

  • Venue feels large for events with small guest lists
  • Does not provide event staff
  • Not wheelchair accessible
South Shore Event Center 
Howard Lake, MN
  • Up to 225 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $1,600

South Shore Event Center, located in Howard Lake, MN, is a distinguished wedding and event space with a rich history. Originally built in 1904 as Howard Lake's City Hall, it has served the community for over a century. This iconic venue is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and proudly welcomes guests to host their memorable events. Conveniently situated in downtown Howard Lake on Highway 12, it is easily accessible, 35 miles from the Mpls Metro and 16 miles from Buffalo. With a spacious area of 5,000 square feet, South Shore Event Center offers breathtaking views of downtown Howard Lake and the South shores of the lake. The beautifully restored venue, completed in 2019, provides an ideal setting for indoor cocktail and dinner receptions with seating for up to 225 guests. The event center also features pre-function and outdoor patio areas, and elevator access ensures convenience for all attendees. The venue provides bar and linen services and is open to all caterers.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides lighting and sound
  • Space for a large guest list
  • Bridal suite on site

Venue considerations

  • No on-site guest accommodations
  • No free parking
  • Not wheelchair accessible

Location flexible? Discover venues near Willmar, MN

About wedding venues in Willmar, MN

Minnesota offers incredible wedding backdrops that span from the Mississippi River Valley to the North Shore. You'll find everything from historic mansions to modern industrial spaces and charming rustic barns; all ready to host your special day in this diverse landscape.

What Makes Minnesota Wedding Venues Unique?

Minnesota venues really shine when it comes to seasonal transformation. Take The Hutton House with its floor-to-ceiling glass that showcases lush summer gardens or pristine winter snowscapes depending on when you visit. PAIKKA in St. Paul features experimental plant walls and flexible spaces you can customize, while Legacy Hill Farm near the Twin Cities gives you climate-controlled areas that accommodate up to 295 guests with full accessibility.

You'll find Minnesota venue costs typically range between $5,800 and $7,000; noticeably lower than the national benchmark of $6,500 to $12,000 which typically eats up about 25% of your total wedding budget.

How Much Should You Budget for Your Minnesota Wedding?

Your wedding costs will vary significantly based on how many people you invite:

  • 50 guests: $18,584
  • 100 guests: $30,703
  • 150 guests: $42,098
  • 200 guests: $52,287
  • 250 guests: $62,477
  • 300 guests: $72,667

What Percentage of Your Budget Goes to Each Service?

ServiceAverage Cost% of Total (150 guests)
Venue$6,39915%
Catering$5,11912%
Florists$4,62211%
Bar Services$4,09510%
Photographers$4,40710%
Videographers$4,26610%
Planners$3,1287%
Bands & DJs$1,2003%
Hair & Makeup$6502%
Cakes & Desserts$8072%

Which Minnesota Venues Are Fully Accessible?

The Lowlands in St. Paul offers wheelchair-accessible facilities featuring custom wood tables and patio spaces that can host up to 250 guests. You'll appreciate Legacy Hill Farm's accessible spaces with climate control while White and Sable in Ham Lake welcomes up to 225 guests with plenty of natural light and modern courtyard areas everyone can enjoy.

Can Minnesota Venues Accommodate Remote Participation?

A'BULAE in St. Paul features state-of-the-art digital technology that creates interactive remote experiences for guests who can't attend in person. Minneapolis Event Center provides comprehensive production teams ready to integrate remote elements into your celebration. Venues like Legacy Hill Farm and Round Barn Farm can handle specialized requests for virtual participation that go well beyond simple livestreaming.

Where Can You Find Outstanding Food in Minnesota Venues?

Young Joni features James Beard Award-winning Chef Ann Kim's cuisine in a setting that blends rustic charm with contemporary elegance. You can enjoy authentic Hmong-American cuisine at Diane's Place while Holman's Table specializes in fresh modern dishes. The Copper Hen serves up farm-to-table options alongside a full cocktail menu that complements your meal perfectly.

How Far in Advance Should You Book a Minnesota Venue?

Most Minnesota couples secure their venues about 15 months before their wedding date with September being the most popular month for inquiries despite June through October marking peak season. You'll want to plan well ahead for popular venues like Bavaria Downs which books its most sought-after dates nearly two years in advance.

What Season Works Best for Your Minnesota Wedding?

Winter venues like The Luminary offer windows that frame snow-covered landscapes and cozy fireplaces for ceremony backdrops. Summer venues such as Round Barn Farm feature gorgeous gardens climate-controlled spaces and coordinators who know exactly how to manage Minnesota's summer weather conditions so your day unfolds perfectly regardless of the forecast.

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