Wedding

Planning a Destination Wedding in Atlanta

A destination wedding is a unique celebration where couples travel to a distant location to exchange their vows. Unlike traditional weddings, destination weddings offer an adventurous and memorable experience, blending the wedding ceremony with a vacation for both the couple and their guests. The allure of a destination wedding lies in its ability to provide a picturesque backdrop, a relaxed atmosphere, and an opportunity to create lasting memories in an extraordinary setting.

Popular destinations for weddings include tropical beaches, historic European cities, and charming countryside locales. Couples often choose these locations for their scenic beauty, cultural richness, and the promise of an unforgettable celebration. Among these, Atlanta stands out with its vibrant culture, stunning venues, and southern hospitality, making it an ideal choice for a destination wedding.

Top 10 Wedding Venues in Atlanta

What to Look for in a Wedding Venue

When selecting a wedding venue, consider the following factors:

Scenery: Beautiful natural or architectural backdrops.
Capacity: Suitable for the number of guests.
Amenities: Availability of facilities such as dressing rooms, catering options, and parking.
Accessibility: Ease of access for guests, especially those traveling from afar.

1. Swan House at Atlanta History Center

Description: A stunning historic mansion with elegant gardens, perfect for a classic and timeless wedding.
Address: 130 West Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305
Contact: (404) 814-4000

2. The Biltmore Ballrooms

Description: Known for its opulent architecture and grandeur, this venue offers a luxurious setting for a sophisticated wedding.
Address: 817 West Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30308
Contact: (404) 962-8700

3. Piedmont Garden Tent

Description: Nestled in Piedmont Park, this venue offers a beautiful outdoor setting with a spacious tent for receptions.
Address: 1320 Monroe Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30306
Contact: (404) 249-0001

4. The Fox Theatre

Description: This iconic theater provides a unique and historic backdrop for a dramatic and memorable wedding.
Address: 660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
Contact: (404) 881-2100

5. Callanwolde Fine Arts Center

Description: A Gothic-Tudor mansion surrounded by lush gardens, ideal for an elegant and artistic wedding.
Address: 980 Briarcliff Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30306
Contact: (404) 872-5338

6. Summerour Studio

Description: A renovated warehouse with a rustic yet chic ambiance, perfect for a trendy and modern wedding.
Address: 409 Bishop St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
Contact: (404) 962-8708

7. Ventanas

Description: Offering panoramic views of Atlanta’s skyline, this rooftop venue is ideal for a contemporary and stylish wedding.
Address: 275 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
Contact: (404) 766-3867

8. The Trolley Barn

Description: A charming historic venue with exposed brick and wooden beams, perfect for a rustic and intimate wedding.
Address: 963 Edgewood Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
Contact: (404) 522-4444

9. The Stave Room

Description: An industrial-chic venue with elegant décor, suitable for a large and lavish wedding celebration.
Address: 199 Armour Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30324
Contact: (404) 591-3878

10. The Estate

Description: A historic mansion offering an exclusive and intimate setting with beautifully landscaped grounds.
Address: 3109 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305
Contact: (404) 841-6682

Top 10 Caterers in Atlanta

What to Look for in a Caterer

When selecting a caterer, consider the following:

Menu Options: Variety and customization of menu offerings.
Quality: Taste and presentation of food.
Service: Professionalism and reliability of the catering staff.
Experience: Experience in handling weddings and events.

1. Bold Catering & Design

Types of Food: Contemporary Southern cuisine.
Quality: Known for creative presentations and high-quality ingredients.
Address: 1699 Galleria Club Dr, Atlanta, GA 30339
Contact: (678) 302-3252

2. Endive Catering

Types of Food: Elegant and innovative dishes with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Quality: Customizable menus to suit any wedding theme.
Address: 1468 Mecaslin St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309
Contact: (404) 504-9040

3. LowCountry Catering

Types of Food: Southern and coastal-inspired cuisine.
Quality: Excellent service and flavorful dishes.
Address: 200 Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
Contact: (404) 443-5944

4. Proof of the Pudding

Types of Food: Diverse menu options with a focus on creativity and quality.
Quality: Renowned for their attention to detail and service.
Address: 1175 Chattahoochee Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
Contact: (404) 892-2359

5. Sun in My Belly

Types of Food: Fresh, seasonal dishes with a gourmet touch.
Quality: Known for beautifully plated meals and friendly service.
Address: 2161 College Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30317
Contact: (404) 370-0856

6. Talk of the Town Catering & Special Events

Types of Food: Gourmet catering with a variety of cuisines.
Quality: Award-winning caterer with a reputation for excellence.
Address: 30 Church St, Alpharetta, GA 30009
Contact: (770) 594-1567

7. Zest Atlanta Catering

Types of Food: Modern American cuisine with global influences.
Quality: Creative dishes with impeccable service.
Address: 1138 Crescent Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
Contact: (678) 894-0556

8. Bold American Events

Types of Food: Innovative and stylish cuisine.
Quality: Exceptional presentations and flavors.
Address: 887 W Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
Contact: (404) 815-1178

9. Avalon Catering

Types of Food: Sustainable and locally-sourced ingredients.
Quality: High standards of culinary excellence and service.
Address: 1220 Caroline St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
Contact: (404) 728-0770

10. Affairs to Remember Caterers

Types of Food: Diverse and customizable menus.
Quality: Renowned for their attention to detail and customer satisfaction.
Address: 2316 Defoor Hills Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
Contact: (404) 872-7859

Top 10 Wedding Photographers in Atlanta

What to Look for in a Wedding Photographer

When choosing a wedding photographer, consider:

Style: Look for a photographer whose style matches your vision (e.g., candid, traditional, artistic).
Portfolio: Review their past work to ensure consistency and quality.
Experience: Experienced photographers can handle a variety of settings and lighting conditions.
Personality: Choose someone you feel comfortable with, as they’ll be a big part of your day.

1. Scobey Photography

Quality: Elegant and timeless photography.
Address: 1417 Dutch Valley Pl NE, Atlanta, GA 30324
Contact: (678) 631-6181

2. Once Like a Spark

Quality: Creative and candid photography.
Address: 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
Contact: (678) 653-1421

3. The Decisive Moment

Quality: Documentary-style photography with a focus on storytelling.
Address: 3191 Paces Ferry Pl NW, Atlanta, GA 30305
Contact: (404) 815-8993

4. Harwell Photography

Quality: Classic and artistic images.
Address: 2993 Hardman Ct NE, Atlanta, GA 30305
Contact: (404) 842-9333

5. Vue Photography

Quality: Vibrant and modern photography.
Address: 4480 Commerce Dr, Buford, GA 30518
Contact: (678) 296-4320

6. 2TPHOTO

Quality: Unique and personalized photography.
Address: 1025 Veterans Memorial Hwy SW, Mableton, GA 30126
Contact: (770) 485-7456

7. Luna Lee Photography

Quality: Soft, romantic, and natural images.
Address: 6000 Medlock Bridge Pkwy, Johns Creek, GA 30022
Contact: (678) 820-8370

8. Six Hearts Photography

Quality: Artistic and unconventional photography.
Address: 225 Ottley Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30324
Contact: (404) 882-7221

9. Jaimie Dee Photography

Quality: Bright and joyful images.
Address: 805 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
Contact: (404) 257-9054

10. The Reason

Quality: Emotional and candid photography.
Address: 1230 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
Contact: (404) 872-0150

Top 10 Florists in Atlanta

What to Look for in a Florist

When selecting a florist, consider:

Design Style: Ensure their style matches your vision for the wedding.
Experience: Look for florists with experience in wedding arrangements.
Reputation: Check reviews and ask for recommendations.
Creativity: A good florist should be able to bring your ideas to life while offering their own creative input.

1. Faith Flowers

Quality: Elegant and sophisticated floral designs.
Address: 1183 Virginia Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306
Contact: (404) 922-8290

2. A Legendary Event

Quality: Luxurious and elaborate floral arrangements.
Address: 1460 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
Contact: (404) 869-8858

3. Stylish Stems

Quality: Chic and modern floral designs.
Address: 1205 Johnson Ferry Rd, Marietta, GA 30068
Contact: (770) 579-7933

4. Peachtree Flowers

Quality: Vibrant and colorful arrangements.
Address: 2088 Briarcliff Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30329
Contact: (404) 321-4763

5. Bloomin’ Bouquets

Quality: Unique and artistic floral creations.
Address: 1720 Cumberland Point Dr SE, Marietta, GA 30067
Contact: (770) 713-5484

6. Tulip

Quality: Contemporary and elegant designs.
Address: 319 W Ponce de Leon Ave, Decatur, GA 30030
Contact: (404) 378-2913

7. EventScapes

Quality: Grand and lavish floral displays.
Address: 1999 Cleveland Ave, Atlanta, GA 30344
Contact: (404) 733-6761

8. Gertie Mae’s Floral Studio

Quality: Fresh and romantic arrangements.
Address: 1820 Peachtree Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30309
Contact: (404) 550-1180

9. Flower Bar

Quality: Customizable and personal floral designs.
Address: 660 Irwin St NE, Atlanta, GA 30312
Contact: (404) 881-0363

10. Holly Bryan Floral Design

Quality: Classic and timeless flower arrangements.
Address: 3510 Shallowford Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30341
Contact: (404) 869-8858

Top 10 Wedding Planners in Atlanta

What to Look for in a Wedding Planner

When selecting a wedding planner, consider:

Experience: Look for planners with experience in coordinating weddings.
Reputation: Check reviews and ask for recommendations.
Services: Ensure they offer the services you need, from full planning to day-of coordination.
Personality: Choose someone you feel comfortable with and who understands your vision.

1. Chancey Charm Weddings

Quality: Elegant and meticulously planned weddings.
Address: 887 W Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
Contact: (678) 310-8880

2. Magnolia Celebrates

Quality: Personalized and detailed planning.
Address: 1447 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
Contact: (404) 467-6066

3. Kristin Alexandra Events

Quality: Creative and seamless wedding planning.
Address: 225 Ottley Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30324
Contact: (404) 664-0010

4. Pineapple Productions

Quality: Unique and stylish weddings.
Address: 3455 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326
Contact: (404) 610-9007

5. Emily Jordan Events

Quality: Sophisticated and stress-free planning.
Address: 2900 Peachtree Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305
Contact: (404) 233-4000

6. It Takes Two Events

Quality: Romantic and bespoke weddings.
Address: 887 W Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
Contact: (678) 827-2797

7. Hannah E. Events

Quality: Elegant and personalized weddings.
Address: 5555 Glenridge Connector NE, Atlanta, GA 30342
Contact: (404) 654-1993

8. Evermore Weddings and Events

Quality: Detailed and creative planning services.
Address: 1005 Howell Mill Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
Contact: (404) 846-7311

9. A Big To Do Event

Quality: Comprehensive and tailored planning.
Address: 2062 Peachtree Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30309
Contact: (678) 902-0301

10. Ashley Baber Weddings

Quality: Elegant and thoughtfully designed weddings.
Address: 741 Monroe Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
Contact: (678) 591-3599

Where to Host the Welcome Reception

What to Consider in Selecting a Wedding Reception Venue

Location: Proximity to the wedding venue and accommodations.
Capacity: Ability to accommodate the number of guests.
Ambiance: The atmosphere and style of the venue.
Amenities: Availability of catering, parking, and entertainment options.

1. The Roof at Ponce City Market

Description: Offers stunning views of the city skyline, perfect for an upscale welcome reception.
Address: 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
Contact: (404) 900-7900

2. SkyLounge

Description: A rooftop bar with panoramic views, ideal for a chic and modern reception.
Address: 110 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
Contact: (404) 521-2250

3. Park Tavern

Description: Overlooks Piedmont Park, offering a scenic and relaxed atmosphere.
Address: 500 10th St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
Contact: (404) 249-0001

Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties

Ideas for Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties in Atlanta

For Adventurous Groups

Skydiving: Try indoor skydiving at iFLY Atlanta or outdoor skydiving for an adrenaline rush.
White Water Rafting: Experience the thrills of rafting on the Chattahoochee River.

For Relaxing Groups

Spa Day: Enjoy a relaxing day at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Atlanta.
Wine Tour: Visit local wineries and vineyards for tastings and tours.

Where to Obtain a Marriage License – Rules

Obtaining a Marriage License in Atlanta

To get married in Atlanta, you’ll need to obtain a marriage license from the Fulton County Probate Court.

Requirements

Both parties must be at least 18 years old.
Valid photo identification (driver’s license, passport, etc.).
Social Security numbers.
If previously married, proof of divorce or annulment.

Process

Where to Apply: Fulton County Probate Court, 136 Pryor St SW, Atlanta, GA 30303
Contact: (404) 612-4640
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Waiting Period: No waiting period; you can marry immediately after obtaining the license.
Cost: $56 without premarital counseling, $16 with premarital counseling certificate.

Transportation Options

Airport Transfers: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport offers various transfer options, including shuttles, taxis, and rideshares.
Local Travel: MARTA provides convenient public transportation around the city.

Accommodations

Hotels: Consider The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta, Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta, and The Whitley for luxury accommodations.
Rental Properties: Airbnb and Vrbo offer a variety of rental options for larger groups or a more intimate stay.

Group Activities

City Tours: Take a guided tour of Atlanta’s top attractions.
Outdoor Activities: Plan a hike at Stone Mountain or a visit to the Atlanta Botanical Garden.

Managing Logistics

Communication: Use wedding websites or apps to keep guests informed.
Vendor Coordination: Hire a local wedding planner to assist with logistics and vendor communication.

Conclusion

Planning a destination wedding in Atlanta offers the perfect blend of Southern charm, cultural richness, and vibrant city life. With its diverse range of venues, top-notch caterers, talented photographers, and creative florists, Atlanta provides everything you need to create a memorable and unique wedding experience. Detailed planning is crucial to ensure a smooth and successful celebration. Personalize your wedding to reflect your love story, and enjoy every moment of this special journey. Happy planning!