Atlanta is a mixing pot of cultures, personalities, and tastes! There are a wide array of venue types to be found here. Today we will break down a few of the many different types and guide you along your journey to picking the best venue for you. Whether you are looking for a grandiose space for hundreds of guests or a place for an intimate micro-wedding there is something for everyone!

Atlanta offers a wide range of venues to choose from, including:

Ballroom Venues

These venues are typically either standalone venues or located within a hotel, resort, or other large venues (like the Biltmore Ballrooms). Ballrooms are known for their spacious layouts and elegant atmosphere. Their size can be great for a seamless transition from ceremony to reception and hosting many guests. Ballroom weddings naturally offer a formal and traditional wedding feel.

Pros: Elegant atmosphere, in-house rental offerings, inclement weather-proof, in-house food and beverage options, great for out-of-town guests!

Cons: Hidden costs, restrictions on decor, not the cleanest slate for decor (think carpets or chandeliers that may clash!).

Estate Venues

An estate is usually a private historic home or mansion surrounded by beautiful landscaping. Estate venues offer a unique and intimate setting for many styles of weddings. Whether it’s a historically charming or a recently renovated venue these often offer a great experience for guests and couples alike. These beautiful buildings create a very intimate and dreamy atmosphere as they are typically surrounded by gardens and landscaping.

Pros- great scenery for photos, privacy, and a unique setting.

Cons- as they were not originally designed for weddings space may be unconventional or limited, and may not be able to comfortably accommodate a ceremony, reception, and cocktail hour in case of inclement weather.

Industrial Venues

These venues are often converted spaces that have a few distinct characteristics, such as exposed wood or brick, visible pipes, or concrete flooring. Gallery and studio venues in Atlanta often have a great historic brick and industrial feel. These venues are a great canvas for weddings ranging everywhere from boho-chic to modern chic.

Pros: Trendy, usually large open spaces that can be customized and decorated uniquely, cost-effective, usually located close to or within the city which offers many guest accommodation choices.

Cons: General pains of an older building (A/C), can feel quite cold if not properly decorated, typically limited if any in-house rental options.

Outdoor Gardens

Atlanta is a unique city in the fact that it is nestled among beautiful natural greenery. Outdoor gardens may include parks, hotel gardens, as well as the Atlanta Botanical Gardens. Surrounded by lush greenery, beautiful blooms, and water features these venues give a romantic and natural atmosphere.

Pros: Naturally beautiful picturesque setting, cost-effective, typically a fairly customizable space, great for intimate gatherings, less decor necessary.

Cons: Weather dependant, need to have a backup plan in place in case of weather and seasonal effects (pollen hits Atlanta hard!).

Rooftop venues

These modern and luxurious venues offer stunning views of the city that can make a beautiful day or night backdrop for your special day. This is the perfect destination for any theme from a chic and airy daytime wedding to a sultry black-tie evening affair. These venues often offer both indoor and outdoor accommodations.

Pros: Stunning views, naturally glamorous, romantic, and sleek,

Cons: Weather dependent, noise restrictions/curfews, city noises

What to consider when choosing the perfect venue?

• Cost
  • What is the cost? What additional fees or charges may occur? Is there a food & beverage minimum? Does the cost align with your budget?
• Capacity
  • How many guests can the venue accommodate? Consider the layout of the space and how it will work with your guest count and vision.
• Availability
  • Is the venue available on your desired date? Any conflicting times or curfews?
• Weather
  • What options are there in case your outdoor venue needs to be moved inside? What is the weather typically like around your wedding date?
• Location
  • What are the lodging options for guests? What are the transportation needs?
• Amenities
  • What does the venue offer? How are their A/V systems? Are in-house rentals available? What services do they offer in relation to parking or shuttling?
• Staff
  • Does the venue have staff? If so what does their role in your day look like?
• Design
  • Does the style suit your vision? What elements can not be changed? What is prohibited (i.e sparklers, smoke machine, etc)?

Touring and booking the venue

Now that you have narrowed down that the venue is a great fit it is time to secure your spot and ask important questions that may affect the logistics of your wedding.

When Touring:
Come prepared and organized to take notes of venue specifications or rules that the venue manager may inform you on! Ask about the availability especially if you are still narrowing down your date. Ask about any packages or additional offerings the venue can provide. Take pictures to help you think out where and how you plan to incorporate certain elements into your wedding.

When booking:
Read the proposal and contract thoroughly, and remedy any questions you may have prior to signing! Pay the deposit to secure your spot. At this point, it is important to continue communicating with the venue and referencing your contract as you figure out logistics such as when vendors can arrive to set up.

Finding the perfect venue is not an overnight task. Take your time to combine your wedding style and design elements, venue offerings, location preference, and budget to find the one that will best fit your wedding day.

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Are you ready to start planning your wedding? As a seasoned team of Atlanta wedding planners, we’re here to help you find the perfect wedding venue near you.  Contact us for your complimentary consultation.