Hi there, I'm Rachel, the heart and soul behind Rachel Linder Photography. Based in the vibrant city of Atlanta, I'm on a mission to capture love stories that transcend time and place. My passion is to craft timeless, romantic photos that stand as eternal testaments to the beauty of your love. If you would like to learn more about me, click here!
August 21, 2024
6 Best Athens, GA Wedding Venues
Nestled just 70 miles east of Atlanta, Athens is affectionately known as the Classic City – and believe me, it lives up to the name. Athens features a bustling downtown where historic buildings house cute shops, cozy cafes, art galleries, and more.
When classes and football season are in full swing at UGA, the energy is electric! But Athens isn’t just a historic college town. It’s home to some of the most beautiful and charming wedding venues, too!
As a Georgia wedding photographer who’s captured weddings and engagements in Athens, I’ve got the inside scoop on the city’s most swoon-worthy venues. So let’s dive into my list of the 6 best Athens, GA wedding venues that are sure to make your big day unforgettable!
The Georgian Hall
Located in the heart of downtown Athens, The Georgian Hall is a gorgeous testament to the city’s rich history and architectural beauty. The venue’s stunning ballroom, which opened its doors in 1908, has long been a centerpiece of Athens’ social scene. It’s a beautiful mix of old-world charm and modern amenities. It’s the perfect choice for couples who are looking for historical elegance!
With its timeless and versatile space, the grand ballroom can be tailored to suit a variety of wedding styles and sizes. The venue comfortably accommodates 120 seated guests, 150 for a partial seating arrangement with food stations, or up to 180 for a cocktail reception.
Here are a few reasons why the Georgian Hall is one of my favorite Athens wedding venues:
– The building’s character shines through in every photo! We’ll have endless opportunities for unique shots.
– The Georgian Hall partners with the adjacent South Kitchen + Bar, an award-winning restaurant. Your guests will be in for a true culinary experience!
– For couples looking for a grand exit, the venue offers a vintage Chevy sedan for rent. It makes for a great photo op throughout the day, too.
Athens Country Club
Established in 1926, Athens Country Club has been a symbol of tradition for nearly 100 years. The blend of classic style, natural beauty, and top-notch service makes it a standout venue for couples and photographers alike.
The main event space, the Grand Ballroom, can comfortably host up to 350 guests. With its expansive windows and classic decor, the ballroom provides a timeless backdrop for your Athens wedding.
Here’s why I love Athens Country Club as a wedding photographer:
– The staff at Athens Country Club consistently goes above and beyond, ensuring that every detail is perfect!
– The meticulously maintained golf course offers breathtaking opportunities for sunset portraits.
– Whether you’re planning a spring wedding with blooming azaleas or a cozy winter celebration, Athens Country Club shines in every season.
Hadden Estate
Just a short 10-minute drive from Athens, Hadden Estate is situated on 24 picturesque acres. This Athens wedding venue seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern sophistication. It’s a dream come true for couples seeking a versatile and breathtaking location.
Hadden Estate’s thoughtful design caters to every aspect of your wedding day. With space for an outdoor ceremony, an indoor reception area, and multiple options for inclement weather, you can rest easy knowing your celebration is covered–rain or shine. The venue comfortably accommodates up to 200 guests.
Here are the top reasons to choose Hadden Estate for your wedding:
– The surrounding blueberry orchards provide a romantic backdrop for wedding photos!
– The spacious Guest House is a photographer’s dream for capturing the “getting ready” moments. Its lovely patio and interior spaces offer diverse backdrops for pre-wedding shots.
– From ample parking to an on-site golf cart for easy transportation around the property, Hadden Estate has truly considered every aspect of the wedding experience.
225 Milledge
The Hardeman-Sams House at 225 Milledge is a historic estate wedding venue situated in downtown Athens. It offers a perfect blend of Southern charm and timeless elegance, making it a classic Athens, GA wedding venue.
With its lush gardens, a versatile patio reception space, and a lovely interior, 225 Milledge is an indoor-outdoor wedding venue. Its combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and adaptable spaces makes it a dream come true for both couples and photographers. The property can comfortably accommodate up to 200 guests.
As an Athens wedding photographer, here’s what I love about 225 Milledge:
– The venue offers an in-house planning and floral team who know the property like the back of their hands.
– 225 Milledge is a blank canvas, allowing couples to bring their unique vision to life.
– The historic Hardeman-Sams House offers a stunning backdrop for portraits and detail shots.
The Chapel Athens
In the heart of downtown Athens lies a gem of a venue: The Chapel Athens. This newer addition to Athens’ wedding venue scene has quickly become a favorite among couples seeking a unique and elevated space for their special day. Built in 1912, The Chapel Athens originally served as a Catholic church until 2005. In 2022, a local group restored it to create an upscale special events venue.
The Chapel Athens boasts an open floor plan that offers couples flexibility in designing their dream wedding. Complemented by an adjoining covered patio, this versatile space allows you to craft a truly one-of-a-kind experience for your guests.
Here’s why I’m always excited when couples choose The Chapel Athens as their venue:
– The floor-to-ceiling windows in the main event space flood the area with gorgeous, soft light.
– The Chapel Athens’ prime location in downtown Athens opens up tons of possibilities for wedding photo backdrops.
– Thanks to its thoughtful design, The Chapel Athens shines year-round. The large windows bring the outside in during warmer months, while the cozy interior creates a warm, inviting atmosphere for winter weddings.
The Hill
Just outside of Athens you’ll find The Hill, a wedding venue that transports you through time. This enchanting property is home to four period houses, with the oldest dating back to 1801.
The well-preserved homes and their accompanying gardens provide a stunning backdrop for weddings. Plus, the Hill’s unique blend of historical significance and natural beauty truly can’t be found elsewhere.
As a wedding photographer, the Hill holds a special place in my heart. Here’s what I love about it:
– The Hill provides a day-of wedding coordinator as part of their package. This ensures that everything runs smoothly and allows me to focus entirely on photographing the day without worrying about logistics.
– On your wedding day, you’ll have the entire property to yourselves. This gives us the freedom to explore and utilize all the gorgeous backdrop options.
– The historical authenticity at the Hill is truly one-of-a-kind. From the exteriors of the period homes to the antique-filled interiors, every corner tells a story.
There you have it—the 6 best Athens, GA wedding venues! You truly can’t go wrong with any of these options.
As an Athens wedding photographer, I’d be honored to capture your wedding day at any of these Athens, GA wedding venues. Whether you’re drawn to the urban sophistication of The Chapel Athens or the natural beauty of 225 Milledge, I’m here to ensure that every precious moment of your big day is captured. Be sure to get in touch to learn more about my services and availability!
