Written by the WeddingBudgetCalc Editorial Team · Last updated January 07, 2026

Our team combines wedding planning expertise with financial analysis. Data sourced from The Knot, Zola, and vendor surveys across 50 states.

Georgia offers a unique blend of Southern hospitality, historic charm, and modern sophistication that creates unforgettable wedding experiences. From Atlanta's sleek rooftops to Savannah's moss-draped squares to the Blue Ridge Mountain vineyards, the Peach State provides diverse settings for celebrations of all styles—often at better value than comparable venues in other parts of the country.

Georgia wedding costs fall below the national average, making it an attractive destination for couples seeking quality and beauty without premium coastal pricing. Atlanta's cosmopolitan market and Savannah's destination appeal create the state's highest price points, while charming small towns throughout Georgia offer exceptional value with genuine Southern character.

The state's wedding industry thrives on hospitality traditions, with vendors known for going above and beyond for couples and guests alike. Whether you envision a glamorous Atlanta celebration, a romantic Savannah historic district ceremony, or a rustic mountain retreat, Georgia delivers quality experiences that feel distinctly Southern while accommodating modern tastes and diverse budgets.

Note: All costs shown are estimates based on industry data and may vary significantly based on venue, guest count, season, and vendor selections. We recommend obtaining quotes from local vendors for accurate pricing.
$30K
State Average
$40K
Atlanta
$37K
Savannah
$24K
Smaller Cities

Georgia Wedding Costs by Region

Georgia's wedding market offers distinct experiences across different regions, each with unique venue styles, vendor availability, and pricing structures. Atlanta and Savannah command higher prices, while smaller cities and mountain towns provide excellent value.

Atlanta Metro

As the South's major metropolitan hub, Atlanta offers sophisticated venues, world-class vendors, and diverse celebration styles. Buckhead mansions, Midtown rooftops, and historic downtown venues create options from ultra-modern to traditionally Southern. The city's large vendor community creates healthy competition and quality at various price points.

  • Average total cost: $35,000-$45,000
  • Venue and catering: $15,000-$28,000
  • Photography: $3,500-$6,500
  • Popular venues: The Biltmore Ballrooms, Summerour Studio, Callanwolde Fine Arts Center, Georgian Terrace
  • Best for: Urban sophistication, diverse vendor options, modern celebrations

Savannah

Savannah's historic squares, waterfront views, and antebellum architecture create a destination wedding experience within the continental U.S. The city's romantic atmosphere attracts couples from across the country, with venues ranging from intimate courtyard settings to grand historic estates. Spanish moss and cobblestone streets provide unforgettable photo opportunities.

  • Average total cost: $32,000-$42,000
  • Venue and catering: $14,000-$26,000
  • Photography: $3,500-$6,000
  • Popular venues: The Davenport House, Harper Fowlkes House, Forsyth Park, Savannah Station
  • Best for: Historic romance, destination weddings, outdoor ceremonies

North Georgia Mountains

The Blue Ridge Mountains offer stunning natural backdrops for outdoor celebrations, with vineyard estates, mountain lodges, and rustic-elegant barn venues creating destination-style experiences just 1-2 hours from Atlanta. Fall foliage makes October particularly popular, while summer offers lush greenery and cooler temperatures than lowland Georgia.

  • Average total cost: $28,000-$38,000
  • Venue and catering: $12,000-$22,000
  • Photography: $3,000-$5,500
  • Popular areas: Blue Ridge, Dahlonega wineries, Helen, Ellijay
  • Best for: Mountain beauty, vineyard settings, fall weddings, rustic elegance

Coastal Georgia

Beyond Savannah, Georgia's coast offers beach weddings on Jekyll Island, St. Simons Island, and Tybee Island. These barrier island settings provide intimate beach ceremony options and resort-style celebrations at lower prices than Florida beaches. The Golden Isles combine natural beauty with historic charm.

  • Average total cost: $26,000-$35,000
  • Venue and catering: $11,000-$20,000
  • Photography: $3,000-$5,000
  • Popular venues: Jekyll Island Club, The King and Prince Resort, Tybee Island venues
  • Best for: Beach weddings, island charm, relaxed resort celebrations

Middle Georgia and Small Towns

Cities like Macon, Columbus, Augusta, and charming towns like Madison offer exceptional wedding value with genuine Southern character. Historic antebellum mansions, courthouse squares, and plantation-style venues provide stunning settings at prices well below Atlanta and Savannah. Perfect for couples prioritizing budget or seeking authentic small-town Southern charm.

  • Average total cost: $20,000-$28,000
  • Venue and catering: $8,000-$16,000
  • Photography: $2,500-$4,500
  • Popular areas: Madison, Macon, Columbus, Augusta, Athens
  • Best for: Budget weddings, Southern authenticity, intimate celebrations

Wedding Venue Types and Costs in Georgia

Georgia's venue landscape includes elegant urban spaces, historic Southern mansions, rustic barns, and stunning natural settings. Understanding typical costs helps couples identify venues that match their vision and budget.

Venue Type Typical Range What's Included
Atlanta Rooftop/Urban Venue $6,000-$18,000 Venue rental, modern amenities, city views
Historic Mansion/Estate $5,000-$15,000 Venue rental, grounds access, architectural charm
Savannah Historic Venue $4,000-$20,000 Venue rental, often requires specific caterers
Mountain Vineyard/Lodge $4,000-$12,000 Venue rental, scenic backdrops, often lodging
Rustic Barn Venue $3,000-$10,000 Venue rental, outdoor ceremony space, rustic charm
Beach/Island Resort $5,000-$18,000 Venue, beach access, often catering packages

Seasonal Cost Variations in Georgia

Georgia's climate significantly impacts wedding planning, with spring and fall offering ideal conditions and commanding premium pricing. Summer heat creates challenges but opportunity for savings.

Peak: Spring (March-May)

+20-30% Premium

Ideal weather with azalea blooms in Savannah. Mild temperatures perfect for outdoor celebrations. Most popular season with highest demand and premium pricing.

Peak: Fall (September-November)

+15-25% Premium

Beautiful foliage, especially in North Georgia mountains. Comfortable temperatures return. October mountain weddings are particularly popular and book early.

Off-Peak: Summer (June-August)

15-25% Savings

Intense heat (90F+) and humidity limit outdoor options. Evening ceremonies work well. Significant discounts available for flexible couples with indoor backup plans.

Off-Peak: Winter (December-February)

20-35% Savings

Mild Southern winters with occasional cold snaps. Holiday weddings can be magical with seasonal decorations. Best pricing of the year, especially January-February.

Georgia Vendor Pricing Guide

Georgia's vendor market offers strong value compared to major coastal markets, with excellent talent at accessible price points. Atlanta vendors tend toward the higher end, while smaller market vendors offer comparable quality at lower rates.

Vendor Category Budget Mid-Range Premium
Photography $2,000-$3,500 $4,000-$6,000 $6,500-$10,000
Videography $1,500-$2,500 $3,000-$5,000 $5,500-$8,000
DJ $800-$1,500 $1,600-$2,500 $3,000-$4,500
Florist $1,500-$3,000 $3,500-$6,000 $7,000-$12,000
Catering (per person) $60-$90 $95-$140 $150-$250

Budget Tiers: What Different Budgets Buy in Georgia

Budget-Conscious Wedding

$18,000-$28,000

Achievable throughout Georgia with strategic choices. Small towns and off-peak timing work well. Expect 75-100 guests, Southern comfort food catering, and venues outside Atlanta and Savannah. State parks, community venues, and family properties offer ceremony settings. DIY elements feel authentic with Southern charm.

Mid-Range Wedding

$32,000-$45,000

Opens doors to quality Atlanta venues, accessible Savannah options, and North Georgia mountain estates. Allows 100-150 guests, established vendors, and Saturday peak-season dates. Professional coordination becomes valuable, especially for destination-style celebrations in Savannah or the mountains.

Luxury Wedding

$55,000-$100,000+

Access to Atlanta's finest venues like The Biltmore, Savannah's most exclusive historic properties, and full-service wedding experiences. Top-tier vendors, elaborate floral installations, and 150+ guests with guest experience enhancements like welcome parties and farewell brunches.

Money-Saving Tips for Georgia Weddings

Top Money-Saving Strategies
  • Embrace Southern cuisine: BBQ, fried chicken, and comfort food cost less than formal plated dinners while feeling authentically Georgian.
  • Consider small towns: Charming venues in Madison, Macon, and Columbus offer 30-50% savings over Atlanta and Savannah.
  • Weekday Savannah: Avoid the Saturday premium in this destination market with Thursday or Friday celebrations.
  • Mountain cabin buyouts: All-inclusive mountain lodge weddings can be surprisingly affordable while providing guest accommodations.
  • Use local flowers: Georgia has excellent flower farms; magnolias, peonies, and native blooms add charm at lower cost than imported florals.
  • State park venues: Georgia's beautiful state parks offer ceremony sites at minimal permit cost with stunning natural backdrops.
  • Winter dates: January-February offer the best pricing of the year with mild Georgia weather.
  • College town venues: Athens and other college towns offer quality venues at student-friendly prices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Underestimating summer heat: Outdoor ceremonies in June-August require industrial fans, shade structures, and unlimited cold beverages. Budget $500-$1,500 for guest comfort.
  • Savannah parking oversight: Historic district venues require valet or off-site parking coordination. Budget $500-$1,500 for transportation solutions.
  • Historic venue restrictions: Some Savannah and plantation venues limit catering options or require specific vendors. Confirm flexibility before booking.
  • Ignoring humidity: Hair and makeup need humidity-resistant products. Fondant cakes struggle in Georgia heat. Plan for climate realities.
  • Mountain vendor travel: North Georgia mountain venues may require Atlanta vendors to travel, adding $500-$1,000 in fees. Consider local mountain vendors.
  • Last-minute peak season booking: Spring and fall dates at popular venues book 12-18 months ahead. Starting late limits options significantly.
  • Forgetting destination logistics: Savannah and mountain weddings need guest transportation coordination. Budget for shuttles from hotels to venues.
  • Overlooking Atlanta traffic: Allow extra time for vendor arrivals and guest transportation in Atlanta metro area.

Best Cities for Weddings in Georgia

Best for Urban Sophistication: Atlanta

Atlanta offers the South's most cosmopolitan wedding market with world-class vendors, diverse venues from Buckhead mansions to industrial Westside spaces, and excellent guest accessibility via Hartsfield-Jackson airport. The city excels in modern, stylish celebrations while maintaining Southern hospitality.

Best for Historic Romance: Savannah

Savannah delivers destination wedding magic at domestic prices. Spanish moss, historic squares, and antebellum architecture create an atmosphere comparable to European destinations. Perfect for couples seeking romantic, photo-worthy settings with built-in guest activities in the charming historic district.

Best for Mountain Beauty: Dahlonega and Blue Ridge

North Georgia wine country and mountain towns offer stunning natural settings with vineyard estates, mountain lodges, and rustic-elegant barn venues. Fall foliage makes October particularly spectacular. Perfect for couples seeking nature-focused celebrations with destination appeal.

Best for Value: Madison and Small Towns

Small Georgia towns like Madison, Washington, and Thomasville offer exceptional wedding value with historic antebellum mansions, courthouse squares, and genuine Southern charm. Perfect for budget-conscious couples or those seeking intimate, authentic Southern celebrations.

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Georgia weddings combine Southern hospitality with diverse venue options, from Atlanta sophistication to Savannah romance to mountain retreats. The state's strong value proposition and year-round viability make it an excellent choice for couples seeking quality celebrations without premium pricing. Use our Cost by State Calculator to compare Georgia with other destinations.

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