How to Plan Your Wedding at Swan House: Pricing, Details & Insider Tips

How to Plan Your Wedding at Swan House: Pricing, Details & Insider Tips

November 13, 2025

If you’re planning a Wedding at Swan House, prepare to fall in love with a venue that feels straight out of a storybook. Located in the heart of Atlanta, this historic estate. Part of the Atlanta History Center offers elegant gardens, timeless architecture, and sweeping views that will make your wedding day feel both grand and intimate! From the cascading fountains to the stately stairs. Every inch of this property was made for stunning photos and unforgettable celebrations. The Swan House is the definition of classic Southern romance, with a touch of cinematic grandeur. It’s no surprise it’s one of Atlanta’s most sought-after venues, beloved for its refined beauty and rich history!

Why Couples Choose a Wedding at Swan House

What makes this venue so magical is its balance of old-world beauty and versatility. You can exchange vows in front of the mansion’s iconic fountain. Host cocktail hour in the gardens, and dance the night away under the stars. The property includes multiple outdoor ceremony spaces, like the Fountain Side, Column Side, and Boxwood Garden, each offering a different atmosphere depending on your vision. Couples love how the Swan House manages to feel both luxurious and relaxed. It’s ideal for anyone wanting a high-end experience without losing that warm, welcoming Southern feel. And as a bonus, the gardens photograph beautifully in every season, especially during spring and fall when the light and greenery are at their best!

Guest Capacity & Layout

When planning your Wedding at Swan House, it’s important to know that the venue hosts outdoor events only, the mansion itself is a historic museum, so receptions are held in the gardens or paired with other spaces at the Atlanta History Center.

  • Ceremony capacity: up to 300 guests
  • Seated outdoor reception: around 200 guests
  • Event duration: up to 10 hours, including setup and breakdown
  • Availability: Evening events only (typically starting after 4:30 p.m.)

The venue’s outdoor setup means you’ll bring in your own rentals, such as tables, chairs, and lounge furniture, through approved vendors. Restrooms are located in the nearby museum building, and there’s plenty of space for food and bar service stations on the lawn!

Pricing for a Wedding at Swan House

While pricing varies depending on season, day of the week, and the exact spaces you rent, here’s a general idea to help you start budgeting:

  • Peak-season Saturdays (April, May, June, September, October): around $13,500 rental fee with a $5,500 beverage minimum
  • Fridays & Sundays: around $10,000 rental fee with a $2,500 beverage minimum
  • Catering: averages $120–$200 per guest
  • Bar packages: around $65 per person for four hours of full service

When you factor in décor, rentals, catering, and entertainment, most couples spend anywhere between $400–$1,000 per guest depending on size, design choices, and vendor selections.

If you’re looking to make the most of your budget, consider a Friday or Sunday wedding, or plan during the off-peak months outside spring and fall. These dates often come with lower rental fees and more vendor flexibility!

What to Know Before You Book

Because of its historic nature, there are a few guidelines to keep in mind when hosting a Wedding at Swan House:

  • All events are held outdoors: the mansion interior is open for tours only.
  • All furniture, tents, lighting, and décor must be rented through approved vendors.
  • Power, lighting, and sound systems should be arranged with your planner ahead of time.
  • For accessibility, note that some ceremony spots have stairs or uneven ground, plan accordingly for guest comfort!
  • Booking is typically confirmed once your contract and rental deposit are submitted within five business days.

For peace of mind, consider hiring a planner who’s worked with this venue before, they’ll know the logistics, vendor requirements, and best ways to maximize the property’s layout for photos and guest flow!

Insider Tips from a Photographer

From a photographer’s perspective, the Swan House is pure magic. The light hits the mansion beautifully during golden hour, creating cinematic portraits right on the grand staircase or near the fountain. I always suggest sneaking away for a few quiet photos just before sunset. The gardens glow with the warmest, most romantic light. If you’re dreaming of timeless elegance, this venue makes every detail feel special. My couples often say they felt like they stepped into a movie when they saw the house for the first time, and honestly, they’re right!

Thinking About Your Own Wedding at Swan House? Let’s Chat!

Ruzin Cunningham Photo | Georgia Wedding Photographer

If you’re picturing your celebration at this iconic Atlanta landmark. I don’t blame you, it’s one of those venues that truly takes your breath away. From its sweeping gardens to its stately architecture, the Swan House offers the perfect blend of sophistication and Southern beauty. Ready for me to capture your dream wedding here? Head to my contact page so we can chat about the ideas you have! If you want to learn more about me and what I do, click here. Can’t wait to hear from you!

Xoxo,          Ruzin

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *