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Complete Savannah GA Wedding Guide From a Savannah Wedding Photographer

Savannah ga wedding

If you’re considering getting married in Savannah, Georgia, you’re in for a treat, and take this as your sign to plan the best wedding ever in Savannah. As a Savannah wedding photographer, I can’t wait to share my insight into this complete Savannah GA wedding guide, where you’ll learn everything you need to know about having a wedding in Savannah, as well as read about a few of the incredible wedding venues there are to choose from.

Table of Contents:

Where is Savannah?

Savannah sits in the southeastern part of Georgia, nestled along the coast. It’s a 4-hour drive from Atlanta. And the bonus? It’s only 20 minutes from the adorable Tybee Island, a perfect spot for a post-wedding beach day if you’re up for it!

Why Get Married in Savannah?

Let me ask you this: why wouldn’t you want to get married in Savannah?! Picture-perfect scenery adorned with Spanish moss and majestic live oaks, stunning architecture at every turn, the Southern charm is irresistible. Savannah boasts an array of incredible wedding venues, making it a hotspot for destination weddings. If you are having a destination wedding in Savannah, send your invitations out early so your loved ones can join the celebration. The hospitality is fantastic, with many fabulous hotels and restaurants awaiting your arrival.

How to Get to Savannah:

Touching down in Savannah is a breeze, with the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport just 20 minutes from downtown. Airlines like Southwest, Delta, American Airlines, and Allegiant make getting here easy. Whether you opt for a rental car or Uber or prefer to stroll through the charming streets of downtown Savannah, transportation options abound. And don’t forget the quaint trolleys and shuttles for exploring the city.

Best Time to Get Married in Savannah:

Savannah shows off its beauty year-round, each season offering its unique charm. Spring brings the city beautiful blossoms, filling the air with fragrant blooms and painting the landscape in vibrant hues. It can bring unpredictable weather as temperatures fluctuate between warm and cool. The summer brings intense heat, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea. However, if you want to save a little on your wedding expenses, July and August are considered “off-season” months for vendors, offering potential cost savings. Fall is a picturesque time, with a warm autumnal sunset while maintaining the lush greenery. It’s important to know that you must secure your vendors early, as September and October are very busy. Winter in Savannah may bring a chill to the air, but it also brings tranquility. Just keep in mind if you’re getting married in hurricane season, you’ll want to get wedding insurance for added peace of mind.

Savannah ga wedding venue, hollyoaks on the marsh

Top 10 Best Savannah GA Wedding Venues:

The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa:

  • Host your ceremony and reception here, which has multiple venue options on the property.
  • Enjoy views of historic Savannah and the Talmadge Bridge.
  • Catering is available in-house for added convenience.xs3

HollyOaks on the Marsh:

  • You can customize your wedding vision since this is a blank-slate venue.
  • Ideal for hosting your ceremony and reception under oak trees and Spanish moss.
  • Keep in mind they do not provide in-house catering

Tybee Island Wedding Chapel:

  • Both the ceremony and reception can be here.
  • It is just minutes from the beach, offering a unique venue outside Savannah.
  • Fun fact: The movie “The Last Song” featured this venue.

The Mackey House:

  • The Georgian-style mansion can accommodate ceremonies and receptions.
  • Perfect for couples seeking a true southern-style wedding.
  • They do not provide in-house catering.

Perry Lane Hotel:

  • Indulge in Southern-influenced cuisine with their in-house catering.
  • Choose from indoor or outdoor options for your ceremony and reception.
  • Located in the heart of downtown Savannah, boasting incredible views from their rooftop.

Chateau 1800:

  • Host both your ceremony and reception amidst lush gardens and a serene lake.
  • Enjoy the picturesque setting just outside of Savannah.
  • Please note, they do not provide in-house catering.

Savannah Yacht Club:

  • Treat your guests to on-site catering.
  • Exchange vows and celebrate amidst the gorgeous waterfront property with a live oak tree.

Thompson Savannah:

  • Versatile options for indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions.
  • It overlooks the Savannah River, providing stunning views.
  • Offers in-house catering for a seamless experience.

Harper Fowlkes House:

  • Ideal for outdoor ceremonies with its gorgeous setting.
  • You’ll want to confirm the guest accommodation with the venue for an outdoor reception.
  • They do not offer in-house catering.

Hotel Bardo:

  • Formerly known as the Mansion at Forsyth, this stunning venue provides a showstopping space for your wedding.
  • You can hold both the ceremony and reception here; they provide on-site catering for your convenience.

How to Get Married in Savannah:

Getting married in Savannah is an easy experience, but just like everywhere, navigating the legalities is essential. Getting your Savannah marriage license involves completing the online marriage license application and scheduling an appointment at the probate court, where both partners must be present with all necessary documents. Don’t stress about this step if you’re planning a destination wedding! Simply obtain your marriage license from Chatham County, where Savannah weddings take place, conveniently located at 133 Montgomery Street. 

If you dream of exchanging vows in one of Savannah’s picturesque squares, securing a wedding permit might be required. These permits allow you to utilize beautiful locations, but it’s important to note that you’ll need to hire an off-duty Savannah police officer as part of the process. You can apply for this permit up to a year in advance, ensuring your wedding day seamlessly amidst Savannah’s stunning scenery. For further details and answers to your questions, click here for a more in-depth page on the necessary permits.

Savannah ga wedding

Best Places to Stay in Savannah:

There are many luxurious hotels that you and your guests can stay at in downtown Savannah. Plus, many hotels double as wedding venues, making organizing room blocks for your guests is a breeze. Check out some of these Savannah hotels:

There are also charming Airbnbs nestled in historic homes with accommodations to suit every taste and budget.

Activities to do During Your Savannah Wedding:

During your Savannah wedding festivities, immerse yourself in the charm and allure of this vibrant city. Take a scenic adventure to Tybee Island for a blissful beach day, perfect for unwinding before or after your big day – just don’t forget to lather on the sunscreen! Dive deeper into Savannah’s rich history with an array of captivating tours, whether you prefer strolls through the city’s cobblestone streets, trolley rides showcasing its architectural wonders, or spooky ghost tours. For a laid-back yet memorable experience, organize a delightful picnic in Forsyth Park with your nearest and dearest, relishing in the simple joys of good company and delicious bites. And, of course, no visit to Savannah would be complete without exploring its picturesque riverfront, with restaurants and bars offering fantastic cuisine and libations for your enjoyment. So, if you’re searching for things to do throughout your wedding weekend, there are plenty of options!

Best Wedding Vendors in Savannah:

Choosing the right wedding vendors can make all the difference in your planning process. Be sure to check out some of these vendors below!

Meet Your Savannah GA Wedding Photographer:

lra photo | Savannah ga wedding photographer

As a seasoned wedding photographer with six years of experience in the industry, my passion and expertise will capture every moment of your big day. Having recently moved to this enchanting city after photographing several sessions while visiting, I am thrilled to call Savannah my home. Capturing not only the love between the two of you, but the tiny little moments of the day are some of my favorites, because all these years later, memories might fade, but your photos you’ll cherish forever. I am ready to photograph your memories, from intimate elopements to grand wedding days. I am genuinely excited to explore and photograph all the amazing things Savannah offers!

Savannah GA Wedding Packages and Pricing:

Ready to start planning your dream Savannah GA wedding and think I would be the perfect fit for your wedding photographer? My packages include an engagement session, an heirloom wedding album, and a second shooter. If you want to learn more, fill out my contact form here, and I’ll be in touch! I can’t wait to hear from you and be a part of your Savannah love story!

More Lowcountry Wedding Planning Resources:

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