What to Wear to an Atlanta Wedding: The Complete Guide for 2026 Wedding Guests

Atlanta weddings are wildly popular — and for good reason. The city blends Southern charm with modern style, incredible food, and a year‑round social calendar that keeps wedding season buzzing from spring through late fall. Whether couples are hosting a chic rooftop celebration in Midtown or a garden‑style wedding just outside the city, Atlanta weddings have a signature energy: elevated, joyful, and beautifully dressed. In this wedding planning article, we will share our tips on what to wear to an Atlanta wedding.

But with that popularity comes one big challenge for guests — wedding attire confusion. Dress codes vary widely, seasons shift dramatically, and outdoor venues add another layer of “What do I wear?” stress. That’s exactly why this guide exists. If you’re attending an Atlanta wedding — or planning one — this blog will help you understand dress codes, seasonal expectations, and how to communicate attire clearly to your guests.

And if your celebration is at Hightower Falls, you’re in luck. With acres of real gardens, lush greenery, towering trees, countryside charm, historic stone ruins, and an 80‑foot waterfall as your ceremony backdrop, the setting naturally inspires a refined garden‑party aesthetic. Guests always ask what to wear, and now you’ll have the perfect resource to share.

Before diving into our topic, let us introduce you to the magic of Hightower Falls—where Georgia weddings come to life. Imagine saying “I do” surrounded by nature’s beauty, complete with an 80-foot natural rock waterfall, charming bridges, and historic ruins that radiate romance. If you love the charm of national parks, you’ll instantly fall for Hightower Falls!

Couples adore our venue not just for its breathtaking scenery, but because we make planning stress-free with transparent pricing and open communication. No hidden fees, no surprises—just a stunning venue located a short drive from Atlanta, treasured by North Georgia couples.

Curious to see it for yourself? Contact us today to schedule your tour and experience the magic up close.

What to Wear to an Atlanta Wedding
What to Wear to an Atlanta Wedding

10 Reasons to Use Your Wedding Venue’s Vendors & All‑Inclusive Packages

Before we dive into attire, let’s talk about something that makes Atlanta weddings smoother, easier, and far less stressful: using your venue’s preferred vendors and all‑inclusive packages. At Hightower Falls, couples consistently say this is one of the best decisions they made.

Here’s why:

  1. Vendors already know the venue layout, lighting, and logistics.
  2. They understand the flow of the property, including ceremony timing, garden lighting, and waterfall photo opportunities.
  3. You save hours of research, calls, and back‑and‑forth communication.
  4. Preferred vendors are vetted, reliable, and familiar with the venue’s expectations.
  5. All‑inclusive packages reduce decision fatigue, which is real during wedding planning.
  6. You get bundled pricing, which often saves money compared to hiring vendors individually.
  7. Setup and teardown are streamlined, because vendors know exactly where everything goes.
  8. You avoid costly mistakes, like choosing décor that doesn’t work with outdoor terrain or garden pathways.
  9. Communication is easier, because your venue team and vendors already work together.
  10. You reduce stress, which means more time to enjoy your engagement and wedding weekend.

Hightower Falls is known for its all‑inclusive approach — and couples consistently say it’s the reason their wedding day felt effortless.

Wedding party dressed in semi formal attire at a wedding venue near Atlanta

20 Things You Need to Know About Atlanta Wedding Attire

Here are the essentials every guest (and couple) should understand:

  1. Atlanta weddings are dressier than many expect.
  2. Garden venues call for breathable fabrics like chiffon, linen blends, and lightweight suits.
  3. Humidity matters, especially from May through September.
  4. Heels sink in grass, so block heels or wedges are ideal.
  5. Evening weddings lean more formal than daytime ceremonies.
  6. Spring weddings often feature pastel or floral attire.
  7. Summer weddings require sun‑friendly fabrics and lighter colors.
  8. Fall weddings in Atlanta are rich with jewel tones and deeper palettes.
  9. Winter weddings are elegant, with velvets, satins, and darker hues.
  10. Outdoor venues like Hightower Falls can be cooler at night, so bring a wrap or jacket.
  11. Avoid white, ivory, or champagne, unless the couple says otherwise.
  12. Garden weddings call for soft, romantic colors that complement the landscape.
  13. Comfortable shoes are essential for walking garden paths and stone ruins.
  14. Men can skip the tie for daytime garden weddings, unless the dress code says formal.
  15. Women’s midi dresses are the most versatile choice for Atlanta weddings.
  16. Jumpsuits are absolutely acceptable and stylish for garden settings.
  17. Check the venue’s website for terrain, especially if you’re wearing heels.
  18. Bring oil‑control powder or setting spray — Atlanta humidity is real.
  19. Guests should avoid overly casual clothing, like jeans or flip‑flops.
  20. Always check the couple’s Wedding Guest Portal for dress code details.
Semi Formal wedding attire explained, bridesmaids in black gowns holding luxury spring flower bouquets
Roots & Willow Floral

What to Wear to an Atlanta Wedding by Season

Spring (March–May)

  • Florals, pastels, soft blues, sage, blush, lavender
  • Lightweight suits, chiffon dresses, linen blends
  • Garden‑party chic is perfect for Hightower Falls

Summer (June–August)

  • Breathable fabrics: cotton, silk blends, chiffon
  • Bright colors, airy silhouettes
  • Avoid heavy suits — opt for lighter materials

Fall (September–November)

  • Jewel tones: emerald, burgundy, navy, copper
  • Slightly heavier fabrics like crepe or satin
  • Perfect season for cocktail‑length dresses

Winter (December–February)

  • Velvet, satin, metallic accents
  • Darker palettes: black, forest green, plum
  • Chic coats or wraps for outdoor photos
Wedding guest in semi formal attire at an outdoor wedding ceremony with waterfall backdrop

How to Inform Guests About Your Dress Code Using Your Wedding Guest Portal

Your venue’s Wedding Guest Portal RSVP system is the easiest way to communicate attire expectations. Here’s how couples use it:

  • Add a “Dress Code” section directly on the RSVP page
  • Include examples and color palettes
  • Add a link to this blog for clarity
  • Upload photos of the venue’s garden ceremony space
  • Provide weather notes for your season
  • Include shoe recommendations for outdoor terrain
  • Add a “What Not to Wear” list
  • Send automated reminders the week of the wedding

Clear communication = confident guests and better photos.

Engaged couple posing for engagement photos at a waterfall wedding venue near Atlanta
Engagement photos are breathtaking at Hightower Falls waterfall wedding venue near Atlanta

Atlanta Wedding Guest Attire Suggestions

Clothing Ideas

  • Floral midi dresses
  • Linen or lightweight suits
  • Flowy maxi dresses
  • Jumpsuits in soft colors
  • Sport coats with open‑collar shirts
  • Block heels or dressy flats

10 Atlanta‑Inspired Flowers & Color Palettes

  1. Garden roses
  2. Hydrangeas
  3. Peonies
  4. Ranunculus
  5. Dahlias
  6. Magnolia leaves
  7. Eucalyptus
  8. Lavender
  9. Wildflower mixes
  10. White + greenery classic palette

Retailers for Garden‑Party Attire

  • Anthropologie
  • Lulus
  • Reformation
  • Nordstrom
  • Dillard’s
  • Petal & Pup
  • Show Me Your Mumu
  • J.Crew
  • Banana Republic
  • Free People

Menu Ideas for a Garden Wedding

  • Herb‑roasted chicken
  • Seasonal salads
  • Grilled vegetables
  • Southern‑style appetizers
  • Fresh fruit displays

Cocktail Ideas

  • Lavender lemonade spritz
  • Peach Bellinis
  • Garden gin cocktails
  • Sweet tea bourbon
  • Rosé sangria

Party Favor Ideas

  • Mini honey jars
  • Seed packets
  • Local Georgia jam
  • Custom candles
  • Mini champagne bottles

Invitations & Styling

  • Botanical illustrations
  • Watercolor greenery
  • Soft pastel envelopes
  • Wax seals
  • Deckled‑edge paper
10 Ways to Describe Your Garden Wedding Dress Code
10 Ways to Describe Your Garden Wedding Dress Code

10 Ways to Describe Your Garden Wedding Dress Code

  1. “Garden Party Chic”
  2. “Soft, Romantic, and Floral‑Inspired”
  3. “Dressy Casual with Pastel Tones”
  4. “Cocktail Attire with Garden Colors”
  5. “Outdoor Elegant”
  6. “Semi‑Formal with Comfortable Shoes”
  7. “Spring Garden Formal”
  8. “Light, Airy, and Photo‑Friendly”
  9. “Dress to Compliment the Greenery”
  10. “Elegant Attire with Outdoor‑Friendly Footwear”
FAQs About Atlanta Wedding Dress Codes
Nicole Satcher Photography

FAQs About Atlanta Wedding Dress Codes

1. What should guests wear to an Atlanta garden wedding?

Light, breathable fabrics, floral prints, and semi‑formal attire work best for Atlanta garden venues like Hightower Falls.

2. What is garden‑party attire for a wedding?

Garden‑party attire includes midi dresses, lightweight suits, florals, pastels, and outdoor‑friendly shoes.

3. What colors are best for a garden wedding near Atlanta?

Sage, blush, lavender, soft blue, champagne, and floral patterns complement the natural greenery.

4. How do I tell guests about my wedding dress code?

Use your venue’s Wedding Guest Portal to list attire details, examples, and reminders.

5. What do guests wear to an Atlanta wedding venue like Hightower Falls?

Semi‑formal, garden‑inspired outfits that photograph beautifully against greenery, waterfalls, and historic ruins.

Wedding guests wearing garden wedding attire at a waterfall wedding venue near Atlanta
What to Wear to an Atlanta Wedding

Schedule a Wedding Venue Tour

There’s nothing like experiencing a venue in person — especially one as naturally stunning as Hightower Falls. Touring the property allows you to walk the garden paths, explore the historic ruins, stand before the waterfall, and truly imagine your ceremony unfolding in this breathtaking setting. You’ll also get to meet the team, ask questions, and see how the all‑inclusive packages simplify your planning from day one.

Most couples say they knew instantly once they stepped onto the property. The combination of natural beauty, thoughtful amenities, and warm hospitality makes Hightower Falls one of the most beloved Atlanta‑area wedding venues. Scheduling a tour is the best way to feel that magic for yourself and begin planning a celebration that’s effortless, elegant, and unforgettable.

We invite newly engaged couples to schedule a private tour of Hightower Falls to experience its magic firsthand. Envision exchanging vows with the sound of the waterfall behind you or celebrating with loved ones in our beautifully restored barn. We are currently booking for spring, summer, and fall weddings in 2026, 2027, and 2028. A tour will allow you to explore the grounds, appreciate the venue’s unique charm, and start picturing the wedding of your dreams. Let the enchantment of your December engagement lead you to the timeless beauty of Hightower Falls.

At Hightower Falls wedding venue in North Georgia, we have a gorgeous, 80-foot spring-fed waterfall, stunning forest grounds, and a newly renovated indoor reception space! We offer a variety of wedding packages, from flexible, intimate elopements to all-inclusive 200+ guest weddings that are beautiful in every season in the North Georgia mountains (just 1 hour from Atlanta!). View our stunning indoor and outdoor spaces here!

Ready to begin the search for your perfect Georgia venue? Contact Hightower Falls today to schedule a venue tour and envision how your special day could unfold. We can’t wait to hear from you, 770-748-8588, info@hightowerfalls.com, 771 HIGHTOWER FALLS ROAD, CEDARTOWN, GA, 30125. We are only an hour away from Atlanta Georgia, an hour from Marietta Georgia and the drive out is stunning! For more wedding inspiration, follow us on FacebookInstagram TikTok.

Garden wedding venue near Atlanta
Garden wedding venue near Atlanta

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Hightower Falls is one of the best North Georgia wedding and events venues. At Hightower Falls, our outdoor wedding venue allows you to enjoy the gentle cascade of an 80 foot, spring-fed waterfall and the historic ruins of a gristmill in the foothills of Appalachia, just one hour west of Atlanta. 

This secluded wedding and events venue is not open to the public, and is only available for scheduled weddings, events, and photo shoots. 

771 HIGHTOWER FALLS ROAD, CEDARTOWN, GA, 30125, UNITED STATES

770-748-8588
info@hightowerfalls.com

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