Best outdoor wedding venues in DeKalb County

Here are 10 ideas from Callaway and other special occasion and frugal family experts A wedding day survival kit Thank you cards Gift from the grocery aisles Gift the rest of the family Re-use without re-gifting Put it on a card

From an intimate garden wedding to an outdoor-indoor blowout bash, DeKalb County is home to some of the best wedding venues in the Atlanta area.

The Solarium at Historic Scottish Rite (321 W. Hill St., Decatur, GA 30030) - This venue was once a recovery ward for children but now is used as a quaint event space with indoor and outdoor ceremony and reception options.

Catering: Outside catering is allowed to be brought into the venue.
Alcohol: Alcohol and bar service is permitted.
Bridal Suite: A bridal suite is available on-site.
Cost: The Solarium fits into the "budget friendly" category of venues. If you live close to the venue, inquire about the discount for local residents.

(932 Scott Boulevard, Decatur, GA 30030) – Have your wedding on the Garden's lawn or go rustic for an informal event at the site's amphitheater. This naturalistic setting also features a pavilion that can be utilized as part of your event.

Catering: A renter can work with the caterer of their choice and there is no preferred vendor list.
Alcohol: Alcohol is allowed with "the necessary, special insurance riders to be added to the renter's insurance policy."
Bridal Suite: Upstairs in the Visitor's Center there are a number of rooms that have great views of the Garden where brides can get dressed or other behind-the-scenes preparations can take place.
Cost: Renting the entire Garden for a large special event (up to 75 guests) like a wedding can range from $1,800-$2,500 depending on many factors which can be discussed during the rental process.

The Mary Gay House is tucked into downtown Decatur and is a historic space for an intimate outdoor and indoor wedding.

Credit: Mary Gay House/Facebook

icon to expand image

Credit: Mary Gay House/Facebook

Mary Gay House (716 W. Trinity Place, Decatur, GA 30030) – One of the few remaining houses in the Atlanta area from pre-Civil War times, the 1820s Mary Gay House offers a historic setting with Southern charm for your nuptials.

Catering: Choose your caterer from a list of preferred companies, or you will incur additional fees.
Alcohol: Your use of caterer may include alcohol service.
Bridal Suite: An indoor bridal suite is available.
Cost: Rate is determined by the date of your event. Contact the venue to secure an estimate.

The Lake House at Avondale (59 Lakeshore Drive, Avondale Estates, GA 30002) – The serene grounds of the lawn surrounding Lake Avondale provide a natural setting for an outdoor wedding just a few minutes from downtown Decatur.

Catering: Renters may use their own vendors and caterers.
Alcohol: Renters may provide their own alcohol at no extra charge.
Bridal Suite: A ladies room with a bridal dressing area is available on-site.
Cost: $1000- $2500

Miller-Ward Alumni House (815 Houston Mill Road, Atlanta, GA 30329) – Nestled in the woods near the campus of Emory University, the Miller-Ward Alumni House offers the opportunity to say "I Do" on the historic home's gazebo.

Catering: All food and non-alcoholic beverage service must be obtained from an approved caterer.
Alcohol: Arrangements for alcoholic beverages must be made through the venue.
Bridal Suite: Private rooms are available for pre-wedding preparations.
Cost: Complete an online form for a cost proposal specific to your wedding.