Proposals

Photography Credit: Picture This! Photography

Photography credit: Grapefruit Photo

Photography Credit: Stillscapes Photography

Photography Credit: Weddings By Kaden

Proposals in the Swan Gardens

For a truly unforgettable proposal, look no further than the enchanting Swan and Olguita’s Gardens.

If you plan to propose between Friday and Sunday, a proposal permit is required. However, proposals are welcome Tuesday through Thursday during museum hours at no additional cost, as long as all participants have purchased admission, and the proposal does not turn into a “photo shoot” or take place near a scheduled photo shoot or event.

If you wish to capture more than just the proposal moment, typically about three minutes, whether using a camera or cell phone, a photo shoot permit is required. While you may not feel extensive photos are necessary, consider what your partner may want. Would they be content with just a few quick pictures, or would they prefer to commemorate the moment with an engagement photo session? Planning ahead ensures the experience is as special as possible.

Since the Atlanta History Center is private

As the Atlanta History Center is private property, a booked and paid photo shoot permit is required for any proposals or special occasion photography, regardless of whether a professional photographer, camera, or phone is used. If you wish to incorporate props, a videographer, a drone, or other equipment, a permit is also required. Please note that all proposals must take place outdoors – proposals inside the Swan House are not permitted.

Availability

We require at least two weeks’ notice for scheduling a proposal, and you can book up to eight weeks in advance. Due to the frequency of weddings here Friday through Sunday, most photography permits are issued Monday through Thursday. Photo shoots are allowed from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

On Monday mornings until about 12:00 PM and Thursdays until about 11:00 AM, there is lawn care around the Swan Garden. The grass on the column side of the Swan House may be watered between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM on Tuesday, or Wednesday. In the fall, leaves are blown every morning until about 10:00 AM. Photography is still permitted at these times as long as you are flexible with your photography location are issued Monday through Thursday. Photo shoots are allowed from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Swan Fountain Side Photography

Proposals and photo shoots do not have access to the cascading fountain side ceremony lawn of the Swan House Gardens. This space is Proposals and photo shoots do not have access to the cascading fountain-side ceremony lawn of the Swan House Gardens, as this space is exclusively reserved for booked wedding ceremonies. However, you can still capture stunning photos on the fountain side, including above the stairs, on the stairs, and below the ceremony lawn, ensuring a beautiful backdrop for your special moment.

Proposal Photo Shoot Permit

Looking to document an intimate moment with your significant other as you ask them to Looking to document an intimate moment with your significant other as you ask them to marry you? This delightful option is just for you!

  • Private Personal Photo Shoot Permit
  • Up to 10 people maximum – including the couple and photographer
  • 1 prop is allowed (examples: furniture, flowers, sign, marquee letters, blanket, etc.)

Pricing

  • Standard — $500 — January, February, July, August, December
  • Peak — $600 — ​March, April, May, June, September, October, November​

Premium Proposal Photo Shoot Permit

For an unforgettable proposal, this option offers a few more ways to make your moment truly special.

  • Private Personal Photo Shoot Permit
  • Up to 20 people maximum — including the couple, photographer, and supporting vendors
  • You can bring in live music (harpist, strings, etc.)
  • Up to 20 props allowed (furniture, flowers, sign, marquee letters, blanket, etc.)
  • You may bring in a floral/decorator vendor

Pricing

  • Standard — $750 — January, February, July, August, December
  • Peak — $850 — March, April, May, June, September, October, November

Props & Photographer

The History Center does not include or supply photographers or props.

Additional Guests and Time

Have more people you want to invite? We allow additional guests for $25 per person and more time for $200 per hour for either our standard or premium proposal option.

Sunset Photography

Any time after 5:00 PM is twice the price.

Champagne

Bubbly always makes the day just that much sweeter! Alcohol and champagne may not be brought onto property, all alcohol must come through us. You can purchase bottles of champagne for $48 including tax. Bring toasting flutes, as we do not have glassware in-house.

For booking please contact: ablaylock@atlantahistorycenter.com or 404.814.4114.

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