Ultimate Historic Dekalb Courthouse Wedding Guide: Photos, Cost, and Tips

Planning a Dekalb Courthouse wedding? As a wedding photographer in Atlanta who’s captured countless ceremonies at this venue, I’m sharing my complete insider’s guide to getting married at the Historic Dekalb Courthouse. Located in downtown Decatur, just minutes from Atlanta, this architectural treasure offers high marble walls and large arched windows that create and elegant wedding day backdrop.

How to Plan Your Historic Dekalb Courthouse Wedding

Getting married at the Historic Dekalb Courthouse (also known as the DeKalb History Museum) is easier than you might think. Here’s your step-by-step guide to securing this Atlanta wedding venue:

Historic Dekalb Courthouse Wedding Costs & Rental Details

The Historic Dekalb Courthouse offers two wedding packages to suit different celebration styles and budgets. Here’s what you need to know:

Ceremony & Reception Package

Includes 8 hours of exclusive access to the Courtroom, Harrison Room, Lobby, and getting-ready suites. Perfect for up to 150 guests.

Pricing:

• Monday-Wednesday (4pm-12am): $1,900
• Thursday (4pm-12am): $2,100
• Friday (4pm-12am): $3,300
• Saturday (after 2pm): $4,300
• Sunday (flexible timing): $3,300

Your 8 hours includes setup and cleanup time, with dedicated space for cocktail hour while the courtroom is transitioned from ceremony to reception.

Ceremony-Only Package

Access to the historic Courtroom and getting-ready suites, with complimentary tables and chairs (setup not included).

Pricing:

Daytime (Mon-Thurs, 9am-3pm):

• 2 hours (10 guests): $450
• 4 hours (25 guests): $950

Evening (4pm-10pm):

• Mon-Wed, 6 hours (50 guests): $1,450
• Thursday, 6 hours (50 guests): $1,650
• Friday/Sunday, 6 hours (75 guests): $1,900*

*Friday/Sunday ceremonies can only be booked within 90 days of the event date.

Pro Tip: While the ceremony-only package doesn’t allow food or drink on-site, you’re steps away from Decatur Square’s amazing restaurants for your celebration.

How to Book Your Dekalb Courthouse Wedding

1. View their online calendar for available wedding dates
2. Submit the Wedding Booking Contract online
3. Secure your date with a 50% non-refundable deposit
4. Complete final payment 90 days before your wedding
5. Arrange your wedding officiant (not provided by the courthouse)

To schedule a tour or check availability, email donaldson@dekalbhistory.org.

Making Your Historic Dekalb Courthouse Wedding Special

While the courthouse provides an elegant setting for your ceremony, here’s how to elevate your Dekalb Courthouse wedding experience:

Where to Get Ready for Your Dekalb Courthouse Wedding

Skip the courthouse’s preparation rooms and opt for these nearby hotels that photograph beautifully:

• The Starling Hotel
• The Wylie Hotel by Hilton
• Georgian Terrace Hotel
• Hampton Inn & Suites
• Courtyard Marriott

Dekalb Courthouse Wedding Ceremony Ideas

Transform your courthouse ceremony into an unforgettable celebration:

• Book a pianist for your ceremony music
• Plan a mix of indoor and outdoor courthouse wedding photos
• Explore historic Decatur Square for additional photo opportunities
• Add florals everywhere. This really makes the location feel luxurious
• Arrange a memorable exit (alternative options to confetti available)

After Your Dekalb Courthouse Wedding

Extend your celebration with these local options:

• Add a unique party favor (maybe custom pizza boxes?!)
• Book a vintage car for your exit
• Plan a relaxed reception or afterparty nearby

Expert Tips for Your Historic Dekalb Courthouse Wedding Photos

As a photographer who specializes in Dekalb Courthouse weddings, here are my professional tips:

• Schedule your ceremony to maximize the stunning natural light through the courthouse windows
• Use the grand courthouse staircase for dramatic wedding portraits
• Capture the historic architecture in your wedding photos
• Consider adding flowers and greenery to the indoor and outdoor stair area

Planning Your Historic Dekalb Courthouse Wedding

For current information or to tour the Historic Dekalb Courthouse wedding venue, contact donaldson@dekalbhistory.org. Their team provides detailed facility information and can answer all your courthouse wedding questions.

Capture Your Historic Dekalb Courthouse Wedding

As a luxury Atlanta wedding photographer, I’d love to document your special day. My team offers comprehensive wedding photography and videography packages, with most couples investing around $7,000 for photography coverage. We’ll create a custom package perfect for your courthouse wedding.

Ready to discuss your Historic Dekalb Courthouse wedding photography? Let’s chat about creating beautiful memories in this iconic Atlanta venue.

Dekalb Courthouse Wedding photos

Vendors:

Photographer: Stepping Stones Photography

Videographer: Nova Film Co

Venue: Historic Dekalb Courthouse

Planner: Z. Curlett Events

Florist: Blosm Design

Stationary: Hinote Studio

Hair: Glam by Maame

Makeup: Kay Faces

Floor Wrap: Divine Celebrations

Chairs: Up Like 7 Entertainment

Lighting: Up Light Your Event

DJ: DJ Tay Productions

Cake: Lush Cakery

Bride’s dresses: Impression Bridal, Kleinfeld Bridal