While the sunshine state is a hotspot for destination weddings, so, too, is one of its neighboring states. A common southern city to say “I do” is Savannah, Georgia.
James E. Oglethorpe founded Savannah in 1733 with a group of English colonists. Named the state’s first capital and now considered the oldest city in Georgia, Savannah was built around squares that served as public meeting spaces. Today, the 22 squares that still exist have become popular sites for romantic, southern-inspired weddings.
One of Savannah’s most sought-after venues is Forsyth Park. Brides are drawn to its north end for a wedding set in front of the fountain, which was built in 1858 and has become a symbol of the city. The path leading up to it is lined with oak trees and Spanish moss, all of which lend a romantic feel to the ceremony.
The City of Savannah has set specific regulations for private events hosted in any park or square. There are also some restrictions about when events can take place in each one. For these reasons, working with a wedding planner who specializes in Savannah weddings could help you land the destination wedding location of your dreams while relieving some pre-wedding stress.
When it comes to rehearsal dinners, private dining options range from casual to upscale at some of Savannah’s best restaurants. Moon River Brewing Company, a notably haunted establishment that has been featured on the Travel Channel’s “Ghost Adventures” and the SyFy Channel’s “Ghost Hunters,” is perfect for a casual affair. Whether it’s an intimate meal in the downstairs beer cellar or a larger gathering in the beer garden, you might see an uninvited extra guest through the night.
Vic’s on the River has a prime location on River Street with views of the Savannah River. There are three private dining rooms that offer a fine dining experience. Choose from a plated dinner, buffet or heavy hors d’oeuvres in the two larger rooms or a plated dinner in the smaller room.
Whether you’re going to a wedding in Savannah or having your wedding in Savannah, you’ll have a romantic time.
Top 3 Wedding Party Activities
1. Bike Pub Crawl: The Slow Ride Pub Crawl from Savannah Slow Ride is an eco-friendly way to experience the city’s bar scene. On this two-hour tour you will pedal from pub to pub and can bring your adult beverage with you along the way. A licensed driver will navigate for you.
2. Historic Tour: Guides with Historic Savannah Carriage Tours will navigate horse-drawn carriages with parties of two to 10 through the streets of Savannah while sharing tidbits about the city’s historic buildings and the people who called them home.
3. Ghost Tour: At Savannah Tours, you can choose between a Creepy Crawl with stops at some of the city’s best pubs for liquid courage or a kid-friendly Creepy Stroll to hear Savannah’s ghost stories. Both are walking tours.