Kim Hymes Photography is a documentary wedding photographer rooted in Atlanta and travels to destinations around the world.

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A view of the back of the Wildflower 301 wedding venue white building

Venues

Wildflower 301 – Southern Charm & Picture-Perfect Grounds

Nestled into the hills of Greensboro is a stunning wedding estate with acres of gardens, an outdoor cathedral, and a centuries-old mansion. It’s a venue that exudes Southern charm and character, with picture-perfect grounds and architecture. Wildflower 301 is the perfect place for a couple looking for a wedding full of whimsy, elegance, and beauty. I’ve put together some information about this exceptional Georgia venue for you to consider in your search!

Details of an outdoor reception table table set up for a Wildflower 301 wedding Details of a table setting with pink and blue florals/linens and gold silverware at an outdoor Wildflower 301 wedding reception Details of an outdoor Wildflower 301 wedding reception table with blue and pink florals and white chairs in a garden Details of a small wedding cake sitting on a cart outdoors

About Wildflower 301 Wedding Venue

The history of Wildflower 301 spans all the way back to 1803. At the turn of the 19th century, the property on which it sits was purchased by the University of Georgia, who intended to use it as the site of their new campus. Ultimately, they decided to move forward with establishing their campus in Athens rather than Greensboro, and the unused lots of land were sold off to a private investor. The investor built a mill that still sits directly behind the mansion today. After the mill became prosperous, the main building of the property was built and later expanded upon, creating the gorgeous Southern Manor at the heart of Wildflower 301. 

Details of a stack of crystal glasses on a cake cart in a garden Details of an outdoor wedding reception table setting with pink linen and gold silverware Details of a pink and blue floral centerpiece setting Details of wedding bands in a ring box surrounded by wedding invitations on a table

The current owner, Shauna Altes, fell in love with the property several years ago, despite its state of disrepair. Having already converted an event space in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, she instantly recognized the potential of the Greensboro estate as a place for spectacular weddings. Shauna put her love of art and history to work, creating the incredible venue space it is now. 

Today, the estate sits on 2 acres of thriving English-style gardens. The grounds also feature a first-look platform, a private 2-story Newlywed Cottage perfect for a relaxing wedding night, and the gorgeous Magnolia Terrace. Additionally, there is a 7,000-square-foot outdoor wedding venue with a spectacular outdoor cathedral that makes for a breathtaking ceremony site. It’s a totally unique space that balances history, Southern charm, and flourishing gardens. 

Details of bird houses sitting in flowers at the Wildflower 301 gardens Details of flowers blooming in a garden Details of tall trees and a blue sky Details of the tower at Wildflower 301 wedding venue

Details of the Grounds

Getting ready for your wedding day has never been more elegant. With two unique getting-ready spaces, you, your partner, and your respective wedding parties can prepare in style. The White Room is a gorgeous, bright suite on the third floor of the Mansion. The space itself has tall twelve-foot ceilings, hanging chandeliers, and window seats that overlook the gardens. Upon arrival, mimosas and a coffee bar are awaiting you. There’s also a full-length makeup counter with outlets and mirrors and a 3-panel mirror and dress stage flanked with displays of pink roses. 

The Whiskey Room is the perfect place for your partner to get ready, with century-old wooden details, a poker table, and a full private bathroom. Plus, you can start your day with an iconic whiskey toast for good luck!

A fountain spills water in a Wildflower 301 garden Details of roses outside a wedding venue porch Details of blue floral wallpaper A firepit surrounded by iron chairs in a garden at the Wildflower 301 wedding venue

Wildflower 301 Ceremony Locations

When it comes to your wedding ceremony, the Ceremony Garden is an exquisite option. Your guests will meander through English gardens to find their seats facing the stunning ceremony stage. The stage is adorned with a huge cathedral-style backdrop, including three white archways that make a dramatic statement amidst the greenery of the gardens. With room to accommodate up to 170 guests, this incredible site features special touches like twinkle lights and candelabras for an extra elegant look. If the weather doesn’t participate, don’t even worry – their Indoor Chapel is a cozy, bright space in the Celebration House that will keep you and your guests safe and dry.

Details of multi color flowers in a garden A wedding ceremony set up at Wildflower 301 gardens Purple flowers in a garden A view down an empty garden trail at Wildflower 301

Cocktail Hour

Host your cocktail hour in the Magnolia Terrace, a courtyard surrounded by centuries-old magnolia trees. String lights hang overhead, and a cement tile floor makes a great alternative dance floor for later in the evening. The Magnolia Terrace also works for ceremonies or as additional space for a reception. 

A Wildflower 301 wedding ceremony with white chairs and colorful florals A view in the garden lawn of a wedding ceremony with a stone path Details of a floral arrangement for a wedding White daisies in a garden

Reception Spaces

Celebrate your brand new marriage in the Celebration House, a spacious indoor reception space complete with a full-size bar, a dance floor, and double doors that lead out to the Magnolia Terrace. A separate building from the main mansion, the Celebration House is the perfect place to dine and dance with your guests. Big windows bring in plenty of natural light, and clean white walls create the perfect blank canvas for transforming into your dream wedding. 

In addition to these incredible spaces, Wildflower 301 is also home to The Bourbon Garden, the ideal space to uphold an old Southern tradition. Tradition says that if you visit your wedding venue exactly one month before your wedding and bury a bottle of bourbon upside down, you’ll avoid rain on your wedding day. Then, after your exchange of vows, dig up the bottle and enjoy it in good health with your guests! The Bourbon Garden is a specially designated space for you and your partner to partake in this time-honored tradition.  A view up a garden path with colorful flowers Details of the front porch of Wildflower 301 wedding venue Details of a wedding reception table set up at night with candles

Photography Opportunities

Wildflower 301 easily became one of the most beautiful wedding venues in the area. Its natural beauty effortlessly reflects in your wedding photos. Inside the mansion, the White Room fills with natural light. Perfect for getting ready pictures that help tell the narrative of your wedding day. Also, gorgeous features like a historic staircase with a backdrop of feminine floral wallpaper live in the mansion. Perfect for full-body dress shots. Outside the mansion, wraparound porches offer scenic views of the grounds with a touch of Southern charm. 

The English gardens, ancient magnolia trees, and delicate architectural features like fences and walkways are stunning photo backdrops, too. At Golden Hour, when the sun begins to set, the property comes alive with a golden glow. Perfect for extra romantic pictures you’ll treasure forever. 

Newlyweds touch foreheads while hiding under a veil outdoors at sunset A bride stands in a Wildflower 301 garden path holding an umbrella A bride plays with her veil while walking through a Wildflower 301 garden path with an umbrella at sunset A Wildflower 301 bride smiles while holding pink and blue florals and an umbrella

Wedding Details

Wildflower 301 makes planning your dream wedding simple. Their in-house catering provides exquisite fine-dining menus served on provided china. You can also add special touches like pre-ceremony refreshments and bartending services to your special wedding day. Included in your wedding is a candlelit chef-served dinner for 6. Allowing you to preview your wedding menu. 

In addition to in-house catering, Wildflower 301 also has a huge inventory of items available to rent, like signage, arches and backdrops, and centerpieces. Save yourself the hassle of bringing in your own personalized decor by renting it directly from the venue.  

Details of a bride's lace veil as she hugs her groom Details of a brides lace veil glowing in a sunset at a Wildflower 301 wedding Newlyweds in black and white touch foreheads under a veil in a garden An umbrella rests on a chair in a Wildflower 301 wedding reception

Wildflower 301

Wildflower 301 is an incredible wedding venue that brings its own charm and character while acting as a perfect canvas for your dream wedding visions. Schedule a tour to see it in person. But don’t act surprised when you fall madly in love with it!

Don’t forget, you’ll want a photographer to capture every unique and treasured moment on your wedding day. I’d love to help you create a stunning wedding album you’ll love showing off. Let’s connect!

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Journalist. Documentarian. Artist


As a documentary wedding photographer, my photography style embodies connection and draws couples with a deep love for family.