Imagine a wedding celebration that unfolds over an entire weekend, where every moment is infused with relaxation, luxury, and the joy of being surrounded by your loved ones. This is the magic of a weekend wedding at Hadden Estate at DGD Farms, a premier Georgia wedding venue located just minutes from Athens and the University of Georgia.
Set on 24 acres of stunning landscapes, including a picturesque vineyard and seasonal blueberry farm, Hadden Estate offers couples the opportunity to transform their special day into an unforgettable multi-day experience. Let’s explore how your dream wedding weekend could unfold at this exceptional venue.
Your Wedding Weekend Timeline: A Journey of Love and Relaxation
Friday: Welcome to Your Wedding Retreat
As you drive up to Hadden Estate, the stress of wedding planning melts away. The rolling hills, manicured grounds, and elegant buildings set the stage for a weekend of celebration and connection. Check-in begins in the afternoon, allowing your wedding party and close family to settle into The Lodge, your luxurious home away from home for the weekend.
The Lodge at Hadden Estate is a spacious retreat that can accommodate 16+ guests comfortably. With its keyless entry system, arriving guests can easily access their accommodations and begin to unwind.
Start your celebration with a welcome gathering that sets the tone for the days ahead. Options abound:
- Host a casual barbecue on the grounds, taking advantage of the outdoor spaces and beautiful views.
- Organize an elegant rehearsal dinner at The Winery, offering your guests a taste of local vintages.
- As twilight falls, gather around the private outdoor pool or hot tub, creating the first of many cherished memories.
The beauty of a weekend wedding at Hadden Estate is the flexibility it offers. Your welcome event can be as relaxed or as formal as you desire, all while enjoying the exclusivity of having the entire property to yourselves.
Saturday: Your Dream Wedding Day Unfolds
Wake up to the serene beauty of Hadden Estate, knowing that everything you need for your perfect day is right at your fingertips. The relaxed morning sets the stage for a day filled with love and celebration.
Bridal Party Preparation
The bridal party can begin their day in the spacious Guest House. This 2-bath haven includes:
- A dedicated hair and makeup lounge with 4 stations
- LED lighting for perfect styling
- Multiple closets for keeping gowns and accessories pristine
- A full kitchen for snacks and mimosas
Groom’s Party Relaxation
Meanwhile, the groom and his attendants can enjoy the Carriage House:
- Over 1,000 square feet of space
- A wet bar for pre-ceremony toasts
- A full bathroom for getting ready
- A comfortable lounge area for relaxing
- Multiple closets for suits and accessories
The luxury of on-site preparation spaces means no rushing around or stressful commutes on your wedding day. Everything you need is just steps away, allowing you to savor every moment with your closest friends and family.
As the afternoon approaches, it’s time for your dream ceremony to become a reality. Hadden Estate offers multiple ceremony locations:
- The stunning Ceremony Lawn, with seating for up to 200 guests
- The charming Pavilion, perfect for an indoor ceremony or as a weather backup
Following your “I dos,” cocktail hour can unfold in various spaces around the estate. Your guests will love exploring the grounds, taking in breathtaking views of the vineyard and countryside.
The pinnacle of your celebration takes place in the grand 5,800 sq. ft. climate-controlled event barn. Features include:
- Built-in stage for your band or DJ
- Dance-friendly flooring
- Ample space for dining and dancing
- Elegant “Light Natural” wood cross-back chairs for up to 200 guests
From your first dance to your last song, the reception space at Hadden Estate provides the perfect backdrop for a night of celebration and memory-making.
Sunday: A Leisurely Farewell
The beauty of a weekend wedding is the unhurried goodbye. Start your first day as a married couple with a farewell brunch in The Lodge or on one of the estate’s beautiful outdoor spaces. It’s a perfect opportunity to:
- Thank your guests for sharing in your special weekend
- Relive favorite moments from the festivities
- Enjoy a few more precious hours together before departing
With check-out not until 11:00 AM, there’s plenty of time for a relaxed morning. As you bid farewell to Hadden Estate, you’ll take with you not just the memories of a beautiful wedding day, but of an entire weekend filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments.
The Lodge: Your Home for the Weekend
The Lodge at Hadden Estate is more than just accommodation; it’s a retreat designed for comfort and connection. Here’s what you can expect:
Main Level
- Four bedrooms, each with an ensuite bathroom and TV
- Master Suite with a King bed
- Seascape Suite with a King bed
- Hydrangea Suite with a Queen bed plus daybed
- UGA Suite with a Queen bed
- Fully equipped kitchen overlooking the dining area and family room
- Family room with seating for 10, big screen TV, and fireplace
- Sunroom with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the pond and fountain
- Back porch perfect for happy hour gatherings
Terrace Level
- Two queen beds
- Full bath and powder room
- Mini fridge
Garage Suite
- One king bed, two queen beds, and a sleeper sofa
- Full bathroom
- Mini fridge, Keurig machine, cafe table, and TV
Amenities
- Free parking on premises
- Private outdoor pool (available year-round, not heated October-May)
- Private hot tub
- Wifi throughout
- Washer and dryer in unit
- Air conditioning and central heating
- Exterior security cameras for added peace of mind
The spacious floor plan of The Lodge allows your guests to gather together while still having the ability to retreat to private bedroom areas. It’s the perfect setting for pre-wedding activities, post-wedding relaxation, and everything in between.
Beyond the Timeline: What Makes Hadden Estate Special
Hadden Estate isn’t just a venue; it’s a destination that offers an unparalleled wedding experience. By booking the entire property, including The Lodge and The Winery, you create an exclusive retreat for your wedding party and guests.
The estate’s proximity to Athens, Georgia (just 7.1 miles from UGA), makes it a favorite among those with ties to the University of Georgia. However, its appeal extends to all couples seeking a refined yet relaxed wedding weekend in a stunning Georgia setting.
During summer months, guests can enjoy the estate’s blueberry farm, adding a unique touch to your celebration. Year-round, the vineyard provides a stunning backdrop for photos and outdoor gatherings.
While the grounds are meticulously maintained, there’s no shortage of activities. Guests can explore the 24-acre property, enjoy the pool and hot tub, or simply relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
The estate’s amenities cater to your every need:
- Tables for 200 guests in various sizes and styles, including elegant estate farm tables
- 200 white resin padded folding chairs for your ceremony
- A 575 sq. ft. catering prep kitchen, fully equipped for your chosen caterer
- Two six-seat golf carts with drivers for easy transportation around the property
At Hadden Estate, your wedding isn’t just a day – it’s a weekend-long celebration surrounded by natural beauty and thoughtful luxury. It’s where cherished moments unfold, and lifelong memories are created. Whether you’re exchanging vows, dancing under the stars, or sharing a quiet moment amidst the vineyard, Hadden Estate provides the perfect setting for every part of your wedding journey.
Choose Hadden Estate for your wedding, and give yourself and your guests the gift of time – time to celebrate, time to connect, and time to create memories that will last a lifetime. Your relaxed and refined wedding weekend awaits in the heart of Georgia wine country, just a stone’s throw from the classic city of Athens.