About Atlanta
Atlanta, the sprawling capital of Georgia, has a long and fascinating history that stretches hundreds of years. Founded in 1837, on the crossroads of two iconic railway lines, this bustling metropolis quickly emerged as a hub for the trade industry. Known as the "city too busy to hate," Atlanta is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in America, including the world-famous Centennial Olympic Park and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.
But what sets Atlanta apart is its connection to Western culture. Home to a rich tradition of horsemanship and ranching, there are plenty of opportunities for visitors to experience genuine cowboy culture here. From cowboy boot-stomping line dancing events to rodeos in nearby towns like Conyers or Covington, there are plenty of opportunities for those wishing to explore the Western lifestyle.
And with its lush forests and rolling hillsides, diverse ranch-style venues host weddings and outdoor camping getaways with friends or family. Whether you want a place to ride horses or host an event in an authentic barn setting, complete with cowhide rugs and antler chandeliers, you will not have to look far in Atlanta!
Ranch Style Event Options in Atlanta
- Barbecue Catering
Barbecue catering is sure to please the crowd at a ranch-style location. From brisket and pulled pork to grilled vegetables and salads, guests will enjoy traditional Southern cooking that pairs perfectly with outdoor activities. Moreover, the aroma of smoked meats adds further atmosphere to any ranch-style event.
- Live Music
Live music can liven up any ranch event, whether a band performing classic country tunes or a DJ spinning modern hits. Have a band or DJ set up and perform at the ranch for toe-tapping entertainment. Bluegrass, folk, and country music fit this environment.
- Lighting & Decorations
Hiring professionals to provide lighting and decorations is another way to take your ranch-style event up a notch. From twinkle lights strung from trees to colorful backdrops set up outdoors, these elements create an unforgettable experience for all guests that honors your theme and venue.
- Hayrides
Hayrides offer another fun way for groups to explore a ranch ground while adding excitement with an old-fashioned spin on transportation. Guests can sit atop bales of hay inside wagons as they take in the sights and sounds of the countryside while being pulled along by horses or tractors.
Ranch Style Event Vendors in Atlanta
- Ed Gaile BBQ
Ed Gaile BBQ is an Atlanta-based small-batch craft BBQ business providing made-to-order BBQ for any event. Founded by expert pitmaster Ed Gaile, the company puts traditional slow-smoked meats and homemade sides into their recipes, creating meals to please even the most discerning taste buds. Ed Gaile BBQ provides quality meals that will make your next gathering memorable, from family dinners to catering events.
- Leah Belle Faser Band
Leah Belle Faser Band is a Pop Country group from Atlanta, Georgia. Led by vocalist Leah, the band delivers an exciting and dynamic performance featuring both original songs and covers of influential Pop Country, Southern Rock, and Retro-Soul artists such as Linda Ronstadt, Patsy Cline, Janis Joplin, and Brandi Carlile. The high-energy live shows have allowed them to open for notable acts such as Jimmie Allen, Maggie Rose, Christopher Cross, and Jake Owen.
- Blue Eyed Yonder
Blue Eyed Yonder is an event design and rental company based in Atlanta, Georgia. Established over five years ago, they specialize in providing boutique rentals and custom installations for all occasions. The owner and stylist, Krista Janos, curates a unique collection of timeless pieces and extraordinary event essentials. Blue Eyed Yonder has consistently served clients throughout the South, delivering everything from furniture rentals to prop sourcing and styling.
Pros and Cons of Ranch-Style Locations in Atlanta
With its rolling hills, lush forests, and plenty of activities to entertain guests, a ranch can create an unforgettable experience for any occasion. However, there are pros and cons associated with these ranch-style venues.
Advantages
- Ranch-style locations have natural beauty and charm, creating the perfect backdrop for any occasion.
- Many ranch-style properties come with various amenities such as swimming pools, hot tubs, horse stables, etc., allowing for extra activities and entertainment options during events.
- Ranch-style properties usually have expansive outdoor areas with plenty of room for activities and indoor spaces for receptions or other functions.
Disadvantages
- Depending on its location, traveling to and from the venue may take time or incur additional costs for attendees.
- Since most ranches are outdoors, they may be too hot or cold depending on the time of year or weather conditions.
- The location near nature reserves or wooded areas may attract unwanted insects or animals during the event, which could disrupt proceedings or cause health concerns among guests.
Tips on How to Organize Ranch-Style Locations in Atlanta
Planning an event at a ranch-style location allows guests to experience the outdoors and create an enjoyable atmosphere. Managing the various elements of the event can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. Here are some tips to help you plan the perfect event at a ranch-style location.
- Be mindful of your surroundings: Take stock of local laws and regulations so as not to disturb any wildlife or disrupt any farm-related activities that may be happening nearby. It is also essential to check with authorities for potential fire safety issues due to dry conditions caused by drought in certain areas during certain times of the year.
- Use outdoor spaces effectively: Outdoor spaces, such as fields or open areas, accommodate seating arrangements and activities, such as picnics or hayrides. Ensure your plan is within catered boundaries since livestock or grazing animals can cause harm or disruption.
- Protect your equipment: Weather-resistant tarps or tents can help protect valuable electronics like sound systems from unexpected rain showers or wind gusts during your event at a ranch-style location in Atlanta. It is essential to bring extra cords, batteries, and other supplies if an electric outage occurs due to extreme weather conditions.
- Plan for plenty of parking: Many people coming from out of town will likely drive themselves, so it is essential to have adequate parking available for all guests. Create a designated area with assigned cars and drivers that provide shuttle service from the nearest town or city center or rent a bus if necessary.
- Set Event Rules & Regulations: Establishing rules can help ensure everyone enjoys their time at your ranch-style event without overstepping boundaries or causing disturbances. Rules include no smoking inside the venue area, no playing loud music, and no open flames or bonfires allowed on the premises.
Famous Locations in Atlanta
- Atlanta Cyclorama & Civil War Museum
The Atlanta History Center's 23,000-square-foot Lloyd and Mary Ann Whitaker Cyclorama Building holds an iconic oil painting depicting the Battle of Atlanta from the Civil War. 28 plaster figures that form a three-dimensional diorama complement the 42-foot-high, 358-foot-long panorama. Viewers can experience the battle through narration and music as the painting slowly rotates. Additionally, visitors can witness the restored Texas steam locomotive used in the 1862 Great Locomotive Chase, a pivotal event for early Atlanta railroading.
- Ponce City Market
Ponce City Market is a renowned historic landmark in Atlanta's Old Fourth Ward neighborhood. This two million-square-foot building, constructed in 1926 by Sears, Roebuck & Company, has been transformed into a bustling mixed-use development including big-name retail stores, small local boutiques, and acclaimed restaurants helmed by award-winning chefs. Atop the building, visitors can participate in classic carnival games at Skyline Park while enjoying breathtaking views of Midtown Atlanta. Popular street fares, like soft pretzels and walking tacos, are also available.
- Fiddlin' John Carson Grave
Fiddlin' John Carson was a pioneering country music artist born in 1868. He settled in Cabbagetown, Atlanta, already an acclaimed local fiddle player and singer on WSB radio when Ralph Peer, a scout for New York's Okeh Records, discovered him. His recording of "The Little Old Log Cabin in the Lane" became a commercial success and catapulted him to fame as one of the earliest country music stars. Though he remained in Atlanta while Nashville quickly became the hub for the genre, the Sylvester Cemetery in East Atlanta preserves his memory. The public is welcome to visit this cemetery to pay their respects.