The Michael C. Carlos Museum at Emory University is a one-of-a-kind setting for a wedding reception. Designed by architect Michael Graves, the museum is home to the largest collection of ancient art in the Southeast, and its marble facade and pyramid-shaped entrance make an unforgettable backdrop for portraits.
We have photographed a wedding reception at the Carlos Museum, and here is what to know about celebrating there, from Ackerman Hall to the best portrait spots nearby.
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About the Michael C. Carlos Museum
The Carlos Museum sits on Emory University’s main campus on South Kilgo Circle. Its collection began in 1876, and the current museum building, designed by Michael Graves, opened in 1993. For private events, the museum lists receptions, rehearsal dinners and other celebrations. If you are hoping to hold your ceremony on site, ask the museum’s events team what is possible for your date.
Receptions in Ackerman Hall
Ackerman Hall is the museum’s top-floor event space, with tall windows, chandeliers and a grand piano. It seats about 130 guests for a seated dinner or about 120 with a dance floor, and it overlooks the Emory Quadrangle.
The room has a clean, simple style, so your linens, florals and centerpieces really shape the look. Greenery, candles and soft colors feel elegant against the warm wood and natural light.
Portraits at the Pyramid Entrance
The museum’s marble facade and pyramid-shaped entrance are the signature photo spot. The clean lines and stone give portraits a polished, architectural look that you will not find anywhere else in Atlanta.
Portraits on the Stone Bridge
Just steps from the museum, a stone bridge surrounded by trees gives you a completely different feel, with soft greenery and shade. We love pairing classic portraits at the museum entrance with relaxed, playful photos on the bridge.
Grand Entrance and First Dance
With the dance floor at one end of Ackerman Hall, your grand entrance and first dance happen right in front of your guests, and the windows and chandeliers frame the moment beautifully.
Planning Tips for a Carlos Museum Wedding
- Parking on campus is free after 5 pm and on weekends, and a parking deck is a short walk from the museum.
- Couples can hold the ceremony at a nearby church, like Immaculate Heart of Mary, then head to the museum for portraits and the reception.
- Plan your portraits before the reception begins so you can use the museum entrance and the bridge while there is still daylight.
- The museum has a list of preferred caterers, so ask the events team about catering early in your planning.
FAQ: Michael C. Carlos Museum Weddings
Can You Get Married at the Carlos Museum?
The museum lists receptions, rehearsal dinners and other celebrations among its private event options. Ask the events team about ceremonies for your date.
What Event Space Does the Carlos Museum Offer for Weddings?
Ackerman Hall, the museum’s top-floor event space, hosts wedding receptions, with tall windows, chandeliers and a grand piano overlooking the Emory Quadrangle. Ask the events team about other spaces for your plans.
How Many Guests Does Ackerman Hall Hold?
About 130 guests for a seated dinner, about 120 with a dance floor, and about 200 for a standing reception.
Where Can We Take Photos at the Carlos Museum?
The pyramid entrance and marble facade, the nearby stone bridge and the greenery around the museum are all beautiful portrait spots.
Is Parking Available?
Yes. Parking on campus is free after 5 pm and on weekends, with a parking deck a short walk from the museum.
Venue Link
Michael C. Carlos Museum facility rentals: carlos.emory.edu
Photographing Your Carlos Museum Wedding
The Carlos Museum brings together art, architecture and a beautiful campus setting. If you are planning a reception here, we would love to hear about it. Contact us to check your date, or browse more Atlanta wedding venues.
