You’re recently engaged and you’re searching for the perfect romantic wedding venue in Charleston, SC. Charleston is well known for gorgeous churches, historic estates, beaches and museums. I know it’s hard to choose which one will suit you and whether you’re planning on an intimate affair or a grandiose celebration, here’s my top 10 Wedding Venues in Charleston, SC.
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Why Choose Charleston for Your Destination Wedding:
You’re looking to have your destination wedding in Charleston, SC and it makes for a perfect location in just about any time of year. There’s so much to do and see in this historic city. From strolling the cobblestone streets, Spanish moss draped trees and waterfront views all provide you with entrancing backdrops for your wedding or engagement session. Charleston in all its southern charm and hospitality will welcome you and your guests that you’ll remember for all time.
Lowndes Grove:
Surrounded by 14 acres of stunning oak groves and peaceful river views, this is downtown Charleston’s last great waterfront estate, enchanting its visitors for over four centuries. Lowndes Grove sits on the banks of the Ashley River and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The main house showcases 1786 era architecture, grand lawn, beautiful pathways making a fabulous backdrop to any celebration. Host your ceremony on the grand lawn where the Ashley River flows and the meticulously manicured lawn making this an elegance backdrop for you to exchange your vows at this wedding venue in Charleston.
Host your cocktail hour on the front lawn then move your reception under the tent. Lowndes Grove understands that a wedding is a complex and multifaceted event, so they require you to have a wedding planner or coordinator. This requirement ensures that your special day runs seamlessly, allowing you to bask in the joy and excitement of the occasion. This is in addition to your venue coordinator who’ll make sure that your food and beverage are made to perfection.
Lowndes Grove offers an array of layouts and designs for your wedding, it makes it one of the best wedding venues in Charleston.
Checkout this Lowndes Grove Vibrant Jungle Inspired Wedding here
Location: 266 Saint Margaret St, Charleston, South Carolina 29403
William Aiken House:
As you walk through the gates of the William Aiken House, you’re immediately transported into a peaceful retreat aways from the hustle and bustle of the downtown activity. What makes this one of the best wedding venues in Charleston, SC is its downtown location. Don’t let that fool you though as this property offers a peaceful and private venue for your wedding. It offers formal dining rooms and parlors on the inside and where a two-century magnolia tree is the center piece for the surrounding courtyard and pergola.
See this Nod to the French Quarter Wedding here
Location: 456 King St, Charleston, South Carolina 29403
Middleton Place:
Step into the enchanting gardens of Middleton Place where the breathtaking landscape sets the scene for your wedding ceremony and reception. It offers sweeping views of the Ashley River, moss draped oaks, perfectly manicured gardens for you to choose to host your destination wedding in Charleston. Take portraits in one of the many sculpture terraces or walk along the pathways of the garden bursting with color.
Middleton Place is one of my favorite Charleston Wedding venues for it offers both indoor and outdoor locations for you to host your wedding. Making an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.
Check out this enchanting engagement session at Middleton Place here
Location: 4300 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414
Top Wedding Venues in Charleston
The Gadsden House:
Located in the heart of Downtown Charleston, full of southern charm and rich history, The Gadsden House is one of the best wedding venues for wedding ceremonies and receptions, rehearsal dinners, welcome parties and farewell brunches.
The Gadsden House offers a seamless blend of historic character, contemporary elegance and modern amenities. Four grand parlor rooms boast original heart pine floors, impressive floor-to-ceiling windows, beautiful fireplaces, crystal chandeliers and neutral walls, as well as a sound system and adaptive climate control. The courtyard is the perfect place to host your ceremony and reception.
Magnolias, crepe myrtles and palm trees create an intimate urban oasis. Custom tenting options ensure versatile use of the outdoor spaces, rain or shine. A beautifully furnished bridal suite and handsomely appointed groom’s quarters allow for all day relaxation for the entire wedding party.
See this Rainbow Row Inspired Wedding here
Location: 329 East Bay Street, Charleston, SC
Hotel Bennett:
Located in the heart of downton, Hotel Bennett opened its doors in 2019 and excluded luxury and elegance. Offering outdoor and indoor spaces to choose from. The Piazza for a beautiful outdoor ceremony and then move into the Observatory or the Crown Ballroom for your reception. With views of Marion Square where Charleston’s charm and elegance will shine though.
Hotel Bennett also is a fabulous place to host your Bridal Shower, Afternoon Tea or pamper yourself at the spa for a relaxing entrance into your wedding weekend.
Location: 404 King St, Charleston, South Carolina 29403
Cannon Green:
Walking through the big green door off Cannon Street, you’re transported into the world of Cannon Green. It is one of Charleston’s most unique properties, it singlehandedly evokes the city’s romance, history, preservation, beauty, charm, and style. From the indoor Garden Room (a refined and airy private event space that incorporates a 19th-century Charleston single house façade), to the lush Courtyard, to the historic Trolley Room, every corner of Cannon Green offers an extraordinary setting for wedding weekend festivities, corporate events, or social gatherings. Located in the Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood, Cannon Green embodies all the elements that have made Charleston an enticing destination for centuries—an air of elegant sophistication, an attitude of warm hospitality, and an atmosphere of welcome.
Location: 103 Spring St, Charleston, South Carolina 29403
The River House at Lowndes Grove:
The intimate River House at Lowndes Grove is nestled between centuries-old oak trees and the Ashley River waterfront in downtown Charleston – but it feels miles away from everything. Perfect for occasions of fewer than 100 guests, the River House offers casual, intimate space and a scenic backdrop with sweeping views of the Ashley River. The private venue is located on the lush grounds of historic Lowndes Grove, the last great waterfront estate of its kind on the Charleston peninsula.
Location: 266 Saint Margaret St, Charleston, South Carolina 29403
Legare Waring House:
Steeped in history, this stately, circa 1840s house is adorned with quintessentially Charleston colors and furnishings, the grandeur of the Legare Waring House – with its avenue of majestic, moss-draped oak trees – is timeless. Have your wedding reception under the shady avenue of Oak Trees, the lagoons and the year round blooming of flowers that the Legre House is known for. Located in the heart of Charleston, just over in West Ashley, it’s known for it being this first permanent settlement where Waring transformed the natural untouched landscape into the lush gardens we see to this day.
Having your wedding at Legare Waring House requires a licensed wedding planner for your event; however, you can choose all of your wedding vendors! The caterer and bar service vendor must be licensed and insured.
The Lagare Waring House is a South Carolina State Park Wedding venue so you’re able to bring in your own catering and create a space that is truly one-of-a-kind.
Location: 1500 Old Towne Rd, Charleston, South Carolina 29407
Founders Hall:
Founder Hall is located along the banks of the Ashley River, Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site is known as the birthplace of South Carolina. This historically significant property is home to a unique venue, Founders Hall. The venue, brimming with state -of-the-art features, complements the natural beauty of Charles Towne Landing ’s setting and offers guests every modern convenience. Also run by the South Carolina State Parks system, makes Founder’s Hall a great wedding venue in Charleston, SC.
Location: 1500 Old Towne Rd, Charleston, SC 29407
Boone Hall
As you arrive at this majestic property, you’re greeted with the Avenue of Oaks is ¾ of a mile long and boasts 280 Spanish Moss draped trees. This alone makes it one of the most breathtaking backdrops for your ceremony. Making Boone Hall on of my favorite wedding venues in Charleston, SC. After you exchange your vows, move over to the Cotton Dock for your reception nestled in a majestic setting on a tidal marsh amongst over three centuries of history, beauty, and grace. Boone Hall has many epic picturesque locations to photograph as well.
Checkout the newly renovated Gin House for a welcome / rehearsal party that can accommodate up to 80 guests. Guests are welcomed to walk the gardens and property to learn more about the history of this plantation.
Location: 1235 Long Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, South Carolina 29464
Why Charleston for Your Destination Wedding
Hotels Near Charleston, SC
Charleston is such a popular destination because of its Southern Charm and wonderful friendly hospitality. The CHS International airport is literally 20-30 minutes from just about any location you’ll be staying near. From historic inns to modern hotels there’s a property for every taste. Here area few suggestions for you to check out:
The Dewberry Charleston
The Francis Marion
Hotel Bennett
The John Rutledge House
Mills House
Well that’s what I have today and you’ve made it! I hope you’re excited about planning your dream wedding in Charleston! Know that this list is curated from my personal experiences from visiting each venue and photographing at many of them. Want to learn more about me? Click here check out my services page.
Found this article helpful? Here are some other resources to help you plan your destination wedding!
• What to Ask A Wedding Venue Before You Book
• 10 First Dance Songs to Set the Mood of Your Wedding
• 5 Ways to Practice Self Care While Planning Your Wedding
• The Complete Wedding Day Glossary
Want to learn how I can help you capture your dream romantic wedding? Contact me today.
