Charleston, SC has quickly become a highly coveted destination for wedding ceremonies with 3,710 taking place in Charleston County in 2018 alone! From stunning historic manors to charming outdoor plantations, Charleston has endless wedding venue opportunities to fit each and every style. The Holy City is easily one of the most desirable places to tie the knot. So it’s no mystery why couples dream of getting married against a fragrant backdrop of Carolina jessamine and magnolias, under a Southern sun where golden hour photo ops are a must and Spanish moss sways in the breeze. Take a look at a few of our favorite Charleston wedding venues …
Gadsden House
What better place to host a wedding than at this historical Charleston manor gifted from a revolutionary war hero to his son as a wedding present? Built in 1798, the Gadsden House was completely restored in 2015 to enhance its elegant design and showcase its classic, floor-to-ceiling windows. The historic brick house with double piazzas pairs perfectly with modern fixtures and amber-colored heart pine flooring that is unparalleled in terms of its classic styling. Brides book this venue up to a year in advance for its on-site bridal suite, full kitchen, and ample outdoor reception space that more closely resembles a secret garden. Wrap-around piazzas outside and a dramatic staircase inside set the scene for the perfect wedding pictures, especially when elegant floral arrangements are draped along mantles in the background.
Photo: courtesy of Gadsden House
Boone Hall
Take a drive down the Avenue of Oaks, and you will soon understand why Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds said their vows on the rustic dock in the glow of a lowcountry sunset with the historical mansion in the distance. Oak trees cast shadows over the scenic grounds of Boone Hall Plantation, and you will become entranced at first sight of this breathtaking plantation. As the gentle afternoon sunlight shimmers through the silvery Spanish moss, you will understand why “The Notebook” was filmed at such a picturesque location. Boone Hall Plantation’s Cotton Dock, overlooking the stunning landscape of Horlbeck Creek makes the perfect romantic backdrop for both ceremonies and receptions. Optimal for couples looking to add historical charm amongst show-stopping nature preserves, Boone Hall holds the key to adding the perfect touch to your special day.
Photo: Dana Cubbage Weddings
Magnolia Plantation
With three separate wedding venues, Magnolia Plantation has a style to suit each and every couple. Contrary to its name, the Carriage House consists of an outdoor wedding ceremony beneath rustic oak trees with a ceremony that overlooks the Ashley River. The Carriage House itself is optimal for a post-wedding toast and dinner, while the outdoor patio beckons guests to mingle under the stars.
The Veranda, available from spring through fall, rests in the heart of Magnolia Plantation with expansive garden views beside the staple bridge that arches effortlessly across the planation’s pond. Expect a vintage-style reception under an opaque tent with delicate twinkle lights and ample greenery at a rustic dining table.
Photo: via Magnolia Plantation
Lastly, the Conservatory features a ceremony overlooking the Ashley River on the Schoolhouse Pond Lawn with a magical indoor reception area filled with tropical plants and greenery as far as the eye can see. It is certainly a must for couples wanting a taste of both an outdoor ceremony with an indoor reception.
Lowndes Grove
Classic Charleston architecture is on elegant display in this quiet, tree-lined neighborhood overlooking the Ashley River as the stately waterfront estate home rests in the foreground. Lowndes Grove Plantation brings both a picturesque setting and entertaining functionality to any event, the perfect venue for outdoor wedding ceremony where the iconic Charleston Peninsula delivers breathtaking views in the distance. Enjoy the reception on the lawn in front of the Main House, dinner and cocktails under a classic white tent, and a piazza that overlooks the grove and Ashley River.
Photo: via Lowndes Grove
While these are our favorites, and among some of the best known venues in the city, the list of picture perfect places to have the wedding of your dreams in the lowcountry is long. If you’re engaged and dreaming of a destination wedding in Charleston, which dream Charleston wedding venue is calling your name? And, if you were lucky enough to tie the knot at one of these iconic locations, we say Congrats – and share it with us!
NOTE: If you’re dreaming of a romance-filled destination wedding in Charleston, you’ll need a place to stay on the big day. You’re sure to have family and friends traveling from near and far as well, and they will want to experience all that Charleston has to offer for themselves! Check out our portfolio of luxury vacation rentals from a romantic pied-à-terre in the French Quarter or a modern loft uptown, to beach side getaways that sleep up to 32 … we’ve got something for everyone! We’re experts at helping you plan the perfect accommodations for you and the groom, your wedding party or even family & friends in town for the big day. Contact our Concierge team to help with all the booking details and start planning today!
