There’s nothing quite as lovely as a southern summer wedding, and when searching for the ultimate location in Charleston, South Carolina, to say “I do,” you have a variety of picturesque options for the perfect nuptials. One couple may dream of an intimate rustic wedding, and for another pair, maybe it’s a formal ceremony with 200 guests. Every city and town has unique qualities, and Charleston often captures top billing as the number-one city in the United States.
Setting down roots in this magnificent port city with its cobblestone streets, pretty parks, and gorgeous gardens is easy to do, especially when the people are so friendly and welcoming. The historic homes for sale in Charleston, SC make up an important part of the city’s charming neighborhoods and vibrant way of life.
Decide on a Theme
A wedding theme is a visual component that ties the nuptials together and establishes that connection between the couple. The beauty of a wedding theme is in its almost endless categories to select from. The theme you choose will be reflected in your color or pattern of the day but also mirrored in the decor of your chosen wedding venue. When a couple locks in their venue, that decision will contribute to the style of their big day. In other words, securing the venue helps to lay down the foundation of your wedding.
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Plan Ahead
Wedding experts highly recommend planning ahead and organizing early. It’s stressful enough trying to coordinate the guest list, food, entertainment, flowers, etc. That’s why booking the wedding venue far in advance is a wise decision for a number of reasons.
For instance, when you seal the deal on a wedding venue, you’ll have greater control of your budget. It’s no secret that a fantastic wedding venue is popular for a reason. Maybe it’s the view or the ballroom’s stunning interior, for example. You don’t want to lose a beautiful venue reservation because you wasted time getting your plans in order.
When you secure the venue early, you’ll have ample time to research and choose the vendors you want. Such as the photographer, caterer, D.J., florist, and others.
Once you have the venue locked in, you’ll have the address for the nuptials so that you can get out your wedding invitations as well as know the capacity of the venue for the number of guests to accommodate.
From gorgeous waterfront venues to upscale gardens. We share the best tips for finding the perfect Charleston wedding venues to tie the knot in style.
Venue 1: Regatta Inn
Charleston offers some of the country’s most scenic areas, including the relaxing sand, sun and surf of Folly. Beautiful Folly Beach homes surround you in an idyllic, peaceful setting. You will be captivated by this charming waterfront hotel called the Regatta Inn, which overlooks the sensational Sunset Cay Marina. The venue features several indoor and outdoor reception spaces. You can’t miss it with a beachfront backdrop, and you can plan your ceremony on the sizable, grassy lawn by the marina. You could also opt for the lovely Sunset Terrace on the second floor of the inn, boasting a rooftop event space with spectacular views all around.
Venue 2: Cedar Room
Imagine getting married here and choosing the elegant Cedar Room located in the celebrated Cigar Factory. A handsomely restored 1881 building. The Cedar Room’s space is characterized by its industrial vibe with soaring ceilings, exposed brick walls, and large windows that allow natural light to flood the room. There’s also a built-in bar and a stunning courtyard with 1,500 square feet of space for your cocktail hour or reception.
Venue 3: Lowndes Grove
Another superb venue for your wedding day is located in downtown Charleston at Lowndes Grove, majestically standing along the oak-lined banks of the Ashley River. Envision saying “I do” in the Main House or celebrating your nuptials on one of the grand sunlit terraces or the almost endless piazza or out on the spacious. Manicured lawns with a permanent tent structure for the reception. Lowndes Grove is a most refined setting and is considered Charleston’s last great waterfront estate.
Venue 4: Gaillard Center
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Not only is the fabulous Gaillard Center a world-class performing arts center. But it is also a stunning wedding venue located in the heart of the Historic District. The center can host both your ceremony and reception for up to 400 guests. You can also choose to wed outdoors, where there’s a pretty lawn terrace available. The Gaillard is an absolutely marvelous venue with splendid ballrooms that make for a fairytale wedding.
Venue 5: Hibernian Hall
With its elegant Greek columns, Hibernian Hall proudly sits in the center of Charleston Historic District right at the edge of scenic Washington Square Park. Its gorgeous ballroom features dual staircases and floor-to-ceiling windows. The large reception space gives couples a variety of layout options for creating the ultimate reception.
Venue 6: The Francis Marion
Talk about classic Southern charm! The Francis Marion Hotel is admired for its 1924 grandeur and stately architecture. There are three ballrooms to choose from, each having distinctive furnishings and appeal, and the largest ballroom can accommodate up to 450 guests.
Imagine It, Envision It, and Make It Happen in Charleston
Walking down the aisle, wherever it may be, is a big deal, and you want to do it right and wed in a venue that feels special and one-of-a-kind. Charleston, SC is waiting for you this summer. It’s time to make your dreams come true!