Planning a Middleton Place Charleston Wedding
If you’re dreaming of a wedding day surrounded by sweeping gardens, serene water views, and centuries-old oak trees draped in Spanish moss, Middleton Place Charleston might be the perfect venue for you. Stunning wedding venues fill Charleston, but Middleton Place easily ranks as one of the most enchanting spots in the Lowcountry. With its sculpted terraces, reflective ponds, and romantic pathways winding through lush greenery, this property creates an unforgettable backdrop for both intimate ceremonies and grand celebrations. Whether you’re envisioning an elegant garden party or a timeless evening under the stars, this Charleston wedding venue offers a setting that feels both magical and uniquely Southern.
Table of Contents:
- About Middleton Place
- FAQ’s About Middleton Place Weddings
- Real Middleton Place Wedding Photos
- Middleton Place Wedding Cost
- Middleton Place Charleston Wedding Photographer
- Learn About More Charleston Wedding Venues
About Middleton Place
One of the things I love most about Middleton Place is its expansive property, which comes with endless opportunities to celebrate your wedding beyond the big day itself. This isn’t just a venue where you show up for the ceremony and reception, it’s a destination where you can create an entire weekend of memories with your closest family and friends.
Imagine kicking things off with a welcome picnic or casual cocktails as everyone arrives, then hosting a rehearsal dinner in one of the gorgeous on-site spaces. Want to add a little adventure? A guided kayaking outing along the river is the perfect way to give your guests a taste of the Lowcountry. You could plan an oyster roast under the stars, a bridal luncheon surrounded by blooming gardens, or a relaxed family dinner tucked away in one of the scenic corners of the property. If you can dream it, Middleton Place Charleston has the flexibility and setting to make it a reality.
Where is Middleton Place Charleston?
Middleton Place is located at 4300 Ashley River Road, just outside of downtown Charleston. Just down the road are other beloved Charleston wedding venues, including Lowndes Grove and Magnolia Plantation. From downtown, it’s a little over a 30-minute drive, and if you’re flying in, the Charleston International Airport (CHS) is less than 30 minutes away. The location strikes a nice balance. It’s close enough to enjoy everything Charleston has to offer, yet tucked far enough away to feel like you’re stepping into a peaceful oasis.
What is the Best Way to Travel to Charleston for a Wedding at Middleton Place?
For couples planning a destination wedding here, getting to Middleton Place Charleston is simple and stress-free. Ride shares like Uber and Lyft are available throughout the area, and rental cars are always an option for anyone who wants to explore more of the city before or after the wedding.
However, one of the biggest perks of choosing Middleton Place Charleston is that you don’t have to worry about transportation or accommodating guests across multiple hotels. The Inn at Middleton Place sits right on the property and offers 55 rooms for your wedding party, family, and friends to reserve. It’s an incredible convenience, most of your guest list can stay in one place, meaning you can keep the entire wedding weekend centered around the venue. From welcome drinks to the ceremony, late-night celebrations, and the next morning’s brunch, everything unfolds seamlessly without any driving or shuttle coordination. Hosting everyone at The Inn transforms your wedding into a relaxed experience, allowing you to savor every moment with your loved ones.
FAQ’s About Middleton Place Weddings
When couples begin exploring wedding venues, several common questions often arise. Things like guest capacity, ceremony and reception options, catering, and accessibility. To make your planning easier, I’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions, providing a clearer picture of what to expect at this stunning venue.
What’s the Guest Capacity of Middleton Place?
This is one of the trickiest questions to answer because Middleton Place Charleston offers a variety of ceremony and reception spaces, each with its own unique layout and capacity. Generally speaking, most spaces can comfortably host up to 200 guests, while a few can even accommodate more if you’re planning a larger celebration. Whether you’re envisioning an intimate gathering or a wedding with an extensive guest list, the property offers plenty of flexibility, allowing you to find the space that feels like the best fit for your special day.
What Ceremony Spaces do I Have to Choose From?
Middleton Place Charleston has seven ceremony spaces to choose from, each with its own character and breathtaking views, which makes deciding on just one a tough choice.
- Parterre and Butterfly Lakes – Elegant sculpted terraces lead down to the butterfly-shaped lakes that extend to the Ashley River, creating a dramatic and unforgettable backdrop.
- Secret Gardens – Two separate formal gardens with manicured hedges and four marble statues representing the seasons. This is a romantic and refined setting for couples who love symmetry and classic landscaping.
- Middleton Oak – Nestled along the riverbank, this ceremony spot is shaded by a more than 900-year-old oak tree. It’s one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring places to say your vows.
- Octagonal Garden – This space overlooks the Ashley River and features seasonal blooms and flowers, with dreamy Spanish moss visible from nearly every angle.
- Crane Pool – Overlooking a reflective pond and the hillside of blooming azaleas, this is a colorful and romantic option, especially in spring.
- The Stableyards – For couples drawn to rustic charm, this area is surrounded by natural beauty and features historic craft demonstrations, creating a truly unique atmosphere for your ceremony.
- The Bluff at The Inn at Middleton Place – A more intimate option that overlooks the Ashley River, perfect for couples wanting a private and serene outdoor ceremony.
With so many choices, couples can select the ceremony space that reflects their personalities and the vision they have for their wedding day.
What Reception Spaces do They Offer?
Middleton Place Charleston also provides three versatile reception spaces, each with its own vibe:
- The Pavilion – Accommodating up to 200 guests, this space offers stunning views of Eliza’s House, the Greensward, and the House Museum. With floor-to-ceiling windows and an open, airy design, it works beautifully for elegant receptions of any style.
- The Lake House at The Inn at Middleton Place – With room for up to 250 guests, this space feels tucked away, surrounded by woodland and peaceful pond views. It features two decks and an outdoor patio, making it a dream for couples who love incorporating the outdoors.
- The Cypress Room and Inn Courtyard – Overlooking the Ashley River, this reception option can host up to 200 guests and features gorgeous architecture from The Inn at Middleton Place as its backdrop.
Are There Getting Ready Spaces on-site?
Yes! Couples and their wedding party can use rooms at The Inn at Middleton Place to get ready on the big day. The Ashley River Room, in particular, is spacious and filled with natural light, making it perfect for both relaxing with your bridal party and capturing beautiful getting-ready photos. One of the best parts about hosting your wedding here is the convenience. You can stay at the inn the night before, wake up and get ready right on site, and then head to your ceremony and reception steps away. Having everything in one place keeps the day stress-free and lets you enjoy every moment without rushing around town.
Can we Hire an Outside Caterer?
Middleton Place Charleston offers in-house catering, so hiring an outside caterer is neither necessary nor permitted. Their team takes pride in creating menus that reflect Charleston’s rich culinary traditions, serving delicious and beautifully presented meals that your guests will love. Using their catering team ensures that everything flows seamlessly, from cocktails on the lawn to a perfectly timed plated dinner or buffet.
How can we Take a Tour of Middleton Place Charleston?
Setting up a tour of Middleton Place is easy. You can fill out their online inquiry form with details about your wedding, and a member of their team will be in touch with you. You can also call directly if you’d like to speak to someone right away. Touring the venue in person is the best way to see the property’s many ceremony and reception spaces and envision how your wedding day could unfold here.
Is Middleton Place Handicap Accessible?
Yes, Middleton Place Charleston is generally handicap accessible. The main event spaces accommodate guests with mobility needs. However, because the property is large and some spaces are spread out, consider asking about transportation options, such as shuttles or golf carts, to help guests move easily between locations. This ensures everyone feels comfortable and cared for throughout the celebration.
Do They Provide Parking for My Guests?
Yes! Whether your guests are staying overnight at The Inn or simply driving in for the celebration, Middleton Place offers plenty of on-site parking. Having a dedicated lot makes it simple and stress-free for everyone to arrive and enjoy the day without worrying about where to leave their car.
Does Middleton Place Require me to Hire a Charleston Wedding Planner?
Yes, Middleton Place Charleston does require couples to work with a licensed and insured wedding planner. This requirement helps you manage every detail seamlessly, keeping your day running smoothly from start to finish. With a venue this large and customizable, a planner is truly valuable. They’ll coordinate logistics, oversee vendors, and help bring your vision to life. Hiring a Charleston wedding planner is also one of the best gifts you can give yourself. It allows you to be fully present and stress-free on your wedding day.
Real Middleton Place Wedding Photos
One of the things that makes photographing weddings at Middleton Place Charleston so special is the sheer variety of backdrops the property offers. Because the grounds are so expansive, we can capture an incredible range of images without ever leaving the venue. From portraits beneath ancient oak trees draped in Spanish moss to romantic moments along the banks of the Ashley River, every corner seems made for wedding photography. The timeless brick architecture of the historic buildings adds even more variety, giving you those classic Charleston vibes in your gallery. And if you’re looking for something playful and unique, Middleton Place even has sheep roaming the property. They make for some of the most memorable and fun wedding day photos. With so many options, your wedding album showcases a rich, dynamic, and uniquely personal story.
Middleton Place Wedding Cost
Middleton Place Charleston doesn’t list pricing directly on their website, so I cannot share the cost. Like most wedding venues, the price will vary depending on several factors, including the day of the week, the month you choose, and which areas of the property you plan to use for your ceremony and reception. Peak wedding months typically come with higher rates, while off-season dates may offer more flexibility.
The best way to get an accurate quote is to contact the venue and discuss your vision in detail. Once you share your plans, whether it’s a small, intimate gathering or a multi-day celebration with multiple spaces, they’ll be able to provide a customized estimate explicitly tailored to your wedding. This personalized approach ensures that you only pay for what you actually want and need, making it easier to plan a celebration that’s both beautiful and practical.
Middleton Place Charleston Wedding Photographer
As a Charleston wedding photographer, I’ve had the joy of capturing a few beautiful weddings at Middleton Place, and the property’s charm and versatility never fail to inspire me. From the sweeping gardens and majestic oak trees to the river views and unique architecture, there’s something magical around every corner. I would love to photograph your wedding day and bring your vision to life.
Beyond photography, I also offer bundles that include videography and creative content for your wedding day, allowing you to preserve every moment in multiple ways. My goal is to capture your day authentically and in a timeless manner. If you’re planning your Middleton Place wedding and want someone who knows the venue and can create a complete storytelling experience, I’d love to connect with you.
Learn About More Charleston Wedding Venues
Still in the early stages of your wedding planning or exploring different venue options? I’ve compiled numerous guides and resources on other Charleston wedding venues, each offering detailed insights, expert tips, and stunning photos to help you envision your special day. Take your time browsing through them, and hopefully you’ll find the perfect spot that feels just right for you. Charleston is full of incredible spaces, and the right venue is out there waiting to make your wedding day unforgettable.
