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Are you recently engaged and thinking about having a picturesque wedding in the charming city of Charleston, South Carolina? Look no further! As a Charleston-based wedding photographer, I am so excited to share with you the ultimate guide on how to get married in Charleston SC. From the best time of the year to have your wedding to the average cost of tying the knot in Charleston, let’s dive in!
How to get Married in Charleston SC
Table of contents:
- What is the Best Time of the Year for a Wedding in Charleston SC?
- How to Obtain a Charleston South Carolina Marriage License
- Charleston Wedding Venues That you Need to Check out
- Embrace the Southern Traditions
- Hiring a Charleston Wedding Photographer
- Average Cost of a Wedding in Charleston SC
This Southern gem of a city has quickly become very popular for hosting weddings. Whether you’re a local or planning a destination wedding, there is a little bit of everything for a scenic backdrop if you want a beach wedding, the Lowcountry vibe, or a city scene for photos. With our great hospitality here, there are many incredible hotels, restaurants, and things to do and see; you and your guests will have the most incredible wedding weekend ever.
What is the Best Time of the Year for a Wedding in Charleston SC?
Charleston is a relatively warm city, especially in the summer months. Before choosing a wedding date, think about the month and what the weather could be like. The busiest months for wedding vendors in Charleston are between April and June, and then it picks back up in September and October. Charleston summers can be brutally hot, so couples tend to stay away from getting married in July and August. One thing to note is that hurricane season starts in June and goes through November, so I highly suggest getting wedding insurance!
How to Obtain a Charleston South Carolina Marriage License:
You can apply for your marriage license once you’re thirty days away from your wedding. They’ve made it easy to do this, as you need to complete an application online and pay a $70 fee online.
Charleston Wedding Venues That you Need to Check out:
Charleston offers a plethora of wedding venues, each having a unique and different charm. I always recommend that couples take a venue tour before officially booking anything. To ensure availability and secure your dream wedding venue, booking well in advance is best, especially in the peak wedding months mentioned above. Here are just a few of my favorite wedding venues in Charleston:
- Lowndes Grove
- Legare Waring House
- Old Wide Awake
- Runnymede Plantation
- Middleton Plantation
- Gadsden House
- The Cedar Room
- Cannon Green
- Hotel Bennett
- Emeline
Embrace the Southern Traditions:
Charleston is steeped in rich Southern traditions, making it the perfect place to infuse your wedding with timeless customs. Consider incorporating a Lowcountry-inspired menu featuring local foods like shrimp and grits, crab cakes, or an oyster bar. You could also incorporate the Southern hospitality tradition by greeting your guests with a signature sweet tea or a fun Charleston welcome bag filled with local treats and souvenirs.
Hiring a Charleston Wedding Photographer:
Your wedding photographs will be cherished for a lifetime, capturing the essence and emotions of your special day. Hiring an incredible wedding photographer in Charleston is crucial to ensure your memories are beautifully preserved. I’ve been photographing weddings here in Charleston for a while now, and I know all of the best locations for engagement sessions and venues. If you’d like to learn more about my Charleston wedding photography, click here!
Average Cost of a Wedding in Charleston SC?
While the cost of a wedding in Charleston can vary depending on various factors, including guest count and venue choice, it’s important to have a general idea of what to expect. On average, weddings in Charleston can range from $50,000 to $80,000 or more. Remember that your venue, food, and beverage will be a big part of your budget. Even if you’ve fallen in love with a venue, make sure it’s in your budget because you don’t want your venue to drain your wedding budget and not have the space for anything else.
I have no doubt that no matter what your dreams or vision is for your big day, it will be incredible for you and your spouse. From selecting the best time of the year to choosing the perfect venue, I hope this guide has equipped you with the essential knowledge to embark on your Charleston wedding journey. Wedding planning can become overwhelming, but this guide on getting married in Charleston SC will be a great resource to you. So, embrace the enchanting city of Charleston and create lifelong memories on your special day. Happy planning!