Top 7 Wedding Venues in Charleston
Embarking on the adventure for the ideal Charleston wedding venue? Every engaged couple who decides to get married in this beautiful city faces the same hard decision. There are so many incredible wedding venues in Charleston to choose from. To ease your decision-making, I’ve curated a list of my top 7 personal favorite wedding venues in Charleston. Ranging from picturesque estates to charming downtown locations, there’s a wedding venue for every couple!
Table of contents:
- Top 7 Best Wedding Venues in Charleston
- FAQ’S About Getting Married in Charleston
- Charleston Wedding Photography Packages
- A Full Guide to Getting Married in Charleston SC
Top Wedding Venues in Charleston:
Legare Waring House
A testament to timeless romance and historic elegance, Legare Waring House provides both when you get married at this venue. This venue offers a beautiful oasis with moss-draped oak trees, a preserved 1840s home, and an enchanting garden ambiance.
Top features of the venue:
- Legare Waring House has a capacity for up to 200 guests.
- Primarily an outdoor wedding venue.
- Offers a peaceful setting with romantic garden vibes.
Where it’s located:
Conveniently situated at 1500 Old Towne Rd. Charleston, South Carolina, Legare Waring House is just a 15-minute drive from downtown Charleston. Its proximity to the city allows for easy access to beautiful hotels.
Things to note:
- Bridal suites: Four bridal suites are available upstairs in the historic home, offering ample space for you and your bridal party to prepare for the big day.
- Groom’s quarters: A separate wing of the house is dedicated to the men’s preparation area, ensuring everyone has space to get ready.
- Parking and shuttle service: Ample parking is available at the entrance, and a shuttle service transports guests to the venue, enhancing the convenience for everyone.
- Vendor requirements: Legare Waring House requires a licensed wedding planner, caterer, and bar services for your event to ensure a seamless and well-coordinated celebration.
- Accessibility: The venue is handicap accessible.
Average cost to get married at Legare Waring House:
The average cost to get married at this Charleston wedding venue varies. During peak season, you can expect prices between $8,000 and $10,000. During the off-season, they lower prices for couples to $6,000 to $8,000.
Complete guide to getting married at Legare Waring House:
For an in-depth guide on getting married at Legare Waring House, including more about the venue, frequently asked questions, and the best nearby accommodations, check out my Ultimate Guide to Having Your Wedding at Legare Waring House!
Gadsden House
Seamlessly blending historic character with contemporary charm, Gadsden House is a venue in Charleston that exudes sophistication. The modern amenities make the historical space even more stunning.
Top features of the venue:
- Gadsden House can host up to 180 guests, providing an intimate yet spacious atmosphere for your wedding.
- Enchanting spaces from gardens and piazzas.
- The venue itself is stunning for photos, but there are fantastic nearby locations that I love utilizing for portraits.
Where it’s located:
This venue, ideally located downtown, is at 38 Alexander St., Charleston, South Carolina. The proximity of all the beautiful hotels, restaurants, and bars, everything is located within walking distance.
Things to note:
- Getting ready spaces: They offer both a bridal suite and groom’s quarters so that everything can be in one location, and you don’t have to stress about finding an area to get ready in.
- On-site catering: Enjoy the convenience of on-site catering, ensuring an incredible culinary experience for you and your guests.
- Vendor requirement: They require a full-service wedding planner or at least a day of coordinator.
- Parking: While city-metered parking and a nearby city garage are available, guests can also opt for walking or an Uber ride from their hotels.
- Accessibility: Gadsden House is handicap accessible.
Average cost to get married at Gadsden House:
Contacting them directly to get an accurate quote for your wedding at Gadsden House. Costs may vary based on factors such as the day of the week and the month of your wedding.
View More Weddings That I’ve Photographed at Gadsden House:
Lowndes Grove
Immerse yourself in the timeless allure of Lowndes Grove. You may have seen this incredible wedding venue already, as it’s in the Netflix show ‘Outer Banks.’ Hosting your wedding here, you really can’t go wrong with the natural beauty it provides.
Top features of the venue:
- Lowndes Grove accommodates weddings ranging from 200 to 300 guests.
- The photo opportunities on the property are endless. You’ll surely have the best wedding photos from the oak trees to the private dock over the Ashley River during sunset.
- This Charleston wedding venue has an excellent space for large weddings while retaining its intimate Southern charm.
Where it’s located:
Nestled along the Ashley River and near downtown, you can find this Charleston wedding venue at 266 St Margaret St, Charleston, South Carolina.
Things to note:
- Getting ready spaces: The entire second floor is dedicated to the wedding party to prepare for the wedding. Each room boasts natural light and an amazing ambiance for all the pre-wedding moments.
- In-house catering and bar services: Lowndes Grove provides in-house catering and bar services to ensure excellent service and food. You’ll work closely with them to create the perfect menu.
- Parking: Guests benefit from on-site parking, but they also encourage guests to be transported.
- Vendor requirements: Lowndes Grove understands the importance of a well-coordinated event and requires each couple to have a wedding planner.
- Accessibility: This wedding venue is handicap accessible.
Average cost to get married at Lowndes Grove:
The cost of hosting your dream wedding at Lowndes Grove varies depending on the season. To obtain an accurate quote, reach out directly to the venue.
Complete Guide to Planning a Lowndes Grove Wedding:
If you’re searching for more information on hosting your own wedding at Lowndes Grove, I’ve got a great guide that leaves no detail unexplored. Dive into in-depth FAQs and discover nearby hotels. Check out my guide by clicking here!
River House at Lowndes Grove
On the scenic grounds of Lowndes Grove, the River House stands as an intimate gem within the grandeur of this historic estate. It is ideal for those envisioning a more private celebration with a smaller guest list.
Top features of the venue:
- With a capacity for up to 100 guests, it’s the perfect choice if you’ve got a smaller guest list.
- You can utilize all the same incredible photo spots as the main house.
- Your ceremony can be held with the Ashley River in the background, and then have an al fresco dining setup for your reception.
Where it’s located:
You can find this venue at 266 St Margaret St Charleston, South Carolina, located on the same property as the main house at Lowndes Grove.
Things to note:
- Getting ready spaces: Two elegant guest suites are available for getting ready. However, you should double check with the hotel if there is a fee for doing so.
- On-site catering: Indulge in culinary excellence and seamless beverage service at River House at Lowndes Grove offers in-house catering and bar services.
- Vendor requirement: When you tour this venue, they’ll tell you much more information and will surely let you know if it’s required to have a planner.
- Parking: Despite being on the same property, the River House has a separate entrance and provides on-site parking.
- Accessibility: This wedding venue is handicap accessible.
Average cost to host a wedding at River House at Lowndes Grove:
While the River House at Lowndes Grove is more budget-friendly than the main house, I recommend contacting the venue directly for an accurate quote.
View More Weddings That I’ve Photographed at River House at Lowndes Grove:
Old Wide Awake Plantation
Embrace the Southern charm and discover the hidden gem of Old Wide Awake Plantation. You’re welcomed with a tree-lined entrance, creating a captivating scene that sets the tone for an authentic experience.
Top features of the venue:
- The guest capacity is 250 guests for weddings.
- Wrap-around covered porches offer a touch to the already gorgeous Southern atmosphere.
- Exchange vows on the moss-covered front steps of the home and then move the celebration to the lawn under a tent.
Where it’s located:
5149 Trexler Ave in Hollywood, South Carolina, is the location of Old Wide Awake Plantation. It is on the outskirts of Charleston, but it’s worth the drive!
Things to note:
- Getting-ready spaces: The main house offers two getting-ready suites, with one featuring charming floral wallpaper providing a cute photo space.
- On-site catering: Old Wide Awake does not provide catering or beverage service, allowing you to tailor your celebration to your preferences.
- Parking: It provides on-site parking, making it convenient for your guests.
- Vendor requirements: They don’t require a full-service wedding planner but can give suggestions if you want to use one.
- Accessibility: You’ll want to visit the space and ask the venue if it’s fully handicap accessible.
Average cost to get married at Old Wide Awake Plantation:
For a Saturday wedding during peak season, pricing starts at $5,000. More detailed pricing information is available on their website, including an availability calendar for your wedding date.
Old Wide Awake Plantation Wedding Guide:
Explore more about hosting a wedding at Old Wide Awake Plantation through my guide, which is jam-packed with amazing details! If you’re interested in learning more about this wedding venue, click here, and it will take you to my ultimate planning guide.
The Governor Thomas Bennett House
Renowned as one of the grandest historic homes in Charleston, this venue unfolds its rich history in an exquisite setting. The allure of this venue lies not only in its architecture but also in the seamless flow of events.
Top features of the venue:
- This Charleston wedding venue can accommodate up to 75 guests for indoor weddings and up to 230 guests for outdoor weddings.
- Hold your ceremony around a fountain in the shade of a 200-year-old oak tree.
- The venue is gorgeous, so you can do all your wedding photos on the property.
Where it’s located:
The Governor Thomas Bennett House is situated right on the outskirts of downtown Charleston, and it is located at 69 Barre St., Charleston, South Carolina.
Things to note:
- Getting ready spaces: The bridal suite is on the second floor, while the groom’s quarters are on the ground floor. Providing plenty of space for the pre-wedding preparations.
- On-site catering: They do not provide catering, so you’ll need to hire an outside licensed and insured caterer and bar service.
- Vendor requirement: You’ll want to double-check whether you need a wedding planner.
- Parking: Ensure convenience for your guests with complimentary onsite parking.
- Accessibility: The venue is handicap accessible, ensuring inclusivity for all.
Average cost to get married at The Governor Thomas Bennett House:
You’ll want to contact them directly to get a quote for the cost of a wedding at The Governor Thomas Bennett House. You can contact them by clicking here.
Check out a few of my favorite photos from a few The Governor Thomas Bennett House weddings:
William Aiken House
Charleston recognizes this distinguished wedding venue as a historic landmark. While the property offers a captivating backdrop for all your wedding photos, the allure of the iconic Charleston streets beckons for an adventure.
Top features of the venue:
- This downtown Charleston wedding venue can host up to 500 guests.
- They offer versatile indoor and outdoor spaces if you’d like a mix of both for your wedding day.
- From ballrooms, private gardens, and two courtyards, you can space out your whole wedding day, making it a smooth transition between the main events.
Where it’s located:
The charming William Aiken House is at 456 King St. Charleston, South Carolina. It’s in the heart of downtown, making it convenient and close to everything!
Things to note:
- Getting ready spaces: Take advantage of the two guest suites on the property for overnight stays and comfortable getting-ready locations.
- On-site catering: Indulge in the culinary offerings with catering and beverage services provided in-house by this wedding venue.
- Vendor requirement: The website doesn’t mention that you must have a wedding planner, but this is information you can always find out during a tour.
- Parking: As it is located downtown, you’ll need to inquire directly with the venue about handling parking for your guests.
- Accessibility: William Aiken House is handicap accessible for all guests.
Average cost to host a wedding at William Aiken House:
For detailed pricing and to plan your dream wedding at William Aiken House, reach out to them directly.
Check out a few of my favorite photos from a few William Aiken House weddings:
FAQ’S ABOUT GETTING MARRIED IN CHARLESTON:
Now that we’ve gone over several Charleston wedding venues, you might find yourself brimming with questions about what it’s like getting married in Charleston.
How much does a marriage license cost in Charleston?
The application fee for a marriage license is $70, payable by credit card with a transaction fee. Please note that this payment is non-refundable.
How long does it take to get a marriage license in Charleston?
After submitting your completed application, you can expect to receive your marriage license via email within two business days. It will be available for print and use, accompanied by an instruction sheet.
What documents do you need to get married in Charleston?
Applicants must provide one form of identification from the options listed: a valid driver’s license, original birth certificate or a certified copy, current passport, or current military identification card. Additionally, all applicants must include proof of their social security number through a social security card, a tax return displaying the applicant’s name and number, or a W-2 tax form showing the same information.
How much does the average wedding in Charleston cost?
Typically, weddings in Charleston, South Carolina, can vary in cost, ranging from $50,000 to $80,000 or higher. The primary expenses in your budget will mainly revolve around your venue, food and beverage choices.
CHARLESTON WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY PACKAGES:
Now that you have narrowed your wedding venue selection, the next step is finding the perfect Charleston wedding photographer. I would love to capture the magic of your beautiful wedding day in Charleston. Fill out my contact form here, and I’ll say hello and send over all the fun information! Be sure to let me know which wedding venues in Charleston were your favorites!
A FULL GUIDE TO GETTING MARRIED IN CHARLESTON SC:
And that’s it – my favorite 7 wedding venues in Charleston! I hope you can envision your big day unfolding at one of these fantastic venues. I’ve put together another guide similar to this one to help you learn how to get married in Charleston. Take advantage of exploring topics like incorporating Southern traditions, best time of the year to have a wedding in Charleston, and much more!
