Are you a Charleston bride starting your wedding planning journey? The first step is finding a venue that matches your vision, guest count, and overall experience. As a destination wedding photographer who often travels to Charleston, I’ve come to appreciate the beauty of this city and always want to visit again. Charleston wedding planning can be overwhelming, especially when choosing the perfect venue. THERE’S SO MANY OPTIONS! To help, I’ve narrowed down some of my favorites and what makes them stand out for your big day. Hopefully these ideas will help you find the best wedding venue in Charleston, SC for your event!

Lowndes Grove

When you look through Lowndes Grove photos, you will simply feel the romance in the air for a Charleston wedding. This venue features a waterfront estate along the Ashley River in Charleston, South Carolina, bringing that magical Lowcountry setting to life. What I love about this venue is the architecture, including the spacious piazzas, grand lawns, riverfront dock, and terraces.

• Scenic Location: From riverfront views to mossy, oak-lined grounds, every area is perfect for your wedding imagery and guest experience.
• Exclusive Culinary Services: Since Lowndes Grove is managed by Patrick Properties Hospitality Group, you’ll enjoy personalized menus crafted by an in-house culinary team.
• Privacy & Accessibility: Conveniently located near numerous hotels and restaurants, making it an ideal venue for a peaceful vacation afterward.
• Multiple spaces: Choose from various backdrops for your ceremony and reception, allowing your personalized vision to come to life.

If you’re planning a Lowndes Grove wedding, I’d be thrilled to photograph your day, it is the best wedding venue in Charleston SC! Get in touch for more details here.

 

William Aiken House

The William Aiken House, located in the heart of Charleston, SC, just off Upper King Street, is renowned for its timeless sophistication. With elegant interiors, lush private gardens, and a two-story carriage house, it serves as the perfect destination for a Charleston wedding. The venue’s pale yellow exterior embodies the city’s vibrant charm, blending seamlessly with its surroundings. A stunning centerpiece of the courtyard is a magnificent magnolia tree, adding to the venue’s picturesque appeal. Combining classic Southern charm with modern amenities, this venue offers an exceptional setting for unforgettable celebrations.

• Elegant Wedding: Featuring antique furnishings, original artwork, and architectural details, the venue provides a timeless and sophisticated backdrop.
• Versatile Spaces: Offers multiple indoor and outdoor areas, including grand ballrooms, courtyards, and terraces, to suit any wedding vision.
• Location: Located downtown Charleston, the venue provides easy access to hotels, dining, and local attractions.
• Exclusive: Also managed by Patrick Properties Hospitality Group, it delivers a unique culinary experience with the best service.
• Award Winning: Recognized as one of South Carolina’s premier wedding venues by Martha Stewart Weddings and Brides Magazine.

 

Cannon Green Events

Cannon Green is a refined event venue in downtown Charleston, SC, blending historic elegance with contemporary design. This venue has lots of Charleston charm with its gorgeous architecture, warm hospitality, and an inviting atmosphere. With spaces like the beautiful Garden Room, picturesque courtyard, and the large Trolley Room, Cannon Green offers a stunning backdrop for an intimate cozy wedding day.

• Versatile Spaces: Offering both indoor and outdoor options, this venue caters to intimate gatherings and larger celebrations alike.
• Location: Nestled in the Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood, it’s within walking distance of coffee shops, dining, and nearby Airbnb options.
• Catering: Experience artisan catering with customized menu options, ensuring a delightful dining experience for all guests.

 

 

Middleton Place

A wedding at Middleton Place offers an unforgettable blend of historic charm. Located along the Ashley River in Charleston, SC, Middleton Place is home to one of the oldest landscaped gardens in America, providing a stunning backdrop for your ceremony and reception. Highlights include sculpted terraces, manicured gardens, and moss-draped oak trees.

• Outdoor Spaces: From the lush gardens to the riverfront, there are numerous beautiful spots for wedding photography and guest exploration.
• Versatility: Multiple locations, such as Parterre & Butterfly Lakes, Secret Gardens, Middleton Oak, Octagonal Garden, and the Crane Pool, offer lovely settings for your ceremony.
• On-Site Lodging: The Inn at Middleton Place offers convenient accommodations just a short distance from the venue, ensuring easy access for you and your guests throughout the wedding weekend.

Hosting a Middleton Place Wedding? I’d love to join as your wedding photographer. Here are some recent blogs from the venue:

A Middleton Place Wedding | Claire + Pat

A Springtime Editorial at Middleton Place

A Lowcountry Wedding in Charleston | Mr + Mrs Ahern

A Middleton Place Timeless Editorial 

 

The Cottages on Charleston Harbor

The Cottages on Charleston Harbor offer a unique, coastal-chic wedding vibe with stunning waterfront views. Located in Mount Pleasant, SC, just a short drive from Charleston, the venue features two outdoor spaces perfect for your ceremony and reception. What I love about this venue is the luxurious accommodations in nearby cottages, providing both privacy and comfort for you and your guests. It’s a perfect choice for a bride who dreams of beautiful views of Charleston Harbor.

• Privacy: Nestled in a lush, waterfront setting, the cottages and venue offer an intimate, private space for your event.
• Spaces: Choose between two lawn areas: the expansive Grand Lawn, accommodating up to 150 guests, or the more intimate Harborside Lawn, perfect for up to 70 guests.
• Catering: Select from several catering services that offer a range of menu options to suit your preferences.

Legare Waring House

The Legare Waring House is located in Charles Towne Landing, surrounded by beautiful gardens and moss-draped trees, offering a lovely Charleston welcome. The venue features a two-story mansion with lush florals, a fountain patio, elegant suites, and an oak-lined avenue leading up to the mansion, where many ceremonies take place. The setting is incredibly romantic and natural, providing a truly unforgettable Charleston experience.

• Exclusive Setting: Nestled within a park, the Legare Waring House offers a private and intimate space for weddings, ensuring privacy for the couple and guests.
• Getting Ready Suites: The venue provides two distinct areas for the couple to get ready, each offering elegant spaces that complement the overall aesthetic of the venue.
• Charleston Charm: With its iconic Spanish moss and historic architecture, the Legare Waring House has the timeless Southern charm, perfect for a memorable wedding celebration​.

 

Gadsden House

The Gadsden House is a two-story restored heirloom venue located in downtown Charleston, SC, blending historic charm with modern elegance. It features elegant rooms such as a grand parlor with original floors, crystal chandeliers, and fireplaces. The venue also boasts large Southern piazzas and a courtyard garden full of florals and palm trees.

• Spaces: A combination of indoor and outdoor areas for seamless experiences and beautiful backdrops.
• Location: Centrally located in downtown Charleston with easy access to accommodations.
• Exclusive Atmosphere: Despite being in the heart of the city, the venue offers privacy within its lush, gated environment.
• Onsite Suites: Separate rooms for the bridal party to get ready.

 

If you are still looking for a Charleston wedding photographer or engagement photographer, I would love to meet you! To find out more details, reach out to me on my connect page here.

 

 

Similar blogs:

Lowndes Grove Wedding | Erika + Pat

Charleston Sunrise Engagement Session | Bryana + Ryan