As a Charleston SC wedding photographer, I’ve fallen in love with the southern charm of this beautiful city and the incredible weddings celebrated here each year. When planning your Charleston wedding, one of the most important factors to consider is the season you’re hoping to celebrate in. To help you decide, I’ve compiled a list of pros and cons for each season, giving you key factors to consider when choosing your date and venue

Spring, March – May

One of the most popular seasons for the Charleston wedding market—and for good reason!

PROS:

DREAMY BLOOMS : Spring flowers like azaleas, magnolias, and wisteria are in full bloom, creating stunning backdrops for your portraits and overall aesthetic. Venues like Lowndes Grove and Middleton Place showcase these blooms beautifully.

IDEAL WEATHER : The weather is absolutely PERFECT—not only for your hair and makeup but also for your guests’ comfort. With low humidity, it’s an ideal time for outdoor ceremonies and receptions. Hosting an outdoor ceremony and reception creates a spacious and inviting atmosphere, and with a wedding venue in charleston sc, the natural ambiance alone provides a breathtaking setting.

CONS:

CROWDS : The beauty of spring draws crowds. To ensure a smooth guest experience, secure transportation, hotel blocks, and RSVPs earlier than usual. Check for overlapping events when booking hotels, dates, and transportation to avoid potential conflicts.

VENDORS : Vendors book up quickly! I always love to suggest that if you have someone in mind, reach out as soon as possible — it never hurts to inquire early. (If you’re looking for a Charleston wedding photographer, I’d love to capture your day—[inquire here]!)

TEMPERATURES : Early mornings and nights can be a bit cooler, which is a perfect excuse for a stylish outfit change or cozying up with your partner.

ALLERGY SEASON : Keep in mind that springtime blooms also bring pollen, which can affect guests with allergies.

Read: ‘A Spring Charleston Wedding | Middleton Place’

 

Summer, June – September

Summer is often the second to last popular season for weddings in Charleston, but with the right planning, it can still be incredibly beautiful!

PROS:

EXTENDED DAYLIGHT : Long summer days are a photographer’s dream, giving you more time for portraits, cocktail hour vibes, and enjoying the stunning views your venue and Charleston provide.

TIMELESS CHARM : Charleston remains breathtakingly beautiful, even in the summer heat. Make sure to still get out there in the early mornings and late evenings to take it all in.

CONS:

INTENSE HEAT : Summer in Charleston is HOT, with high humidity and temperatures. To keep guests comfortable, consider planning an indoor ceremony and reception, especially if your wedding weekend falls during a heatwave. Consider lots of refreshments, umbrellas, and fans throughout the wedding day.

HURRICANE SEASON : Summer marks the beginning of hurricane season. Invest in wedding insurance for peace of mind, and always have backup plans ready. Rain often comes in short bursts, so flexibility is key—don’t hesitate to push your ceremony back by 15 minutes if needed. The extended daylight works in your favor too!

BUGS : After rain, bugs can become a real nuisance. Be prepared with bug repellant and consider providing some for your guests as well.

READ: ‘Wedding Venues in Charleston SC‘

Fall, October – November

Fall is the second most popular wedding season in Charleston. It’s similar to spring in many ways, but being in the South, it requires careful consideration.

PROS:

PERFECT WEATHER : Fall offers cooler days and comfortable temperatures, making it enjoyable for you and your guests.

LUSH FOLIAGE : While you won’t find the vibrant blooms of spring, the greenery remains lush and provides a beautiful backdrop.

CONS:

HURRICANES : Fall is the peak of hurricane season, so patience and wedding insurance are essential. Be prepared with backup plans for potential weather disruptions.

BUSY SEASON ROUND 2: Cooler temperatures make fall even busier than summer, so securing transportation and hotel blocks early is key to ensuring a smooth guest experience.

SHORTER DAYS : With earlier sunsets, coordinating with your wedding photographer for lighting and timeline adjustments is crucial to capturing those dreamy Charleston wedding photos.

 

Read: ‘A Charleston Wedding at Lowndes Grove‘

Winter, December – Feb

Winter may be the least busy wedding season in Charleston, but with the right mindset and vision, it can be incredibly romantic and magical.

PROS:

ROMANTIC AMBIANCE : With the holidays just around the corner, winter weddings can feel like a Hallmark movie come to life. This season is perfect for creating a cozy, intimate, and inviting atmosphere.

OFF-SEASON PERKS : Winter is the off-season for most venues and vendors, meaning greater availability for your favorite vendor team. Additionally, lower tourist traffic makes logistics smoother for your guests.

CONS:

SHORTER DAYS : Winter’s shorter daylight hours require careful planning. Consider an earlier ceremony start time, such as 3:00 PM, to ensure your portraits are beautifully lit. A first look is also a great option to maximize photo opportunities.

COOLER WEATHER : While Charleston winters are milder than many places, it can still get chilly. Including a light jacket for yourself and bridesmaids, and blankets for your guests can add both comfort and charm.

Spring and fall offer the most ideal weather for Charleston weddings. However, the best season ultimately depends on your personal preferences and priorities. Factors like weather, budget, guest comfort, and your desired wedding aesthetic (outdoors, cozy, florals, etc.) should all be considered when making your decision. Regardless of the season, Charleston provides a stunning backdrop for any wedding. As a Charleston wedding photographer, I’ve witnessed the magic of weddings in this city firsthand and I would love to be part of your day!

View some of my Charleston work here:

Middleton Place Wedding | Spring

Downtown Engagement Session | Summer

Middleton Place Editorial | Spring