Photo by Maggie Braucher
Travel

Best Places to Get Married in Charleston, SC: A Planning Guide

by Milica Zarin 28 Feb 2024 •5 min read
Are you thinking about getting married in Charleston, South Carolina? Because if you do, we totally get it. Those cobblestone stress, wonderful architecture, and blooming gardens promise an unforgettable experience.
There are so many beautiful places to get married in Charleston, SC. Imagine saying your vows beneath ancient oaks or having a view of the Atlantic Ocean. This destination blends history and romance to make your big day even more special.
In this article, we’ll guide you through every aspect of planning your Charleston celebration. From the details of floral arrangements to the practicalities of obtaining your marriage license, we've got you covered.

Average Costs

Planning a wedding is an exciting journey, but managing the financial aspects requires careful consideration and strategic budgeting. Knowing the average costs of venues, catering, flowers, and other details will help you plan your wedding day more effectively.
Here are some of the average costs:
  • Venue: $4,000 - $10,000
  • Wedding planner: $2,000 - $7,000 (depending on the package)
  • Photographer: $3500 - $5000
  • Catering: $50 - $150
  • Wedding cake: $300 - $1,500
  • Flowers and decorations: $2,000 - $6,500
  • Hair and makeup: $100 - $300

Wedding Planners

Wedding planning can get a bit overwhelming and that’s why many couples choose to hire a wedding planner. They can help you get through the maze of decisions, timelines, and details so that your journey to 'I do' is not just memorable but also stress-free.
We’ve put together a list of wedding planners in Charleston:
  • Anderson Event Design will work hard to organize and execute all your plans so that you and your guests can fully enjoy the celebration.
  • Curated Events Charleston is a full-service planning company that promises passion, dedication, and creativity.

Venues

Do you wish to exchange vows in a setting marked by centuries-old charm, or does the appeal of modern elegance against a backdrop of Southern splendor intrigue you? The choice is yours, because the places to get married in Charleston, SC are as diverse as the city itself.
Our favorite venues in the city include:
  • The Dewberry Charleston is your choice if you like timeless elegance, historic preservation, and artistic collaboration. This place captures the city’s subtle glamour at its best.
  • Kiawah Island Sanctuary Hotel & Resort is a luxury beach hotel that delivers Forbs Five Star service. The golf courses with a view of the ocean ensure a memorable romantic experience.
  • Cannon Green is one of the most unique properties in the city. This venue combines history, beauty, romance, and cosmopolitan style to create the perfect spot for your celebration.

Photographers

You have one role during your wedding day–to have the time of your life. Photographers have another big role–to freeze all the important moments in time and transform them into memories that will last a lifetime.
Take a look at our list of photographers in Charleston:
  • Aaron & Jillian Photography are a husband-and-wife photography team and they specialize in engagement sessions, bridal sessions, and elegant and chic style weddings. 
  • Maggie Braucher is a wedding photographer who loves to document all the little details on your special day, especially those hidden moments that would happen regardless of a camera being there. 

Marriage License in Charleston, SC

After considering the places to get married in Charleston, SC, let’s talk about legalities. To get married, you’ll need to obtain a marriage license and we’re here to guide you through the process.
  1. Prepare some form of valid identification–driver’s license, birth certificate, passport.
  2. Apply online or at the Charleston County Probate Court.
  3. Pay for the fee, which is $70.
  4. The marriage license doesn’t have an expiration date, but you'll have to wait 24-48 hours until it is issued.

Bridal Salons

Many brides-to-be can’t wait for the most exciting part of their wedding planning journeys, which is visiting bridal salons and saying yes to the dress. Charleston is home to many boutiques you can choose from, so get ready for an exciting shopping adventure.
Loverly’s top picks are:
  • Maddison Row South is the perfect place if you prefer timeless elegance and classic designs tailored to a modern bride. A wide selection of dresses combined with the team’s expertise will ensure a smooth experience.
  • Modern Trousseau Charleston presents beautiful models made from Italian and French lace. This makes all gowns have a romantic touch.

Florists

Flowers have an important role in your wedding because they can transform any place into your personalized paradise. Fragrant boutiques and breathtaking centerpieces add a sweet touch to any celebration.
Consider these florists from Charleston:
  • Festoon Charleston is a luxury wedding floral company that provides its clients with light and airy garden blooms, from bouquets to various table installations.
  • Pretty Petals of Charleston strives to push the boundaries and help you create a unique event just the way you want it.
  • Fresh Weddings & Events pays close attention to all the little details and loves to see the bride’s excitement when she receives the flowers just the way she imagined them.
Bonus Tip
To incorporate flowers into your wedding theme in the best way possible, follow our useful tips:
  1. Work closely with your florist to ensure that the chosen blooms complement your wedding color palette.
  2. Take inspiration from the surroundings of your chosen venue.
  3. Your bouquet and the groom's boutonniere are personal expressions of your style.
  4. Don't be afraid to get creative. Incorporate florals into unexpected elements like your hair, the cake, or even your wedding favors.

Makeup and Hair Artists

Your wedding is an event in which the spotlight shines on you. That’s why we’re diving into the world of hair and makeup artists who can create a look that radiates confidence and reflects who you are. 
Loverly’s favorite artists, among others, are:
  • Blushing Brides Charleston is a hair and makeup team that can create timeless looks and ensure you feel like a true princess. They travel to their brides so they can have a stress-free experience on such an important day.
  • Lashes And Lace is another team that will travel to you. Their team of stylists will create any look you want and make you feel and look your best.

Locations for Wedding Photos

  • Waterfront Park: The iconic pineapple fountain, lush gardens, and the view of the Cooper River make Waterfront Park will ensure romantic photos.
  • Historic downtown streets: The cobblestone streets, pastel-colored houses, and historic architecture create a one-of-a-kind atmosphere that transports your wedding photos to a bygone era.
  • White Point Garden: Because of its centuries-old oak trees and historic monuments, many choose this park to capture their moments of love.
  • Folly Beach: If you want a touch of coastal magic, Folly Beach offers sandy shores, crashing waves, and breathtaking sunsets.

Getting Married in Charleston, SC: Guest Guide

Once you go through the bridal salons, florists, places to get married in Charleston, SC, and everything else, it’s time to think about your guests. Especially about those out-of-the-town guests.
We’ve prepared a guest guide to help you out.

How to Get to Charleston

The most convenient transportation options are:
  • By plane: Charleston International Airport (CHS) welcomes guests from around the world with its modern facilities and Southern hospitality. It is located just a short drive from the city center.
  • By car: For those who prefer the freedom of the open road, driving to Charleston is a scenic journey. The city is accessible via major highways, 
  • Public transportation: From buses to trolleys, Charleston provides many options that make navigating the city center and surrounding areas a breeze.

Places for Out-of-Town Guests to Stay

Our accommodation options that promise comfort are:
  • The Dewberry Charleston (hotel): A luxurious hotel that combines mid-century modern design with Southern hospitality. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, a rooftop terrace, and proximity to historic landmarks like Marion Square.
  • Belmond Charleston Place (hotel): With an upscale spa, rooftop pool, and renowned dining options, this hotel offers a nice retreat for guests seeking refinement and convenience.
  • Zero George Street (bed-and-breakfast): For a charming and intimate experience, Zero George Street offers boutique accommodations in a series of historic residences. 
  • Wentworth Mansion (bed-and-breakfast): This 19th-century mansion has luxurious suites, a spa, and a rooftop cupola with stunning views of the city.

Start Your Stress-Free Wedding Planning with Loverly

If you want to connect with countless talented vendors and make your wedding planning experience fun and stress-free, let Loverly assist you. Loverly offers an entire world of inspiration, useful tips, and wedding planning tools to ease the process of planning.
Now, you know it all: the average costs, bridal salons, florists, photographers, and the best places to get married in Charleston, SC. All you have to do is get married and have the time of your life!
Plan your wedding easily with our free toolkit!EXPLORE FREE WEDDING PLANNING TOOLS

Featured Vendors

Wedding Florist
Fresh Weddings & Events
Hair and Makeup Artist
Blushing Brides Charleston
Charleston, South Carolina
Wedding Photographer
Maggie Braucher
Charleston, South Carolina
Wedding Venue
Kiawah Island Sanctuary Hotel & Resort
Charleston, South Carolina
Wedding Florist
Festoon Charleston
Charleston, South Carolina
Hair and Makeup Artist
Lashes And Lace
Charleston, South Carolina
Wedding Photographer
Aaron & Jillian Photography
Charleston, South Carolina
Wedding Florist
Pretty Petals of Charleston
Wedding Planner
MOD Events Charleston
Wedding Venue
Cannon Green
Milica Zarin
About The Author
Milica, a versatile content writer with a foundation in Italian studies and a passion for digital marketing, excels in crafting engaging pieces across various topics, with a particular flair for beauty, fashion, travel, and lifestyle subjects.
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