7 of the Best Wedding Venues in America’s Charleston
Known for its historic charm, vibrant culture, classic architecture and breathtaking landscapes, Charleston is a beautifully classic coastal spot to get married. Loved for being the epitome of Southern charm and hospitality, you’re sure to be well looked after no matter where you pick as your venue. From cottage and grand house venues dotted along the coastline to lively hotels and historic buildings nestled within the downtown districts, there’s plenty to choose from to suit you.
Below we’ve listed 7 of our favourites to help get you inspired.
1. Merchants Hall
A beautifully restored wedding venue renowned for its elegant architecture and rich history, Merchants Hall provides a luxurious backdrop for weddings of all different styles and sizes. It’s grand interior boasts beautiful exposed brick walls, high ceilings, wooden beams, intricate detailing and stunning chandeliers, and it’s layout can be easily adapt to suit you. filled with lots of natural light and large windows, it’s an atmospheric spot during both the day and the evening as views of Charleston twinkle around you. It’s main hall is perfect for larger celebrations, whilst it’s smaller rooms lend themselves nicely to elopements or more intimate weddings.
Source: Merchants Hall
Source: Wedding Wire
2. Cannon Green
A seriously cool and sophisticated location both inside and out, Cannon Green is situated in the heart of Charleston and seamlessly blends historic charm with modern elegance. The building’s unique architecture features exposed brick walls, large windows and beautifully landscaped courtyards, encased within a modern and cool white and sage green facade. It can accommodate both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations, with the option of a lovely al fresco wedding venue in their charming courtyard, followed by a reception within the main central space. Bringing Southern hospitality through their dedicated in-house team, this venue beautifully balances effortless cool with real warmth.
Source: Emma Lili Photography
Source: Emma Lili Photography
3. Surcee’s
Tucked away in the heart of Charleston, the beautiful Surcee’s was a former confectionary in the 1900s known for creating sweet surprises. With interiors that combine authentic charm with modern elegance, it’s filled with an abundance of original features from exposed brick walls to preserved wooden floors. Their spacious indoor areas are light and bright with large windows that let the sun stream in, creating a warm and inviting space for both ceremonies and receptions. Their outdoor terrace also provides a picturesque backdrop for ceremonies, cocktail receptions and sundowner drinks, from where you can take in the bustling city below.
4. The Island House
Located on Daniel Island in Charleston, the grand Island House combines country charm and refined elegance beautifully. With its serene and picturesque setting overlooking the marshes and surrounded by manicured gardens, they have spacious event areas both inside and out to choose from. Exchange your vows on the scenic dock with tranquil waters and lush greenery as your backdrop, followed by a cocktail reception on their large outdoor terrace. For the reception, celebrate within their elegant ballroom complete with large light-filled windows that invite the outdoors in. The venue also collaborates with top local chefs to provide tailored menus that celebrate the flavours of Charleston, from locally sourced seafood to seasonal produce.
Source: Wedding Wire
Source: Wedding Wire
5. American Theater
A true Charleston landmark that opened back in 1942 as the area’s premier movie house, the American Theater is filled with rich history and charm. The venue has also formed the backdrop for a number of Hollywood movies, including as the location for Allie and Noah’s first date in The Notebook! The venue can host up to 200 guests within its spaces, with a 2,300 square foot grand ballroom at the centre of the building, a stylish cosy lounge with screen and projector, and a spacious main lobby for welcoming guests. They have an in-house culinary team who will work with you to craft menus to your taste through private consultations and tastings.
Source: John Apsey
Source: Richard Bell Photography
6. The Cottages on Charleston Harbor
Nestled along the charming Charleston coastline, the pretty Cottages on Charleston Harbor is a charming place for a serene and picturesque wedding. With elegant interiors featuring a classic coastal aesthetic, many of the rooms benefit from beautiful views of the harbour and nearby waterfront. The venue has both indoor and outdoor spaces available for the ceremony and reception, with the lush gardens and waterfront vistas forming a romantic backdrop. Couples can enjoy exclusive use of a cottage during their stay, along with spa services and gourmet dining options.
Source: Wedding Wire
Source: Charleston Wedding Guide
7. Lowndes Grove
Located on the banks of the Ashley River in Charleston, Lowndes Grove is a beautiful historic estate surrounded by lush gardens and picturesque waterfront views. Combining classic elegance with Southern charm, the venue has plenty of spaces both inside and out to celebrate your wedding. Say your I Do’s outside beneath the grand oak trees in their beautifully landscaped grounds, followed by a reception within their timelessly designed ballroom, which features large windows that allow the natural light to flood into the space. As the sun sets over the river, the venue’s enchanting atmosphere goes up a notch, with twinkling lights and candlelit tables coming to life and forming the backdrop to your wedding evening.
Source: Emma Lili Photography
Source: Wedding Wire
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