Congratulations on your engagement! Now comes the fun part… finding the perfect venue in one of America’s most romantic cities.

I’ve been working with couples in Charleston for years, and honestly, you couldn’t have picked a better place to say “I do.” This city has something special that makes every wedding feel like a fairytale.

Charleston venues for weddings range from intimate garden spaces to grand waterfront estates. Some will make your heart skip a beat, others might not be worth the investment. Let me share the venues that consistently deliver unforgettable experiences.

Why Charleston Weddings Are Simply Extraordinary

Here’s what makes Charleston different from other wedding destinations.

The weather cooperates most of the year (though summer can be intense). The food scene is absolutely incredible. Plus, every corner of this city looks like it was designed for celebration.

But what really sets Charleston apart? The vendors here truly understand weddings. I’ve worked with teams in other cities who just go through the motions. Charleston professionals genuinely care about making your day perfect.

The Southern hospitality isn’t just a marketing line. People here take pride in creating magical moments for couples.

You can have a dreamy garden ceremony surrounded by ancient oaks, an elegant ballroom reception with crystal chandeliers, or a sunset beach celebration with waves as your soundtrack. Charleston delivers on every vision.

Stunning Outdoor Charleston Venues for Weddings

1. The Sandcastle Kiawah Island

Website: kica.us/sandcastle
Address: 23 Beachwalker Drive, Kiawah Island, SC 29455
Phone: (843) 768-9194

This oceanfront gem captures coastal elegance without feeling touristy. The beachfront lawn during golden hour? Absolutely breathtaking.

I’ve watched couples exchange vows here with nothing but dunes and endless ocean behind them. It’s the kind of backdrop that makes everyone reach for their phones.

Just a heads up, the ocean breeze can be strong, so warn your hairstylist. Walking the boardwalk in heels takes some practice too.

The resort setting means you might have golfers nearby, but honestly, most guests are respectful of ceremonies.

This venue comes with a premium price tag. But if oceanfront elegance is your vision, the investment pays off in unforgettable memories.

2. Middleton Place

Website: middletonplace.org
Address: 4300 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414
Phone: (843) 556-6020
Email: sgs@middletonplace.org

Middleton Place feels like stepping into a historic movie set. The formal gardens are absolutely stunning, especially in spring when everything blooms.

The Butterfly Lakes ceremony spot offers incredible photo opportunities. Those ancient oak trees create natural cathedral ceilings that are simply magical.

One thing to consider: it can get breezy near the water. Your florist will know how to secure arrangements, but it’s worth mentioning.

Book early for this one. Spring dates fill up months in advance, and for good reason.

Timeless Historic Charleston Venues for Weddings

3. The William Aiken House

Image by The William Aiken House

Website: www.pphgcharleston.com
Address: 456 King St, Charleston, SC 29403
Phone: (843) 853-1810

This King Street mansion embodies old Charleston elegance. Walking through those front doors, you immediately feel the history and grandeur.

The private gardens create an intimate ceremony space, while the piazzas are perfect for cocktail hour. Your guests will love exploring the different levels and rooms.

Since it’s right on King Street, you’ll hear some traffic noise during quiet moments. Most couples don’t mind, but it’s worth knowing.

The two ballrooms give you flexibility for different reception styles. The staff here really knows their stuff and handles events beautifully.

4. The Gadsden House

Website: gadsdenhouse.com
Address: 38 Alexander St, Charleston, SC 29401
Phone: (843) 737-4281

The Gadsden House combines historic charm with fresh, modern touches. Those whitewashed walls and soaring ceilings create such bright, airy spaces.

The natural light here is photographer’s dream. Every room glows beautifully throughout the day.

This venue works best for more intimate celebrations. If you’re planning a huge guest list, you might feel cramped. But for 100 guests or fewer? It’s absolutely perfect.

For our full in-depth guide to the Gadsden House Charleston SC, check out this post.

Breathtaking Waterfront Charleston Venues for Weddings

5. The Cedar Room

Website: thecedarroom.com
Address: 701 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29403
Phone: (843) 793-4103

The Cedar Room is seriously cool. It’s housed in an old cigar factory, so you get those gorgeous exposed brick walls alongside stunning waterfront views.

This industrial meets romantic vibe sets it apart from typical Charleston venues. Some couples want something different from the traditional Southern aesthetic, and this delivers perfectly.

Just remember, it’s on the second floor. Keep that in mind for elderly guests or anyone with mobility concerns.

The combination of historic architecture and harbor views creates an atmosphere that’s both dramatic and intimate.

6. The Ocean Course

Website: kiawahresort.com
Address: 1000 Ocean Course Dr, Kiawah Island, SC 29455
Phone: (800) 654-2924

The views at The Ocean Course are absolutely spectacular. You’re positioned right at the island’s edge with nothing but dunes, ocean, and endless sky.

I’ve witnessed ceremonies here where the natural beauty literally took guests’ breath away. The lighting during golden hour is phenomenal.

This venue represents a significant investment. It’s one of Kiawah’s premier locations, and pricing reflects that exclusivity.

Also factor in the drive time from downtown Charleston. It’s worth it, but plan accordingly for your timeline.

If windswept coastal elegance matches your vision, The Ocean Course delivers in every way.

Intimate and Unique Charleston Venues for Weddings

7. The Historic Rice Mill

Website: www.holycityhospitality.com
Address: 17 Lockwood Dr, Charleston, SC 29401
Phone: (843) 723-7952

The Historic Rice Mill offers something really special. Those sweeping harbor views change throughout the day, and sunset ceremonies here are absolutely magical.

The blend of industrial history with waterfront elegance creates a unique atmosphere. You’ll get incredible city skyline photos that capture Charleston’s character perfectly.

This venue photographs beautifully from every angle. The combination of textures and views gives you so many options for memorable shots.

8. Cannon Green

Website: cannongreencharleston.com
Address: 103 Spring St, Charleston, SC 29403
Phone: (843) 817-6299

Cannon Green is having a moment right now, and deservedly so. The greenhouse dining area feels like dining in a garden while staying protected from weather surprises.

This venue successfully blends modern design with Charleston charm. Not every couple wants the ultra traditional Southern wedding, and this offers a fresh alternative.

The courtyard ceremony space is lovely, though it accommodates smaller guest lists better than massive celebrations.

Grand Charleston Venues for Large Celebrations

9. Lowndes Grove

Website: www.pphgcharleston.com
Address: 266 St Margaret St, Charleston, SC 29403
Phone: (843) 853-1810

In my opinion, Lowndes Grove represents the pinnacle of Charleston wedding venues. If you want full Southern grandeur, this estate delivers magnificently.

Those massive oak trees are absolutely ancient and create natural ceremony spaces that feel sacred. The waterfront lawn easily accommodates large guest lists without feeling crowded.

This venue handles big celebrations exceptionally well. Many venues claim they can do large weddings, but Lowndes Grove actually has the space and infrastructure to pull it off flawlessly.

Yes, it’s expensive. But if budget allows and you want that iconic Charleston plantation feel, this is your venue.

For a deep dive on Lowndes Grove, read this guide.

How to Choose Your Perfect Charleston Wedding Venue

Let me share some real advice that most people won’t give you.

First, be completely honest about your guest count. I’ve seen too many couples try to squeeze 150 people into spaces designed for 100. Everyone ends up uncomfortable.

Second, seriously consider the season. Charleston summers are brutally hot and humid. If you’re set on summer, choose venues with excellent air conditioning or solid backup plans.

Third, think about your photography. Your wedding photos are what you’ll treasure forever. Some venues simply photograph better than others due to lighting and layout.

Ask about every possible fee upfront. Setup charges, cleanup fees, vendor fees… they add up quickly and can surprise you.

Most importantly, visit venues in person. Photos online can be misleading, and you need to feel the energy of each space.

Want some fun things to do in Charleston for couples while you scout the venue? Snag our guide.

Ready to Plan Your Charleston Wedding?

Charleston offers some of the most beautiful wedding venues in the country. Each location on this list has proven itself through countless celebrations and happy couples.

The key is matching your vision with the right venue’s personality. Whether you dream of oceanfront elegance, historic grandeur, or modern sophistication, Charleston has your perfect setting.

Take your time visiting these venues. Ask lots of questions. Trust your instincts about which space feels right for your celebration.

Your Charleston wedding is going to be absolutely incredible. This city has a way of making every couple feel like royalty on their special day.

Ready to start planning? Contact these venues directly to schedule tours and check availability. Your perfect Charleston wedding venue is waiting for you.

If your looking for a wedding photographer Charleston, (Thin Spaces Wedding) click on the link and let’s create something incredible.