Charleston is SO hard to beat for a wedding. Moss-draped oaks, historic homes, harbor views, cobblestone streets… every corner of this city feels like a love story. If you’re just starting your search for Charleston wedding venues, it can feel like a lot (in the best way!). So as a Charleston wedding photographer, I put together a guide to some of my favorite spots around the Lowcountry, with what makes each one special, a price range for each, and a few things to know as you plan.
My Favorite Charleston Wedding Venues
1. Lowndes Grove
This 1786 historic home sits right on the Ashley River, just minutes from downtown Charleston. Think riverside ceremonies, cocktails on the lawn, and a gorgeous tented reception.
Good to know: Golden hour over the river is unreal. I always recommend saving time for portraits about 45 minutes before sunset.
Price range: Venue rental runs about $3,000-$14,000 depending on the day and season (spring and fall Saturdays are the top end). Friday through Sunday events also have a food and beverage minimum of about $8,000-$22,000.
2. William Aiken House
A beautifully restored 1807 home in the heart of downtown, with sparkling chandeliers, a courtyard with a reflecting pool, and a Gothic-style carriage house.
Good to know: You get indoor AND outdoor spaces, which makes for a really solid rain plan.
Price range: Venue rental is about $2,500-$12,000 depending on the day and season, plus in-house catering minimums of about $5,000-$24,000.
3. Runnymede
Tucked along the Ashley River, Runnymede is all centuries-old oaks and the romantic ruins of a Victorian home’s fireplace and chimney. Receptions usually happen under a clear tent – so dreamy at night.
Good to know: The ruins make the most incredible ceremony backdrop.
Price range: About $5,000-$8,500 for a single-day rental, or $12,500-$14,500 for a full week. Catering, tent, security and a planner are separate.
4. Legare-Waring House
This 1840s home sits inside Charles Towne Landing, the site of South Carolina’s first permanent English settlement. The oak-lined avenue and gardens give you endless photo spots.
Good to know: The grounds are big, so build a little extra time into your timeline for portraits around the property.
Price range: About $5,000-$10,000 depending on the day and season. Tent, catering and bar service are not included.
5. Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
Known for its sprawling gardens, Magnolia is a classic for couples who want a lush outdoor ceremony. The site also shares its history openly, including the history of the enslaved people who lived and worked there.
Good to know: The gardens change with the seasons, so ask what will be in bloom on your date.
Price range: About $3,000-$6,500 for a ceremony and reception, which includes 8 hours of event time.
6. The Cedar Room
Located in the historic Cigar Factory (built in 1881), The Cedar Room has high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, exposed brick, and original wood columns. It’s a great fit for bigger weddings.
Good to know: All that window light is a photographer’s DREAM.
Price range: Packages with in-house catering typically start around $30,000 for off-peak dates and $40,000 for peak dates.
7. The American Theater
A 1940s art deco movie theater on King Street! You can say your vows in the theater, dance in the checkerboard ballroom, grab a drink in the lounge, and see your names up on the marquee.
Good to know: Perfect for couples who want something fun, bold, and a little retro.
Price range: Ballroom rental runs about $1,500-$4,000, with food and beverage minimums of around $5,000 on Fridays and $8,000 on Saturdays.
8. Gibbes Museum of Art
For a more modern, artsy vibe, the Gibbes offers an indoor ceremony space with warm wood accents and a courtyard tent for the reception.
Good to know: An indoor cocktail hour means your guests stay comfortable no matter the weather.
Price range: About $2,250-$8,000 depending on the day, season and spaces you reserve.
9. The Cottages on Charleston Harbor
Just about five minutes from downtown in Mount Pleasant, these waterfront cottages sit right on Charleston Harbor. It feels quieter and more tucked away, with spots for your guests to stay on site.
Good to know: Having everyone in one place makes the whole weekend feel like a getaway.
Price range: About $1,500-$2,500 plus a $500 ceremony fee. You’ll also need to book at least 3 cottages for 3 nights.
10. Kiawah Island
About 45 minutes outside Charleston, Kiawah gives you ocean, river, and marsh views with resort-level service and privacy.
Good to know: This one sits on the higher end of the budget scale, but WOW is it a showstopper.
Price range: Pricing is quoted per wedding, so reach out to the resort for a custom quote. Expect it to be one of the highest-budget options on this list.
A Quick Note on Pricing
These price ranges are venue fees from 2026 listings, so they are a starting point, not your full budget. Most venues also add a service charge (often 20-23%), and catering, rentals, a planner, florals and all your other vendors are separate. Prices change often, so always confirm current rates with the venue directly!
Tips for Choosing Your Charleston Wedding Venue
- Ask about the rain plan before you fall in love.
- Check what time sunset is on your date – it shapes your whole timeline.
- Look for a great getting-ready space with good natural light.
- If your ceremony and reception are in different spots, plan for travel time (and Charleston traffic!).
Planning a Charleston wedding? I’d be SO honored to be part of it!! Let’s hop on a quick call and chat all about your day.
Comments +