Charleston, known for its timeless Southern charm, offers some of the most beautiful and romantic wedding venues in the country. With its cobblestone streets, moss-draped oaks, and serene rivers and waterfront views, Charleston stands as an ideal wedding destination. Whether you envision exchanging vows beneath moss-covered oaks, by the shimmering Ashley River, or under a floral-adorned sailcloth tent, Charleston wedding venues set the stage for an intimate yet extraordinary atmosphere.
Charleston’s luxury wedding venues stand out for their blend of historic elegance and personalized service. In a city brimming with beautiful streets and charming porches, the options for stunning wedding venues are endless. To help with your wedding planning, we’ve curated a list of the Top 10 Luxury Charleston Wedding Venues. From the classic sophistication of Lowndes Grove to the waterfront breezes at The Dunlin, these venues offer an exclusive, intimate setting where your wedding day will feel as unique as your love story.
1. Lowndes Grove Weddings
There is no better place to start our list of Charleston Wedding Venues than with Lowndes Grove! Built circa 1786, this a historic waterfront estate situated on the banks of the Ashley River in downtown Charleston. As the last great waterfront estate on the Charleston peninsula, it spans 14 acres and features a grand lawn, a glass-enclosed portico, and a 750-square-foot piazza overlooking the river and oak grove. The property also boasts a private dock extending 700 feet into the river, offering unparalleled coastal views.
Ideal for weddings, Lowndes Grove offers multiple event spaces, including the Main House, a formal dining room, and a grand lawn with a picturesque river backdrop. The venue’s historic charm, combined with modern amenities, provides a versatile setting for both intimate ceremonies and grand receptions. Couples and guests can also enjoy the scenic beauty of the Lowcountry, highlighted by panoramic sunsets along the waterfront.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 560 guests.
- Lowndes Grove Wedding Website
Event Spaces at Lowndes Grove:
- Main House: This grand residence boasts expansive windows that provide sweeping views of the river, creating a sophisticated atmosphere for both ceremonies and receptions.
- Grand Lawn: Overlooking the Main House, this spacious outdoor area can accommodate up to 500 guests, offering a perfect spot for large ceremonies or receptions with scenic river vistas.
- Piazza: A 750-square-foot covered porch overlooking the oak grove and river, perfect for guests to relax and enjoy the serene views.
- Portico: A glass-enclosed area connecting the Main House to the Grand Lawn, ideal for dining, dancing, or lounging with river views.
- Private Dock: Extending into the Ashley River, the private dock offers a unique spot for ceremonies or guest arrivals by boat.
2. William Aiken House Weddings
The William Aiken House, located at 456 King Street, is a historic 1807 mansion recognized as a National Historic Landmark. The property features private gardens, two spacious courtyards, and an elegant pergola with a reflection pool. Inside, the venue offers first and second-floor ballrooms, formal dining rooms, and a gentleman’s study, all adorned with museum-caliber artwork and antiques.
For weddings, the William Aiken House provides a blend of indoor and outdoor spaces, accommodating up to 500 guests. The lush gardens and courtyards are ideal for ceremonies and receptions, while the grand ballrooms offer an elegant setting for dancing and dining. The venue’s proximity to downtown Charleston allows guests to explore the city’s charm, enhancing the overall wedding experience.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 500 guests.
- William Aiken House Wedding Website
Event Spaces at the William Aiken House:
- The Main House: This classic Southern mansion features a grand formal dining room, stately parlors, and elegant ballrooms, offering a perfect backdrop for sophisticated wedding events.
- The Carriage House: A flexible space that provides an ideal location for a cocktail hour or more intimate receptions, with views of the property’s lush gardens.
- The Gardens: Beautifully manicured, these outdoor spaces offer a romantic and serene setting for ceremonies or garden parties.
- The Courtyards: Hidden away from the bustle, these private courtyards offer a peaceful area for pre-reception cocktails or intimate ceremonies.
3. Gadsden House Weddings
The Gadsden House is a meticulously restored Federal-style mansion located in downtown Charleston. The two-story venue features high ceilings, grand windows, and original architectural details, creating a refined atmosphere. The property includes a garden with mature oak trees and manicured lawns, providing a serene setting for outdoor ceremonies.
Ideal for weddings, the Gadsden House offers versatile spaces, including a grand staircase leading to the second-floor ballroom and a tranquil garden for intimate ceremonies. Its location in downtown Charleston allows guests to experience the city’s historic charm. The seamless blend of historic architecture and modern amenities ensures a memorable wedding experience.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 200 guests.
- Gadsden House Wedding Website
Event Spaces at the Gadsden House:
- The Main House: The expansive interior features high ceilings, grand windows, and period details that create a stunning backdrop for receptions or ceremonies.
- The Grand Ballroom: A beautifully restored ballroom with high ceilings, intricate moldings, and large windows that flood the space with natural light.
- The Courtyard Garden: Featuring mature oak trees and manicured lawns, this outdoor space is perfect for an intimate and peaceful ceremony or cocktail hour.
- The Terrace: A private terrace that offers views of the garden and can be used for receptions or an elegant outdoor dinner.
4. Legare Waring House Weddings
The Legare Waring House, located within Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site, is a historic venue surrounded by beautiful gardens and moss-draped oak trees. The two-story mansion features elegant suites, a fountain patio, and an oak-lined avenue leading up to the mansion, enhancing its romantic and natural setting.
For weddings, the Legare Waring House offers a private and intimate space, accommodating up to 200 guests outdoors. The venue provides two distinct areas for the couple to prepare, each offering elegant spaces that complement the overall aesthetic. Its timeless Southern charm and experienced event professionals ensure a flawless and memorable wedding celebration.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 200 guests.
- Legare Waring House Wedding Website
Event Spaces at Legare Waring House:
- The Main House: A spacious, open-plan interior that offers versatility, with large windows providing views of the surrounding gardens and outdoor spaces.
- The Lawn: A large, grassy expanse that is perfect for outdoor ceremonies, offering breathtaking views of the Magnolia Plantation.
- The Pergola: A charming outdoor structure that provides a romantic and intimate space for ceremonies, surrounded by the property’s lush landscape.
- The Courtyard: A secluded, landscaped area perfect for a cocktail hour or smaller gatherings.
5. Kiawah Island Resort Weddings
Kiawah Island Resort is a luxury destination located near Charleston, South Carolina, offering a variety of wedding venues. Options include oceanfront settings, garden venues, and the River Course at Kiawah Island Club, which features a 4,500-square-foot ballroom with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking ancient oaks and the Kiawah River.
The resort provides customizable wedding packages, including catering and decor, ensuring a stress-free and memorable experience. Its diverse venues and experienced staff cater to various wedding styles and sizes, making it a premier choice for couples seeking a luxurious and picturesque setting.
- Guest Capacity: Varies by venue, with some locations accommodating up to 300 guests.
- Kiawah Island Resort Wedding Website
Event Spaces at Kiawah Island Resort:
- The Ocean Course: A renowned golf course that provides a stunning backdrop for ceremonies, with views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- The Sanctuary Hotel: An upscale venue offering both indoor and outdoor spaces, including a grand ballroom and outdoor terraces with ocean views.
- The River Course: Located along the Kiawah River, this scenic venue offers expansive views of the water, perfect for outdoor ceremonies.
- The Beach Club: A private venue located along the beach, providing a casual yet elegant atmosphere for beachfront ceremonies and receptions.
6. The River House at Lowndes Grove
The River House at Lowndes Grove is a private, gated waterfront venue nestled between centuries-old live oak trees and the Ashley River. Located on the grounds of the historic Lowndes Grove estate, it offers an intimate space accommodating up to 100 guests. The open floor plan features French doors that open onto a brick terrace and manicured lawns.
Ideal for smaller weddings, the River House provides a scenic backdrop with sweeping river views and Low Country sunsets. The venue’s flexible indoor and outdoor spaces allow for personalized, all weather celebrations.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 120 guests
- The River House at Lowndes Grove Wedding Website
Event Spaces at River House at Lowndes Grove:
- The Main Room: An open-plan space with large windows and French doors leading to the terrace, ideal for an intimate reception or ceremony.
- The Terrace: A brick terrace with sweeping views of the river, perfect for outdoor receptions or cocktails.
- The Dock: The private dock at Lowndes Grove can be accessed from the River House, providing a unique and memorable entrance or ceremony spot.
7. The Dunlin
The Dunlin, nestled along the Kiawah River on Johns Island, offers an unparalleled riverside backdrop for intimate weddings. This coastal retreat, named after the local shorebird, invites couples to experience the rhythms of nature with marshland paths and sweeping river views. Its inviting, cottage-inspired aesthetic—featuring white-washed interiors and mint accents—makes for a serene and elegant atmosphere. With expansive porches overlooking the river, it’s the ideal spot to host an exclusive, bespoke event.
Beyond its natural beauty, The Dunlin’s thoughtful design and Southern hospitality create an unforgettable experience for weddings. Guests can enjoy the bounty of the land and sea, with dining options spotlighting local ingredients and Southern comfort foods. Whether hosting a small ceremony on the water’s edge or a breezy reception surrounded by the tranquil marshes, The Dunlin offers a perfect backdrop. This venue is a haven for couples looking for a relaxed, yet refined, celebration away from the bustle of city life.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 120 guests
- The Dunlin Wedding Website
Event Spaces at The Dunlin:
- The Shippon: A rustic barn-style venue with expansive windows offering stunning views of the surrounding fields.
- Lime House: A stylish venue with modern touches, perfect for intimate indoor receptions.
- Yarrow Field: A large, open outdoor space for ceremonies or receptions, with panoramic views of the property.
- The Orchard: A peaceful area that offers a natural and romantic backdrop for smaller ceremonies.
- The Pavilion: An elegant outdoor space, perfect for dining and dancing under the stars.
- The Poolside Lawn: Offers an open, natural setting for ceremonies with views of the pool and surrounding garden.
8. Canon Green
Canon Green offers a unique blend of rustic elegance and refined charm in the heart of Charleston. The venue is known for its historic courtyard, featuring beautiful brickwork and a stunning candlelit ambiance. The venue’s grand spiral staircase serves as a breathtaking entrance. Meanwhile, its versatile indoor and outdoor spaces provide couples with numerous options for their big day. Canon Green’s exposed brick walls and lush greenery create a warm and inviting atmosphere that effortlessly blends Charleston’s charm with modern luxury.
One of the standout features of Canon Green is its ability to host both intimate and large gatherings. The venue’s team works closely with couples to curate a customized experience, ensuring every detail aligns with their wedding vision.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 250 guests.
- Canon Green Wedding Website
Event Spaces at Canon Green:
- The Main Dining Room: A spacious indoor with exposed brick walls and large windows.
- The Courtyard: A beautifully landscaped outdoor space, ideal for cocktail hours or ceremonies, with views of the venue’s surrounding gardens.
- The Private Rooms: Intimate, smaller rooms that provide a cozy space for smaller receptions or gatherings.
- The Rooftop Terrace: A stunning outdoor space offering panoramic views of downtown Charleston, perfect for cocktail hours or receptions.
9. Zero George Street
Zero George Street is a boutique hotel that offers an intimate and stylish setting for couples looking for a more private wedding experience in Charleston. Located in the city’s historic district, the venue features a collection of beautifully restored buildings, including a charming courtyard and garden. The venue is known for its distinctive architecture and personalized service, offering a one-of-a-kind atmosphere for weddings. Couples can exchange vows in the peaceful garden, surrounded by lush greenery and historic charm, or host an intimate reception in one of the venue’s elegant rooms.
What makes Zero George Street unique is its combination of historic character and modern amenities, providing an elegant yet laid-back setting for smaller weddings. The boutique hotel’s intimate setting ensures a personalized experience for every couple.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 120 guests.
- Zero George Street Wedding Website
Event Spaces at Zero George Street:
- The Courtyard: A tranquil outdoor space surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for intimate ceremonies or cocktail hours.
- The Dining Room: A cozy, intimate indoor space perfect for receptions, with period architectural details and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
- The Patio: A charming space just outside the dining room, perfect for outdoor dining or cocktails with guests.
10. The Dewberry
No list of Charleston Wedding Venues would be complete without mentioning the Dewberry. In the heart of downtown, The Dewberry is one of Charleston’s most luxurious and stylish wedding venues. It offers a mix of mid-century modern design and Southern elegance. Located in a restored 1960s building, the hotel combines sleek, contemporary design with vintage charm. The venue’s rooftop bar offers unparalleled views of the city. It’s ideal for ceremonies or cocktail hours, while the interior event spaces feature luxurious finishes and timeless design.
The Dewberry’s attention to detail service makes it one of Charleston’s top venues for high-end weddings. The venue’s modern amenities and picturesque backdrop ensure a flawless wedding day, with every detail taken care of. From the stunning decor to the impeccable service, The Dewberry ensures that every wedding is memorable and unique.
- Guest Capacity: Up to 250 guests.
- The Dewberry Wedding Website
Event Spaces at The Dewberry:
- The Rooftop: Offering panoramic views of Charleston, this rooftop space is perfect for outdoor ceremonies or cocktail hours.
- The Ballroom: An elegant indoor venue with beautiful architectural details and modern touches, ideal for large receptions.
- The Library: A cozy and intimate space perfect for smaller, more private gatherings.
- The Courtyard: A serene and private outdoor space ideal for pre-ceremony cocktails or intimate receptions.
Luxury Charleston Wedding Venues
Inspired to plan your celebration at a Luxury Charleston Wedding Venue? I would be so thrilled to talk more about how we can beautifully capture your love story! To inquire, please click here or use the link below. Katie Trauffer Photography is based in Maryland and happily serves beautiful destinations world wide. She is particularly inspired by intimate, personal, garden inspired celebrations and cherishes every opportunity to return to her favorite Charleston Wedding Venues!
