2026 Top Wedding Destinations From A Destination Wedding Planner - Charleston, SC
An intimate event or elegant wedding is far more than just a celebration that takes place in your favorite location. It’s a timestamped memory tied to a setting that becomes part of your love story. Whether it’s a sun-filled beach, serene countryside, or a historic coastal city, your wedding destination sets the tone for the entire experience and elevates every moment with meaning and beauty.
Just a scenic coastal drive from popular Savannah wedding venues, Charleston, South Carolina is a tasteful town full of rich history, vibrant culture, and undeniable southern charm. It’s no wonder so many couples are drawn to Charleston wedding venues when searching for the perfect setting to say "I do." As seasoned destination wedding planners, we had to experience the city’s magic for ourselves and share our favorite spots for hosting your dream wedding weekend.
Top Charleston Wedding Venues
From the misty mountains of Highlands, NC to the cityscapes of Boston, MA, our team has explored it all, but Charleston continues to be a standout for couples seeking a romantic, versatile destination.
Whether you’re dreaming of a historic downtown mansion or a waterfront estate under the oaks, Charleston offers some of the best Lowcountry wedding venues for every kind of celebration.
William Aiken House: If elegance and a downtown location are top priorities, the William Aiken House wedding experience is unmatched. This 1807 mansion features grand ballrooms, private gardens, and sweeping piazzas right on Upper King Street and it can host up to 500 guests across its picturesque grounds.
Lowndes Grove: For a classic Southern backdrop, Lowndes Grove is a favorite among Charleston wedding planners and couples alike. As a National Register Historic Place, the Lowndes Grove wedding experience includes 14 acres of waterfront property, 18th-century architecture, and endless Ashley River views. It’s ideal for everything from coastal casual weddings to extravagant, elegant affairs.
Parcel 32: Perfect for a rehearsal dinner or welcome party, Parcel 32 offers flexible, stylish space in the heart of downtown. With a spacious bar and velvet banquettes downstairs, plus an intimate upstairs dining room, it’s ideal for transitioning from formal dinner to cocktail celebration.
Cannon Green: With a private courtyard for ceremonies and the chic Trolley Room for receptions, Cannon Green weddings strike the perfect balance of Southern elegance and modern charm. The space allows you to infuse your own style while enjoying classic Charleston vibes. If you are looking for a little inspiration, check out one of my visits here with Savannah based photographer, Anneliese Gabriele.
The Dunlin – Auberge Resorts, Johns Island: For couples open to destination wedding venues near Charleston, Auberge Resorts Collection, The Dunlin offers a fresh perspective. The River Barns and outdoor fields is a versatile location for all of the events hosted here. The largest space called The Shippon, holding up to 600 as well as the smaller Lime House, open up to The Riverbank event lawn that overlooks the marsh and allows the perfect indoor outdoor feel to every event. The two buildings have fresh concrete flooring, exposed beams, black iron window frames and fixtures that are simply yet intentional.
For an all encompassing wedding weekend itinerary, we often love when our destination weddings in Charleston SC stay in the historic downtown area and host their rehearsal dinner and welcome parties here. Parcel 32 and Cannon Green are still among our favorites for this due to their intimate spaces that can then grow with the group. To get the best of both worlds, have an elegant wedding ceremony along the water at Lowndes Grove or The Dunlin.
Where to Stay: Wedding Weekend Accommodations in Charleston
Charleston is home to many top-tier accommodations perfect for your guests, whether they’re craving ocean views or downtown walkability.
The Dunlin: With just 72 guest rooms, they offer a peaceful feel and a cottage-inspired aesthetic with stylish interiors by designer Amanda Lindroth. Each room has generous porches that are the perfect place to enjoy the expansive riverfront views. This is the perfect setting to truly unwind, but again about 45 minutes away from Charleston on Johns Island.
The Dewberry: For those looking to stay in the historic downtown Charleston so that you can easily walk from place to place, then The Dewberry is one of our favorite places to stay. Right outside of Marion Square, The Dewberry offers some of the highest levels of luxury within each room - from custom designed Stickley armoires with the Dewberry’s signature botanical pattern, bathrooms wrapped in danby, Vermont marble and the mattresses imported from Ireland. With a house car, complimentary bikes and a spa located on property, they really make sure they are answering your every need right away.
The Charleston Place: For a classic Condé Nast Traveler’s 2024 Gold List 5-star staple in Charleston, look no further than to find The Charleston Place. Just steps from some of the city’s best shops, the City Market, antique stores, museums, historic sites, and art galleries, this hotel is so much more than a place to sleep. Although you will sleep quite comfortably in their plush bedding with city views from your room, they also offer a full-service award-winning European spa and salon, a fully equipped health club with a sauna, and a jacuzzi. The undisputed jewel in the hotel's crown is a swimming pool located on the rooftop of the fourth floor - featuring a stunning retractable glass roof, you will feel like you are standing on top of the world.
Things to Do During Your Wedding Weekend
Whether you're planning a multi-day event or a quick weekend celebration, Charleston has no shortage of charm to entertain your guests.
Historic landmarks: Just by strolling through town, be sure to check out Waterfront Park and Rainbow Row, a series of 13 captivating bright colors houses along Charleston’s East Bay Street or stroll through City Market to chat with some local artisans.
Gibbes Museum of Art: For those who are interested in art, then the Gibbes Museum of Art should be on the list. The Gibbes is not a huge museum (you could walk through it in under an hour), but as a whole their paintings tell a Charleston story. A pastel portrait dated 1711 created by America’s first known female artist, ornate silver monogrammed teapots hammered with palmetto imagery for a wealthy Antebellum patron, watercolors and etchings from Charleston’s 1920s and 1930s artistic “renaissance,” sweetgrass pieces fashioned by Gullah weavers, and so much more reside here.
Beach escapes: If your guests have a little more time to explore, then even heading out to one of Charleston’s beaches could be a great way to spend the day. Sullivan’s Island Beach, Folly Beach, or Isle of Palms are some great spots to check out!
For the optimal Lowcountry wedding weekend experience, we love building in optional group activities for your guests. A sunset cruise out on the harbor could be a special and unique way to see the city, or maybe a carriage or walking tour will highlight the architecture, food or history of this incredible city. Small group activities like candle making at the Charleston Candle Co give your guests something to take home and remember your weekend by. There is also nothing wrong with setting aside some relaxation time on your wedding weekend with a spa day at either Hotel Bennett or our favorite, The Sanctuary Spa at Kiawah Island Resort.
Where to Eat in Charleston
Charleston is full of southern cuisine, with just the right amount of comfort and seafood options. When it comes to dining, the cobblestone streets are filled with restaurants and experiences that you won’t want to miss.
With Charleston’s fresh seafood, world-famous and James Beard Award-winning chefs, and new restaurants popping up all the time looking to put their own spin on the South’s famous cuisine, you can’t go wrong eating in Charleston.
Leon’s Oyster Shop – A must-visit for fried chicken and oysters in a laid-back, rustic-chic setting.
Melfi’s – Upscale Italian fare from the same team behind Leon’s.
HUSK – James Beard Award-winning, locally sourced seasonal menus.
FIG – Known for pure, ingredient-driven dishes in an approachable fine dining setting.
Why Charleston is a Dream Destination Wedding Location
If you’re looking for a venue that blends old-world elegance with relaxed coastal beauty, Charleston delivers on all fronts. It’s ideal for couples working with a destination wedding planner who want to host their event in a place that feels personal, timeless, and full of heart.
With some of the best Charleston wedding venues, iconic landmarks, acclaimed restaurants, and charming hotels, this city checks every box. Let this be the year you turn your dream into a destination.
Let’s Plan Your Destination Wedding
Ready to explore Charleston or another unforgettable location? Whether you’re considering a romantic estate in Savannah, seaside views in New England, or a destination wedding in Charleston, SC, we’re here to help couples create one-of-a-kind experiences, all with heart, intention, and style.
Let’s elevate your celebration.Get in touch with our destination wedding planners.
