“Southern hospitality… it’s a feeling of being sincerely welcomed as a guest or a long lost friend; a way of life that lets people be as warm as the climate.” Bee Jackson

Long known for its charm and hospitality, Charleston, South Carolina is a destination that leaves its visitors feeling completely lost in time. The community has devoted itself to preserving its rich history and culture. leaving a dazzling array of antebellum homes lining the streets. It’s no surprise, Charleston is an idyllic wedding destination. 

Here are 5 questions every couple should ask before booking a venue in Charleston, South Carolina from a southern wedding planner. 

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#1 What is NOT included in the price of the venue?

The last thing couples want to hear one month before the wedding is, “By the way, there’s also a 15% fee on all rentals.” Everybody wants to know what’s included… however; a more valuable question to ask is, what is not included?  This is a good skill to note for many scenarios in life. Not only will you get more valuable information from this answer, it will save you from much unneeded stress during the final weeks leading up to your wedding. 

#2 Does the venue require a planner?

Because the nuances of each wedding are so extensive, some of the most elevated venues in Charleston require that their clients hire a personal wedding planner. This is a key question to ask any venue, ensuring your ability to secure your preferred wedding planner and designer. 

For example, Gadsden House is a venue in Charleston, South Carolina that requires their clients to have a wedding planner and provides a list of specific due dates. From catering to final walkthrough, Gadsden house has a checklist that you’ll want a planner to help you stay on top of.

#3 Is the venue in a convenient location for guests who are traveling?

A crucial part of the guest experience that often gets overlooked is the location of the venue. Are there hotels nearby that have the capacity for the size of your event? How far is the venue from the airport if guests will be flying in? If the guests have to drive to your event is there accessible parking on site or options for a valet?

For venues located on a larger property, it is important to ask if the venue will provide golf carts to escort the guests around the grounds.  

#4 If I plan to have a tented or al fresco reception, am I okay with the plan B option incase of rain?

Many venues in Charleston are tented or al fresco. However, you should always be fully prepared and pleased with whatever plan B option the venue has to offer incase of rain. Plan B might involve putting up side walls to the tent or moving to an indoor option. 

#5 Does the venue have any vendor requirements?

Some venues have a preferred vendor list that they require their clients to work with. If so, it is important to ask up front if this is a requirement and how the venue chooses who is on their preferred vendor list. For some couples, the ability to source their vendors is a determining factor in choosing their venue and ultimately, creating their dream wedding. Many couples would rather not be required to choose from  a small selection. 

Bonus Question: Do I need a venue? 

The sky is truly the limit for the couple who is willing to think outside the box. Working with the right planner allows you to explore ideas such as having your wedding on a private estate. Come back again soon for a follow up article on the beauty of having your wedding on a private estate.

Credits:

Photography:

Meredith Campbell Photography

Kelsey Halm Photography

Charleston, SC Venues:

The Gadsden House

Old Wide Awake Plantation

Other vendors pictured:

The Bearded Florist

EventWorks Rentals

Lashing and Lace

Alter-Image