Let me set the scene: Live oaks dripping with Spanish moss, waterfront backdrops that look like a Nicholas Sparks novel (but with less drama), and architecture that makes you want to whisper just out of respect. South Carolina is not messing around when it comes to wedding venues.
Whether you’re planning an all-out wedding weekend or an intimate elopement, these ten venues offer that “wow” factor without feeling overly staged. I’ve curated this list with heart, an unhealthy obsession with great light, and big dreams (some of these I haven’t photographed at yet—so consider this my not-so-subtle pitch).
And here’s the thing—each of these venues has its own personality. Some are modern and refined, others are rooted in history and heritage. But all of them? All of them make space for real moments to unfold. And that’s what I look for as a photographer. The backdrop matters, but the energy matters more.
Let’s get into it.
The Most Beautiful Wedding Venues in South Carolina
The Dunlin, Auberge Resorts Collection — Kiawah River
Tucked away on the edge of Kiawah River, The Dunlin is new on the scene but already giving major elevated Southern elegance. Think: marsh views that go on for miles, live oaks with serious main character energy, and architecture that whispers, “This is timeless.”
The best part? It’s an Auberge property—aka, luxury with soul. Everything feels considered. Thoughtful. Like the kind of place where your photos breathe.
(Manifesting a wedding here. If you’re planning yours, let’s talk. Immediately.)
Kiawah Island Golf Resort — Kiawah Island
A classic. Iconic. The kind of place where ceremony options range from oceanfront lawns to charming chapels to ballrooms that feel like royalty-level glam. What I love most about Kiawah is the versatility. It can be chic and coastal, or Southern and traditional—and still feel entirely like you.
Bonus: Your guests will never stop talking about the weekend. Ever.
The Mansion at Rose Hill — Bluffton
The Mansion at Rose Hill is giving Bridgerton meets Lowcountry charm.
It’s got that Southern manor energy with columns for days, dripping chandeliers, and a sense of history that wraps around you like a silk shawl. The oak trees? Unreal. The light? Pure magic. It’s one of those places that makes you feel like time slowed down just for your vows.
I haven’t shot here yet—but it’s on my list.
Middleton Place — Charleston
Let’s not be shy: Middleton Place is stunning. The gardens go on forever. The views of the Ashley River are unreal. And every corner of this place looks like it was made to be photographed at golden hour.
There’s something about hosting your wedding in a place this historic that makes everything feel elevated. Like your day is part of something bigger.
Montage Palmetto Bluff — Bluffton
Ohhh Montage Palmetto Bluff. She’s the moment. The whole moment.
Luxury meets Southern charm in the most effortless way. You can arrive by boat, marry under Spanish moss, and dance the night away in a tented courtyard that feels like a scene from a movie. There’s a reason celebrities sneak off here to tie the knot.
Yes, it’s fancy. But it’s heart-first fancy. And that? That’s what I love most.
Hotel Hartness — Greenville
If you’re into modern elegance with a hint of Southern hospitality, Hartness is your spot. It’s got that clean, editorial look but still feels welcoming. A newer venue, but already turning heads (and stealing hearts).
Plus, it’s tucked away in Greenville, which is sneakily one of the best little wedding towns in the Southeast.
Hotel Domestique — Travelers Rest
This one’s for my mountain-view lovers. Hotel Domestique is where Euro charm meets South Carolina scenery. Inspired by European cycling culture (yes, really), this boutique hotel is moody in all the best ways. It’s luxe, it’s intimate, and it’s vibey.
I’ve photographed here and it never misses.
See NAME & NAME’s day at Hotel Domestique.
The Reserve at Lake Keowee — Sunset
One word: views. Like, unreal mountain-meets-lake kind of views.
The Reserve gives you that upscale lodge feel while still being warm and personal. Gorgeous stonework, lakefront ceremony options, and the kind of quiet that makes you feel like you’re the only people on the planet.
Photographing weddings here feels like breathing. Highly recommend.
The Cliffs — Various Locations in the Upstate
Let’s talk about The Cliffs. Technically seven different communities, but when it comes to weddings? I’m partial to Glassy.
There’s a literal chapel on a mountaintop. Glass walls. Insane light. Ceremony views that will have your guests audibly gasping. Pair that with a tented reception on the clubhouse lawn and you’ve got yourself a wedding that people will talk about for years.
And yes—I will climb things to get the perfect shot here. Happily.
Lowndes Grove — Charleston
This one’s a classic for a reason. Waterfront lawn. Historic white mansion. Oak trees that practically beg to be photographed.
Lowndes Grove has that Charleston magic—elegant but not stuffy, sophisticated but still full of soul. I’ve photographed here, and every single gallery ends up being one of my favorites.
There’s something about it that just works.
More Stunning Wedding Venues in South Carolina
Okay okay, I said 10, but I’d be remiss not to mention a few more that I love or have on my dream list:
- Agapae Oaks — I’ve photographed here before and the Spanish moss alone is enough to make you weep.
- Debordieu Club — Coastal Carolina dreams with major seaside charm.
- Caledonia Golf & Fish Club — Iconic trees + old-world charm. Would LOVE to shoot here.
Planning a wedding at one of these? Call me. Text me. Send a carrier pigeon. I’ll be there.
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Whether you’re looking for mountain views, waterfront vows, or something that just feels like home, South Carolina is overflowing with unforgettable places to say “I do.”
The hardest part? Picking just one.
But whatever venue you choose, what matters most is how it feels—how you feel—and who you’re surrounded by. These spaces are the canvas, but the people? They’re the masterpiece.
And if you want someone who sees both the beauty and the truth of your day? You know where to find me. Inquire about your wedding date.
