by Anne Stjern

Created on: April 26, 2010   Last Updated: April 28, 2010

Romantic Southern Settings for Weddings and Receptions

The combination of natural beauty, history and romance that is Charleston, South Carolina creates the perfect backdrop for a bride's most important day. The lure of exchanging vows amidst Live Oaks and formal gardens brings couples to the city year around, making Charleston one of the most popular wedding venues in the U.S.

The historic port city offers brides and wedding planners a rich selection of locations to suit a range of themes and budgets. Whether it be a restored former rice plantation or a grand home or a secluded private garden, the possibilities for a perfect Charleston outdoor wedding and reception are boundless.

A Glimpse Into the Past

Lowndes Grove Plantation
266 Saint Margaret Street
Charleston, SC 29403-3561
(843) 853-1810
www.patpropllc.com

Nestled along the banks of the Ashley River on the Charleston peninsula, Lowndes Grove is a nod to the Southern charm, hospitality and elegance of an earlier time. The lush 14-acres with its expansive lawns and riverfront walkways are the perfect setting for a nuptial celebration.

The plantation house, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, has undergone a number of transformations and expansions since it was established in the late 1700s including a complete renovation in 2008. The property also operates as a bed and breakfast with five rooms available for overnight guests.

Middleton Place
4300 Ashley River Road
Charleston, SC 29414
(843) 556-6020 (800) 782-3608
www.middletonplace.org

The exquisitely manicured grounds of the country's oldest landscaped gardens is located about 30-minutes from downtown Charleston. Popular sites for exchanging vows include the intimate secret garden, under the branches of the century-old Middleton Oak, and at the edge of plantation's famous butterfly lakes.

A spacious Pavilion is available for reception festivities under cover. Middleton Place Restaurant is located on the plantation grounds and a fully modern 50+ room hotel, The Inn at Middleton Place, is adjacent to the property. Middleton Place is a National Historic Landmark.

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
3550 Ashley River Road
Charleston, SC 29414
(800) 367-3517
www.magnoliaplantation.com

Middleton's neighbor along the Ashley, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens has been open to the public since 1870. Founded in 1676, 100 years before the American Revolution, the property has been continuously owned and cared for by the Drayton family throughout its history.

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