Weddings FAQ
Q.: Where do I obtain a Marriage License?
A: Marriage licenses are available from the Charleston County Marriage License Division located at 100 Broad Street, Suite 469, phone: (843) 958-5183.
Q.: Where’s a great place to hold my wedding? How do I reserve a city park for my event?
A: Click here for the answer!
Charleston Wedding Locations
There are several beautiful city parks that you may decide to hold your Charleston Wedding. Here are a few of our favorite locations:
- White Point Gardens (Has a gazebo)
- Waterfront Park (Overlooking the Cooper River)
- Hampton Park (Has a gazebo)
- Washington Park (Very quaint, lots of Charleston charm)
- Angel Oak Park (Boasts the oldest living tree east of the Mississippi)
- Or, as a wonderful alternative, consider having your wedding on the beach! Kiawah Island, Folly Beach or Isle of Palms are ideal for beach weddings. A beach wedding will require a permit from the island, rather than from the City of Charleston
To reserve a park for your wedding, or any other event, you must
- Contact the City of Charleston Recreation Department at 843-724-7327.
- Verify the date is available.
- They will fax or mail an application for the event to be held at the park.
- For more information, contact Bernadette Brown or Barbara Taylor
Allow a few weeks for this process. Fees for the permit are based on the complexity of the event. Permits are subject to approval. By city ordinance, weddings held at the Waterfront Park or at White Point Gardens are limited to 25 people, in total, at the event. This includes the bride and groom.
Information provided by the City of Charleston Recreation Department.
Honeymoons and Romantic Escapes
There are some beautiful hotels, guest houses and apartments to rent in Charleston that will provide you with the comfort and luxury you need while on your honeymoon; but, you may also want to consider reserving a romantic getaway on Kiawah Island. It is just 30 minutes outside of downtown Charleston. You can reserve a cottage or villa that is beautifully styled in comfort and elegance. Many have ocean views or are close to the beach to keep your journey short and limit the time you spend traveling on your relaxing honeymoon. Another reason to spend time on the island is the super range of facilities that you have access to if you decide that the beach is not for you every day. You can choose from golf, tennis, hiking, boating, and even shopping. Then end up at one of the island’s restaurants to unwind and discuss your day.
Activities in Charleston
Charleston is steeped in history and no visit would be complete without taking in some of the sights and getting to know the history of the place. Middleton Place is a must visit attraction; it is the home of the oldest landscaped garden in America and the house museum has been recording the history of the Middleton family since 1755. The grounds include working stables and offer the opportunity to take part in treks through some amazing surrounding. There are several beautiful gardens to visit and opportunities to take part in the bus and walking tours to help you see as much of Charleston as possible.
Dining in Charleston
The last thing you want to do on your honeymoon is to cook, and taking your honeymoon in Charleston means even if you stay in a self catering apartment, there is no need to lift a single pan or open any cans. 82 Queen is tucked away in the French quarter of the city and offers fresh local cuisine in stunning surroundings. You could also combine dinner with amazing historic views and dine at the Middleton Place Restaurant The restaurant uses local organic produce and provides elegant surroundings that are well suited to a couple on their honeymoon.
Weddings
If you have visited Charleston before and have already fallen in love with the city then why not book your entire wedding there and employ some amazing people to take care of all of the details for you while you enjoy the surroundings. If you have your wedding in Charleston you can choose to have your day in a park or on the beach; don’t forget to check the number of guests you are allowed and whether you need a permit, especially in the parks.
Don’t Forget
When all the planning is over, and the wedding has gone superbly well, don’t forget to sit back and relax. Enjoy your honeymoon and your first time alone together as a married couple. By choosing Charleston as your honeymoon location you can decide whether to spend your time relaxing on the beach or soaking up the local atmosphere; whatever you choose to do, the area provides so many beautiful sites and activities, you will not regret booking Charleston as your honeymoon destination.