Charleston, South Carolina — a city with a rich history and culture, the perfect merging of Southern hospitality and modern, forward-thinking people. It offers art, fashion, theater, and, of course, truly heavenly food. (Oysters anyone?)  

Charleston is one of my favorite southern cities and also the place where my dearest friend Ciera, happened to get married last spring. She and her husband Brayden hosted their wedding at the Gibbes Museum of Art and I will tell you — it was nothing short of spectacular. 

Read on for more details about their absolutely gorgeous wedding and hosting your own destination wedding in Charleston, South Carolina. 

Ciera and Brayden’s Destination Wedding in Charleston, SC

The Couple

I can’t write about Ciera and Brayden’s wedding without talking about what an absolutely crucial part of my life and my business Ciera is. Ciera is my best friend; you’ve probably seen her many appearances on my Insta-feed. Beyond being one of my favorite humans, she is also a huge part of Lindley Battle Photography; she photographs weddings, runs the day-to-day operations behind the scene, and is my absolute right-hand-women. 

She and Brayden met in college and have been together ever since. Brayden is amazing and I could think of no one more perfect for my best friend. He is so perfect in fact, that he even planned a to-die-for engagement in NYC. 

The Welcome Dinner

Ciera and Brayden held their welcome dinner at Leon’s Fine Poultry & Oyster Shop, which is a super popular, incredibly delicious, oyster spot just outside of the historic district. Lauded by Travel & Leisure, Conde Nast, and the New York Times, among others, Leon’s offers a laid-back, delightful culinary experience housed in an old body shop. The vibe is super cool and the food is incredible, making it a great place to host a welcome dinner for all of their out-of-town guests. 

Everything was oyster themed and the stunning linens were provided by BBJ La Tavola.

The evening began with an intimate rehearsal dinner for the wedding party and close family. It featured a delicious shrimp boil and farm-to-table vegetables. The party later expanded into a breezy, laid-back welcome dinner for all guests with shuck-your-own-oysters and delicious local cocktails. 

Leon’s was the perfect spot to introduce out-of-town guests to the culture and vibe that Charleston offers. 

The Wedding

Getting Ready

Ciera got ready in her mother’s Airbnb which was a perfect, intimate spot. Her right-hand gal was Elliot, who is Brayden’s niece and the flower girl for the wedding. And her close group of girlfriends was there for support throughout the morning. Cali Stott Artistry did a magnificent job creating Ciera’s simple, yet unique, up-do. 

Ciera’s gown was found at my favorite bridal shop, Ladies of Lineage in Charlotte. Created by British designer Suzanne Neville, the dress was the perfect combination of classic with some great edgy details (like the accordion flutter sleeves). 

The Ceremony

Both the ceremony and the reception were held at the Gibbes Museum of Art in the historic district. The beaux arts building is well over a century old and showcases an impressive collection of both classical and modern art. 

The ceremony was held in the museum’s Tiffany-style art glass dome and the space was generously decorated with florals designed by Le Petit Bloom, a Charlotte-based florist with an impeccable eye for creations that are completely unique and completely stunning. 

The Reception

Following the ceremony, a simple and relaxed cocktail hour was held in front of the art museum. To kick off the reception, a saxophonist led the entire party to the back of the museum in the Lenhardt Garden, a meticulous European-style garden. The reception was set up under a tasteful sail tent complete with farm-style tables and more of Le Petit Bloom’s elaborate and whimsical floral installations. 

One of my favorite details was the escort card wall which was hand-built by Brayden’s father and was the most gorgeous way to incorporate some more florals into the design. 

The evening was a perfect, breezy Charleston affair, the couple the absolute embodiment of style and class. 

Hosting Your Own Wedding in Charleston, SC

Charleston has my vote anytime you ask where a great domestic wedding location is.  Charleston has everything.  It has art, great food, and a sense of fashion that rivals the major cities. It has deep south vibes with a progressive focus and truly, it is just a romantic city. 

Why a Destination Wedding in Charleston, SC Is a Fantastic Idea

A destination wedding in Charleston, SC is the perfect option for the couple wanting a seaside location but with great culture and interesting history — and without the sand-in-your-toes kinda vibe. Charleston isn’t a beach town but it is a port city meaning you get the great climate and the fresh seafood, which always a plus in my book. 

Charleston is also an easy location for your guests to travel — no passport is needed and it has a great airport. Plus, your guests are going to love exploring the city and enjoying all that it has to offer. 

Best Time to Get Married in Charleston

With its subtropical climate, Charleston is a beautiful city any time of year. Ideally the best times for a destination wedding in Charleston would be the fall, winter, or spring.

The winters are mild and pleasant and it is a great time to escape the cold northern winters. 

The spring and fall are especially wonderful with the beautiful tropical blooms and the many lively events that take place around the city. The temperatures are moderate and the rain isn’t as persistent as it is in the summer. 

Summer is possibly the least ideal time of year. The climate becomes more humid and the crowds become larger; not to mention it is the rainiest time of the year.

 

What Type of Venues Do You Find in Charleston?

Charleston offers a wide range of wedding venues. From historic churches, ornate gardens, luxury hotels and, of course, the Gibbes Museum of Art, there is such a wide range of beautiful places that are sure to make a statement for your wedding.  

I’d love to hear more about your plans for a destination wedding in Charleston, SC.