Charleston is one of the top destinations in the world for weddings + elopements. Colorful historic homes, cobblestone streets, waterfront views, oaks dripping with Spanish Moss… the beauty of the South is unmatched. Luckily, getting married in Charleston is relatively simple.
HOW TO GET MARRIED IN CHARLESTON SC
Applying for Your Marriage License
Currently, all applications for marriage licenses in Charleston are being done electronically. You will need to click here to start the application process.
Please be sure to provide the email address for each party and only apply ONCE.
What You Need To Obtain A Marriage License in Charleston County
- IDs or current passports
- Proof of social security number
- $70 plus credit card processing fees
There is a mandatory 24-hour waiting period after the online application has been filed before the Marriage License in released – so please plan accordingly.
Two business days after the completed application is received, you will receive the Marriage License by email to print, along with an instruction sheet. Be sure to check your Marriage License for accuracy and email the court to notify them of any errors.
This Marriage License is valid only for marriages performed in person in South Carolina.
You Can Be Married By…
- Officiant, Minister of the Gospel
- South Carolina Notary
WHERE TO STAY + GET READY
- Private AirBNB
- Zero George
- Planter’s Inn (St. Philip Suite… the BEST for getting ready photos)
- The Dewberry
- Hotel Emeline
POPULAR ELOPEMENT LOCATIONS IN CHARLESTON
There are so many places to elope in Charleston! If it is a traditional elopement with just you (the couple) and an officiant, we can easily find a quiet spot downtown for you two to say “I do!” If you’re having guests, you may want to consider renting a space – and potentially chairs for your guests. Some of the most popular places for Charleston elopements are:
- White Point Gardens aka Battery Park
- Hampton Park
- Washington Square
- Wentworth Mansion – they include 1 hour of photography in their elopement package, but will omit that if you’ve already secured a photographer (me – hint hint!)
- Boone Hall – please call for current rates
- Magnolia Plantation – currently charges $750 for elopements
- Middleton Place – requires $500 donation to Middleton Place Foundation, which also comes with a one year membership
- Hotel Emeline
- Hotel Bennett
- The Dewberry
Two of the city parks (White Point Gardens and Hampton Park) have covered gazebos that can be reserved through the city’s website here. The plantations + hotels all have a fee to use their property, as well as date/time restrictions for elopements. These locations will require a little more planning. Please contact them directly for their most updated pricing.
WHERE TO CELEBRATE
After eloping, you may want to celebrate with a nice dinner in downtown Charleston. Some of my favorite local places are:
- Hall’s Chophouse
- 82 Queen
- Oak Steakhouse
- Circa 1886
- High Cotton
- Husk
- Charleston Grill
- Zero Restaurant + Bar
WHAT TO WEAR
While I am all for comfort, this is your wedding day – and if there’s any day for you to look + feel your best, THIS. IS. IT!! Want to wear the classic wedding dress and/or black tuxedo of your dreams? Go for it! Feeling a little more funky? A jumpsuit might be up your alley! Floral gowns, short dresses, printed suits, pant suits, fun heels, feather detailing, sequins, velvet driving shoes, fresh Jordans, wearing colors + patterns instead of a traditional bridal look?! Let’s do it! This is YOUR day to shine as a couple – so whatever will make you feel the BEST is what I recommend wearing!
EXTRAS
Some couples may want to invest in some other things for their wedding day. Bouquets, boutonnieres, hair + makeup, a small cake, rentals, floral installments, champagne… elopements can be as simple or as extravagant as you’d like! I regularly work with some of the best wedding vendors in the business and am happy to connect you with them to make your dream elopement come to life!
If you’re ready to start planning your elopement in Charleston, SC – please give me a call! I’m happy to help you plan the best day for you guys!
